This tasty Greek meatloaf is packed with flavor and made with ground beef, feta cheese, and fresh herbs. It’s a fun twist on the classic comfort food!
Who knew meatloaf could be this exciting? I love how the cheese adds creaminess, and the herbs give it a fresh touch. Serve it with a side of veggies for a complete meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Using a mix of beef and lamb offers a more traditional Greek flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken works well too! They may be leaner, so keep an eye on moisture.
Breadcrumbs: Traditional breadcrumbs give the meatloaf structure. If you need a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats. You can also use crushed crackers or cornmeal in a pinch!
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds a salty, creamy texture. If you can’t find feta, a good substitute is goat cheese or even ricotta for a milder flavor. For a stronger taste, try blue cheese.
Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley and oregano brighten the dish. If you don’t have fresh herbs, feel free to use dried ones, but use less since they are more concentrated. Also, dill is a nice addition for a fresh twist!
How Do I Keep My Meatloaf Moist and Flavorful?
The key to a moist meatloaf is in the mixing and baking method! It’s crucial to soak the breadcrumbs in milk first; this prevents dryness. When mixing, you want to combine ingredients just enough to hold everything together without overworking the meat, which can lead to a tough texture.
- Make sure you incorporate all ingredients without heavy mixing. Gentle folding is best.
- A drizzle of olive oil on top before baking helps retain moisture and gives a nice finish.
- Letting it rest after baking is important too! This allows juices to redistribute for easier slicing.
Make this Greek meatloaf your own by adjusting ingredients based on what you have at home. Enjoy it warm and savor the delicious flavors!
Greek Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and lamb for more authentic flavor)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese, plus extra for topping
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh oregano (or 1 tsp dried oregano)
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Olive oil (for greasing and drizzling)
- Optional garnish: roasted cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, sprigs of fresh thyme or oregano
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Greek meatloaf will take about 20 minutes to prepare and around 50-60 minutes to bake. Don’t forget to let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. So, all in all, you’re looking at about 1.5 hours from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan with olive oil or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup later.
2. Soak the Breadcrumbs:
In a small bowl, take your breadcrumbs and soak them in the milk for about 5 minutes. This helps to soften them, ensuring your meatloaf stays nice and moist!
3. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, soaked breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, tomato paste, crumbled feta cheese, chopped parsley, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together gently with your hands or a spoon—just enough to combine everything well without overdoing it.
4. Shape the Meatloaf:
After mixing, transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan. Press it down lightly to shape it evenly and make sure it fills every corner.
5. Add Olive Oil:
Drizzle a little olive oil over the top of the meatloaf. This will help keep it moist and add flavor as it bakes.
6. Bake:
Place the loaf pan in your preheated oven and bake for about 50-60 minutes or until the meatloaf is browned on top and cooked through. You might want to use a meat thermometer—look for an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).
7. Garnish (Optional):
If you’d like, in the last 15 minutes of cooking, add roasted cherry tomatoes and Kalamata olives around the meatloaf for a burst of color and flavor!
8. Rest and Serve:
Once done, take the meatloaf out of the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This resting time keeps it juicy when you slice it. Before serving, sprinkle some additional crumbled feta and fresh herbs on top for extra flair.
Enjoy your Greek meatloaf with a refreshing side of Greek salad or some roasted vegetables for a delightful Mediterranean-inspired meal!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes, you can absolutely use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option! Just be aware that it may be a bit drier than beef, so be sure to monitor the baking time and consider adding a bit more moisture, like extra milk or a splash of broth, if needed.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months—just make sure to wrap it tightly!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture up to a day in advance. Simply cover it and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Just allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking for even cooking.
What Should I Serve with Greek Meatloaf?
This meatloaf pairs wonderfully with a fresh Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or even mashed potatoes. You can also serve it with tzatziki sauce or a dollop of yogurt for a delicious and creamy contrast!