Mediterranean Meatloaf with Garlic Herb Sauce Recipe

Introduction

This Mediterranean Meatloaf with Garlic Herb Sauce offers a flavorful twist on the classic comfort dish. With aromatic herbs, spices, and a tangy yogurt sauce, it brings vibrant Mediterranean flavors to your dinner table. It’s easy to prepare and sure to impress family and friends.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (80% lean)
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 Tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• For Garlic Herb Sauce:
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
• 1 Tbsp lemon juice
• 1 Tbsp lemon zest
• 1 clove garlic, finely minced
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Step 2: In a bowl, combine ground beef, beaten egg, breadcrumbs, olive oil, chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Step 3: Mix gently until ingredients are just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
4. Step 4: Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan or on a lined baking sheet.
5. Step 5: Bake for 45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
6. Step 6: While the meatloaf bakes, prepare the garlic herb sauce by whisking together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
7. Step 7: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
8. Step 8: Serve slices topped with or alongside the garlic herb sauce for a fresh, tangy complement.

Tips & Variations

• For a lighter option, substitute half the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken.
• Add finely chopped bell peppers or grated zucchini to the meat mixture for extra moisture and nutrition.
• Use panko breadcrumbs for a lighter texture in the meatloaf.
• Try swapping fresh parsley for fresh cilantro or mint for a different herb flavor.

Storage

Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The garlic herb sauce can be kept separately in a sealed container for 2 to 3 days. Reheat the meatloaf gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through, and stir the sauce before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and shape the meatloaf a day in advance, then cover and refrigerate before baking. This helps flavors meld and makes dinner prep easier.

Is it possible to freeze this meatloaf?

Absolutely! Freeze the cooked meatloaf in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in foil and plastic wrap for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Mediterranean Meatloaf with Garlic Herb Sauce Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 114 reviews

This Mediterranean Meatloaf with Garlic Herb Sauce is a flavorful twist on a classic comfort dish, combining spiced ground beef with fresh herbs and a tangy Greek yogurt sauce. Perfectly baked to juicy perfection, it offers a balanced, aromatic meal inspired by Mediterranean flavors.

• Author: Ruby
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meatloaf

• 1 lb ground beef (80% lean)
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 Tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Garlic Herb Sauce

• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
• 1 Tbsp lemon juice
• 1 Tbsp lemon zest
• 1 clove garlic, finely minced
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the proper baking temperature for the meatloaf.
2. Mix ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, beaten egg, breadcrumbs, olive oil, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, fresh parsley, ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix gently to incorporate everything together without overmixing, which can make the meatloaf dense.
3. Form the loaf: Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it into a greased loaf pan or on a lined baking sheet prepared with parchment.
4. Bake: Place the loaf in the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.
5. Prepare the sauce: While the meatloaf is baking, whisk together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, lemon zest, finely minced garlic, and a pinch of salt until smooth and well combined.
6. Rest the meatloaf: After baking, let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful slice.
7. Serve: Slice the meatloaf and serve with the garlic herb sauce drizzled over the top or on the side for dipping.

Notes

• Do not overmix the meat mixture to keep the meatloaf tender.
• Using 80% lean beef balances flavor with moisture; leaner beef may result in a drier loaf.
• Letting the meatloaf rest before slicing helps retain its juices.
• Breadcrumbs can be substituted with gluten-free options if desired.
• The garlic herb sauce can be doubled for extra serving or used as a dip for vegetables.

Keywords: Mediterranean meatloaf, garlic herb sauce, baked meatloaf, ground beef recipe, easy dinner