Growing up, Mediterranean Meatloaf with Garlic Herb Sauce was a dish my mom would make for special occasions. The warm, comforting aroma would fill our house, instantly making my mouth water. I can still remember the first time I tried her homemade version – the tender, flavorful meatloaf paired with the creamy, garlicky sauce was an absolute revelation. From that moment on, it became one of my all-time favorite meals. Whenever I smell the blend of oregano, basil, and garlic, it transports me right back to my childhood kitchen. That’s why this Mediterranean Meatloaf with Garlic Herb Sauce recipe will always hold a special place in my heart.
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Why This Mediterranean Meatloaf with Garlic Herb Sauce Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Mediterranean Meatloaf with Garlic Herb Sauce
The secret to making this Mediterranean Meatloaf with Garlic Herb Sauce recipe so mouthwatering lies in the carefully curated blend of spices and the rich, creamy sauce. The combination of oregano, basil, coriander, and cumin adds layers of authentic Mediterranean flavor, while the Parmesan cheese and heavy cream create an indulgent, velvety sauce that complements the meatloaf perfectly. Plus, the use of panko breadcrumbs gives the meatloaf an incredibly tender, almost fluffy texture that sets it apart from traditional dense meatloaves. When you take that first bite, the flavors and textures simply melt in your mouth – it’s pure comfort food bliss.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
The key ingredients that make this Mediterranean Meatloaf with Garlic Herb Sauce so delicious are:
- 1 pound ground beef: This forms the base of the meatloaf, providing a hearty, satisfying texture.
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs: The panko adds lightness and ensures the meatloaf doesn’t become dense or dry.
- 2 eggs, beaten: The eggs act as a binder, helping to hold the meatloaf together.
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion: The onion lends sweet, savory notes that complement the other flavors.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic is essential for building the Mediterranean flavor profile and creating the irresistible garlic herb sauce.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano and 1 teaspoon dried basil: These dried herbs are the foundation of the Mediterranean seasonings.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander and 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin: These warm, earthy spices add subtle complexity.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The cream makes the sauce lusciously rich and creamy.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: The Parmesan cheese adds a salty, umami punch to the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: The fresh parsley brightens up the dish with its vibrant, herbaceous flavor.
Step-by-Step Mediterranean Meatloaf with Garlic Herb Sauce Instructions
Preparing Your Mediterranean Meatloaf with Garlic Herb Sauce
This Mediterranean Meatloaf with Garlic Herb Sauce recipe is easy to prepare, with a total time of 65 minutes (15 minutes of prep and 50 minutes of cook time). You’ll need a mixing bowl, a loaf pan, and a saucepan to bring this dish to life.
1- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, panko breadcrumbs, beaten eggs, chopped onion, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, ground coriander, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands to gently mix the ingredients together until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
2- Preheat your oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and transfer the meatloaf mixture into it, shaping it into a compact loaf.
3- Bake the meatloaf for 50 minutes, or until it’s cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
4- While the meatloaf is baking, prepare the garlic herb sauce. In a saucepan, whisk together the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and chopped fresh parsley. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly and the flavors meld, about 5-7 minutes.
5- Once the meatloaf is done, let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve the meatloaf warm, drizzled with the creamy garlic herb sauce.
6- Enjoy this comforting and flavorful Mediterranean Meatloaf with Garlic Herb Sauce, which serves 6 people, as the star of your next family dinner or cozy weekend meal.
Pro Tips for Success
- For the best texture, be sure not to overmix the meatloaf ingredients. Gently combine them until just combined to avoid a dense, tough meatloaf.
- To prevent the meatloaf from drying out, baste it with the garlic herb sauce halfway through the baking time. This will keep it moist and flavorful.
- Adjust the baking time if your meatloaf is a different size or shape. The internal temperature should reach 160°F to ensure it’s fully cooked.
- For maximum flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese in the sauce. The pre-grated variety doesn’t melt as smoothly.
- Serve the meatloaf with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad to round out the meal and balance the richness of the dish.
Serving and Storing Your Mediterranean Meatloaf with Garlic Herb Sauce
Perfect Pairings for Mediterranean Meatloaf with Garlic Herb Sauce
This Mediterranean Meatloaf with Garlic Herb Sauce serves 6 people and pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and beverages. Some delicious accompaniments include roasted potatoes, sautéed green beans, a crisp Mediterranean salad, and a light, refreshing white wine or rosé. The creamy, herb-infused sauce also makes this meatloaf a fantastic main course for special occasions, such as holiday dinners or dinner parties.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Leftover Mediterranean Meatloaf with Garlic Herb Sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place slices of the meatloaf in a baking dish, cover with the leftover garlic herb sauce, and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
For make-ahead convenience, you can assemble the meatloaf in advance and store it unbaked in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, simply remove it from the fridge or freezer, let it come to room temperature, and then bake as directed. The garlic herb sauce can also be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 1 week, reheating it gently on the stovetop before serving.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Mediterranean Meatloaf with Garlic Herb Sauce
Creative Mediterranean Meatloaf with Garlic Herb Sauce Variations
To put a seasonal spin on this Mediterranean Meatloaf with Garlic Herb Sauce, try adding roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes to the meatloaf mixture for a burst of Mediterranean flavor. You could also experiment with different herb blends, such as using fresh rosemary and thyme instead of the dried oregano and basil. For a Mediterranean twist, replace the ground beef with ground lamb or a combination of ground beef and ground lamb.
Making Mediterranean Meatloaf with Garlic Herb Sauce Diet-Friendly
To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. For a low-carb or keto-friendly version, replace the panko with almond flour or pork rinds. To make it dairy-free, use a non-dairy milk alternative, such as unsweetened almond or oat milk, in place of the heavy cream, and omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I substitute the ground beef with another type of meat?
A: Absolutely! This Mediterranean Meatloaf with Garlic Herb Sauce recipe works well with ground lamb, ground turkey, or a combination of ground beef and ground pork.
Q: How can I tell if the meatloaf is fully cooked?
A: The meatloaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F. You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature, ensuring it’s cooked through without drying out.
Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?
A: Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking. You can also bake the meatloaf in advance and reheat it, along with the garlic herb sauce, when ready to serve.
Q: How many people does this recipe serve?
A: This Mediterranean Meatloaf with Garlic Herb Sauce recipe serves 6 people.
Q: What should I do if the meatloaf is dry or crumbly?
A: If the meatloaf turns out dry or crumbly, try adding an extra egg or a few tablespoons of milk or cream to the mixture before baking. This will help bind the ingredients and keep the meatloaf moist and tender.
Mediterranean Meatloaf with Garlic Herb Sauce
- Total Time: 65
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Indulge in the comforting and flavorful combination of Mediterranean spices and herbs in this homemade meatloaf, topped with a creamy garlic herb sauce. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, panko breadcrumbs, beaten eggs, onion, garlic, oregano, basil, coriander, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×5-inch loaf pan and shape it into a compact loaf.
4. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
5. Meanwhile, in a small saucepan, combine the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes.
6. Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Slice the meatloaf and drizzle the warm garlic herb sauce over the top.
7. Serve the Mediterranean Meatloaf with the garlic herb sauce, accompanied by your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.
Notes
For a spicier version, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meatloaf mixture or the garlic herb sauce. You can also use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner option.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 50
- Category: Beef, Fish & Seafood Mains
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Conclusion
This Mediterranean Meatloaf with Garlic Herb Sauce is a true comfort food classic that will become a family favorite in no time. The blend of flavorful spices, the tender meatloaf texture, and the indulgent, creamy sauce make this dish an absolute delight. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress. So go ahead, give it a try, and let me know what you think in the comments below. Bon appétit!
