Parm-A-Loaf
A savory meatloaf infused with Parmesan cheese and topped with barbecue sauce, offering rich flavors perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine ground beef, bread crumbs, milk, chopped onion, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, pepper, and oregano; mix lightly until well blended.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf in a 10 x 6-inch baking dish.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes.
- Spread barbecue sauce over the top of the loaf.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
- Serve sprinkled with additional cheese if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can substitute the bread crumbs with crushed crackers or gluten-free bread crumbs if needed. Adding minced garlic or diced bell peppers can enhance the flavor. If you prefer a spicier kick, mix in some hot sauce with the barbecue sauce before spreading it on top.
Serving Suggestions
This Parm-A-Loaf pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Serve it alongside mashed potatoes or garlic bread to soak up the delicious barbecue sauce. For a casual gathering, you can slice it into smaller pieces and serve with toothpicks as an appetizer, making it a great alternative for party platters.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, reheat the entire loaf in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Parm-A-Loaf contains roughly 692 calories, with 18g protein, 136g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (100% of the Daily Value), calcium (77% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (66% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1745mg per serving (76% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze the Parm-A-Loaf?
Yes, you can freeze the Parm-A-Loaf. Once it has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before warming it in the oven or microwave.
What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?
If you don't have Parmesan cheese, you can substitute it with Pecorino Romano, Grana Padano, or even a blend of mozzarella and cheddar for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that the taste will vary slightly, but it will still be delicious.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done cooking?
To ensure the meatloaf is cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach 160°F (70°C). Alternatively, you can cut into the center to check that the juices run clear and there is no pink meat remaining.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).