Garlic Herb Meatloaf Recipe

This Garlic Herb Meatloaf Recipe is a flavorful twist on the classic comfort food that brings a fresh, aromatic upgrade to your dinner table. Packed with garlic, fresh herbs, and tender ground beef, this meatloaf is moist, juicy, and bursting with savory flavor. The combination of herbs—like parsley, thyme, and rosemary—infuses every bite with depth and fragrance, while a touch of garlic adds the perfect punch of flavor.

Unlike traditional meatloaf recipes that rely heavily on ketchup or sugary glazes, this version celebrates natural, wholesome flavors and fresh herbs. It’s the perfect meal for a cozy weeknight dinner or a hearty Sunday feast.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this Garlic Herb Meatloaf because it brings a gourmet flair to an everyday classic. The garlic and herbs completely transform the dish from simple to special, creating a beautiful balance of flavors—savory, earthy, and slightly sweet from the caramelized edges. It’s moist inside and perfectly crisp on the outside.

Another reason I love it is how versatile it is. You can serve it with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or even slice it for sandwiches the next day. It’s one of those dishes that feels like comfort food but tastes like something you’d order at a restaurant.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This recipe is a must-try for anyone who appreciates a comforting meal with elevated flavor. The fresh herbs make the meatloaf taste light and aromatic, while the garlic adds richness and warmth. It’s also simple to make—no fancy equipment or complicated steps required—just pure, home-cooked goodness.

If you’ve ever thought meatloaf was bland or boring, this recipe will completely change your mind. It’s hearty, flavorful, and deeply satisfying.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Servings: 6 servings
• Calories: Approximately 370 kcal per serving
• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 1½ pounds (680g) ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
• ¾ cup breadcrumbs
• ½ cup milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

For the Topping (Optional):

• ¼ cup ketchup or tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

Cooking Directions

1. Preheat Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.
2. Make the Breadcrumb Mixture:
   In a large bowl, combine breadcrumbs and milk. Let it soak for 2–3 minutes until the milk is absorbed.
3. Prepare the Meat Mixture:
   Add ground beef, eggs, onion, garlic, parsley, thyme, rosemary, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika to the breadcrumb mixture. Mix gently until combined—do not overmix to keep it tender.
4. Shape the Loaf:
   Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and shape it into a loaf.
5. Prepare the Glaze (Optional):
   In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. Brush half of it over the top of the loaf.
6. Bake:
   Bake the meatloaf for 50–55 minutes. Remove from oven, brush with the remaining glaze, and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
7. Rest and Slice:
   Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Step 1: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Step 2: Combine breadcrumbs and milk in a large bowl; let soak.
3. Step 3: Add ground beef, eggs, onion, garlic, herbs, and seasonings. Mix gently.
4. Step 4: Form the mixture into a loaf shape on a baking sheet or in a loaf pan.
5. Step 5: Brush the top with glaze, if using.
6. Step 6: Bake for 50–60 minutes until fully cooked through.
7. Step 7: Rest for 10 minutes, then slice and serve.

How to Serve

Serve the Garlic Herb Meatloaf hot, sliced thickly with your favorite sides.

Serving Ideas:

• With creamy mashed potatoes and gravy
• Alongside roasted or steamed vegetables
• With garlic bread and a green salad
• On toasted bread for a delicious meatloaf sandwich

Recipe Tips

• Use fresh herbs: They provide a more vibrant flavor than dried herbs.
• Don’t overmix: Mix gently to keep the meatloaf tender.
• Let it rest: This prevents juices from escaping when slicing.
• Check doneness: Use a thermometer to ensure it reaches 160°F (71°C).
• Add vegetables: Finely diced carrots or bell peppers can add flavor and texture.

Variations

1. Cheesy Garlic Herb Meatloaf:
   Add 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese to the meat mixture for a gooey center.
2. Turkey Garlic Herb Meatloaf:
   Replace beef with ground turkey for a lighter, leaner version.
3. BBQ Herb Meatloaf:
   Substitute the glaze with barbecue sauce for a smoky, tangy twist.
4. Mediterranean Herb Meatloaf:
   Add chopped spinach, feta cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean flair.
5. Spicy Garlic Meatloaf:
   Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne for extra heat.

Freezing and Storage

• To Store (Refrigerator):
  Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
• To Freeze (Uncooked):
  Shape the meatloaf and wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
• To Freeze (Cooked):
  Let the cooked meatloaf cool completely. Slice and store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Reheat at 350°F (175°C) until hot.

Special Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls
• Loaf pan or baking sheet
• Parchment paper (optional)
• Meat thermometer
• Whisk (for glaze)

Conclusion

This Garlic Herb Meatloaf Recipe is a fresh, flavorful, and comforting dish that elevates the traditional meatloaf experience. With the aromatic combination of herbs and garlic, it’s moist, tender, and deeply satisfying—perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

It’s easy to prepare, uses simple ingredients, and delivers restaurant-quality flavor in every bite. Serve it with your favorite sides for a wholesome meal that feels both homey and elegant. Once you try this herb-infused version, you’ll never look at meatloaf the same way again.

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Garlic Herb Meatloaf Recipe

Author: admin Cuisine: American Courses: Meat

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 60 mins Total Time 1 hr 15 mins

Servings: 6 Calories: 370 kcal per serving

Description

This Garlic Herb Meatloaf Recipe is a flavorful twist on the classic comfort food that brings a fresh, aromatic upgrade to your dinner table. Packed with garlic, fresh herbs, and tender ground beef, this meatloaf is moist, juicy, and bursting with savory flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

For the Meatloaf:

• 1 pounds ½ (680g)
• ¾ cup breadcrumbs
• ½ cup milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

For the Topping (Optional):

• ¼ cup ketchup or tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.
2. Make the Breadcrumb Mixture: In a large bowl, combine breadcrumbs and milk. Let it soak for 2–3 minutes until the milk is absorbed.
3. Prepare the Meat Mixture: Add ground beef, eggs, onion, garlic, parsley, thyme, rosemary, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika to the breadcrumb mixture. Mix gently until combined—do not overmix to keep it tender.
4. Shape the Loaf: Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and shape it into a loaf.
5. Prepare the Glaze (Optional): In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. Brush half of it over the top of the loaf.
6. Bake: Bake the meatloaf for 50–55 minutes. Remove from oven, brush with the remaining glaze, and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
7. Rest and Slice: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.

Keywords: Garlic Herb Meatloaf Recipe