Chef Mitchell preparing Savory Herb Crusted Meatloaf
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered this Savory Herb Crusted Meatloaf recipe during my culinary training, where I learned the importance of seasoning. Over the years, I've perfected it to balance the flavors and textures. What started as a simple dish has become a family favorite, evoking nostalgia and warmth with every bite. It's a recipe I cherish and love sharing with friends and family."

With over a decade of experience in American cuisine, Chef Mitchell has a passion for creating comforting dishes that resonate with home-cooked meals. Specializing in dinner recipes, they have crafted a wide array of engaging, flavorful dishes. A Culinary School Graduate, Chef Mitchell combines traditional techniques with modern flair.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Savory Herb Crusted Meatloaf served on a plate

Why This Savory Herb Crusted Meatloaf Recipe Works

This Savory Herb Crusted Meatloaf delivers a perfect blend of flavors and moisture, thanks to the combination of fresh herbs and spices. The herb crust not only adds a delightful texture but also enhances the overall taste profile. The quality ingredients elevate this classic dish, making it a standout at any dinner table.

The technique of mixing the meatloaf without overworking it ensures a tender end result. Baking it at a controlled temperature allows for even cooking, while the cheese on top creates a crispy crust that contrasts beautifully with the moist meatloaf beneath.

💡 Professional Tip

For the best results, use high-quality ground beef with a good fat content, such as 80/20. This will ensure your meatloaf is juicy and flavorful. Additionally, let the meatloaf rest after baking to allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a moist slice every time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture and shape it into a loaf a day in advance. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to bake, simply remove it from the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, and then bake as directed. This is a great time-saver for busy weeknights.

If you don't have breadcrumbs, you can use crushed crackers, oatmeal, or even cooked rice as substitutes. Just be aware that this may alter the texture slightly. Ensure that any substitute used is finely ground or crushed to help bind the meatloaf together effectively.

The best way to check if the meatloaf is done is to use a meat thermometer. It should read 160°F (70°C) in the center. Alternatively, you can cut into the meatloaf to check that the juices run clear and there’s no pink in the center.

Yes, Savory Herb Crusted Meatloaf freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake until heated through.

Savory Herb Crusted Meatloaf pairs wonderfully with classic sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or a simple salad. You can also serve it with homemade gravy or ketchup for added flavor. This dish is versatile and can complement a variety of sides.

Stored properly in an airtight container, Savory Herb Crusted Meatloaf can last up to 3-4 days in the fridge. For the best taste and texture, try to consume it within this time frame. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture ahead of time and keep it in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. You can also bake it in advance and reheat it when needed. Just be sure to keep it well-covered to maintain its moisture.

The best way to reheat meatloaf is in the oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C), cover the meatloaf with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through. This will help retain moisture and prevent it from drying out.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: If your meatloaf turns out dry, it could be due to overcooking or not enough fat.

Solution: To prevent dryness, ensure you monitor the internal temperature and do not exceed 160°F (70°C). Using ground beef with a higher fat content can also help keep it moist.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: If the crust isn't crispy, it may be due to not enough cheese or oil on top.

Solution: For a crispier crust, increase the amount of cheese and oil on top of the meatloaf, and broil it for the last few minutes of cooking to enhance the crunch.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: Overcooked meatloaf can be dry and tough.

Prevention: To prevent overcooking, use a meat thermometer to check for doneness, and remove it from the oven as soon as it reaches 160°F (70°C).

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: An undercooked meatloaf will be soft and may have a pink center.

Recovery: If your meatloaf is undercooked, return it to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: A burnt exterior can occur from cooking at too high a temperature.

Prevention: To prevent burning, ensure your oven is correctly calibrated and cover the meatloaf with foil if it starts to brown too quickly.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the meatloaf is too sweet, consider adding a bit of vinegar or lemon juice to counterbalance the sweetness.

Too Salty: If it's too salty, add a bit of sugar or serve with a side that can balance the saltiness.

Bland: To fix bland meatloaf, incorporate additional spices or a flavorful glaze on top.

Fresh ingredients for Savory Herb Crusted Meatloaf

Essential Ingredients for Savory Herb Crusted Meatloaf

Key ingredients in this recipe include ground beef, which provides the main protein, and breadcrumbs that help bind the mixture together. Fresh herbs such as parsley and thyme add flavor and brightness, while the cheese on top creates a delightful crust that complements the meatloaf.

Using high-quality ingredients is crucial for achieving the best flavor. Opt for fresh herbs instead of dried ones for a more pronounced taste, and choose ground beef with a good fat content for a juicy result. Ensure your breadcrumbs are fresh and not stale, as this will impact the texture.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Ground Beef: Select ground beef with a fat content of around 80/20. This will ensure your meatloaf remains juicy. Leaner beef can lead to a dry meatloaf, so aim for a balance of flavor and moisture.
  • Breadcrumbs: Use fresh breadcrumbs for the best texture. You can make your own by pulsing stale bread in a food processor, which can enhance the overall quality of the meatloaf.
  • Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs elevate the dish significantly. Parsley adds freshness, while thyme and oregano contribute depth of flavor. Always check for freshness when purchasing herbs.
Cooking process for Savory Herb Crusted Meatloaf

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

The cooking process for this Savory Herb Crusted Meatloaf is straightforward and rewarding. Start by preheating your oven and preparing the meatloaf mixture with fresh ingredients. Proper mixing ensures good binding, while shaping the loaf is key to even cooking.

Achieving perfect results involves careful monitoring during baking. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness, and let the meatloaf rest after baking to enhance flavor and juiciness. This method guarantees a delicious and satisfying meatloaf every time.

Key Technique for Perfect Savory Herb Crusted Meatloaf

The most important technique for this meatloaf is to mix the ingredients just enough to combine them without overworking the meat. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture, while gentle mixing ensures a tender consistency. Letting the meatloaf rest after baking is also crucial for allowing the juices to redistribute.

Savory Herb Crusted Meatloaf

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup ketchup
    for glazing
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
    adds sweetness
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
    for depth of flavor
  • 1 teaspoon mustard
    for tanginess

For the Sauce

  • 2 lbs ground beef
    80/20 fat content
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
    fresh or store-bought
  • 1/2 cup chopped onion
    adds sweetness
  • 1/2 cup milk
    to moisten
  • 2 eggs
    binds the mixture
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    for flavor
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
    for freshness
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
    adds depth
  • 1 teaspoon salt
    to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
    for seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
    for flavor
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
    for flavor
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
    for depth
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
    to drizzle
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
    for crust

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven

    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

  2. Prepare Ingredients

    In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, milk, eggs, garlic, parsley, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, thyme, oregano, and paprika.

  3. Mix Meatloaf Mixture

    Mix all ingredients until well combined, but avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.

  4. Shape Meatloaf

    Transfer the meat mixture to a baking dish and shape it into a loaf.

  5. Prepare Herb Crust

    In a small bowl, mix olive oil with cheddar cheese, and spread it evenly over the top of the meatloaf.

  6. Bake Meatloaf

    Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes or until an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) is reached.

  7. Rest Meatloaf

    Once cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

  8. Serve

    Slice and serve warm with your favorite sides.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To store Savory Herb Crusted Meatloaf, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will last in the fridge for 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it, which can extend its shelf life up to three months.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Savory Herb Crusted Meatloaf with classic sides like mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh garden salad. For added flavor, drizzle with a homemade gravy or your favorite dipping sauce. This versatile dish pairs beautifully with many accompaniments.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to experiment with different ground meats like turkey or chicken for a lighter option. You can also add in vegetables like shredded carrots or zucchini for added nutrition. For a twist, try adding barbecue sauce or different spices to the meatloaf mixture for variety.