Delicious Garlic Parmesan Mini Meatloaves

Welcome to a culinary creation that will soon become a staple in your household – Garlic Parmesan Meatloaves! These mini meatloaves are a delightful twist on a classic comfort food, boasting the perfect blend of savory garlic, nutty parmesan, and aromatic herbs. Each individual portion is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to whip up, making them a go-to recipe for busy weeknights.

Crafted with ground chicken, fresh garlic, grated parmesan cheese, and a medley of seasonings, these Garlic Parmesan Meatloaves are a crowd-pleaser even for the pickiest of eaters. The addition of marinara sauce and melty mozzarella cheese takes these meatloaves to the next level, creating a mouthwatering dish that will have your family coming back for seconds.

Whether you’re looking for a lighter alternative to traditional beef meatloaf or simply craving a cozy meal that’s bursting with flavor, these individual meatloaves are sure to hit the spot. Perfect for make-ahead preparations and easily customizable to suit different dietary preferences, Garlic Parmesan Meatloaves are a versatile and delicious option for any occasion. Get ready to savor the comforting aroma of these delightful mini meatloaves as they bake to perfection in your kitchen!

Quick Benefits

• Portion-controlled comfort food: Perfect individual servings that are impressive and simple to prepare.
• Adaptable and versatile: Easy to customize with different meats, cheeses, herbs, and spices to suit various preferences.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare ahead, refrigerate, freeze, and reheat for quick and easy meals.

Why You’ll Love This Delicious Garlic Parmesan Mini Meatloaves Recipe

• Impressive yet Simple: Transform ground chicken into delicious, portion-controlled comfort food that is both impressive and incredibly simple to prepare, making it perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions.
• Picky Eater Approved: Even picky eaters, like teenagers, will love these mini meatloaves as they are flavorful and visually appealing, making them a hit with the whole family.
• Fresh Garlic Makes the Difference: The use of fresh garlic in this recipe is non-negotiable, as it brings out a mellow sweetness that cannot be replicated with dried garlic, resulting in a superior taste that even discerning eaters will appreciate.
• Make-Ahead and Freezer-Friendly: The versatility of this recipe allows for easy meal prep, making it convenient for busy weeknights. You can prepare the mixture in advance and freeze the meatloaves for up to three months, providing quick, individual meals whenever needed.
• Versatile Pairings: These meatloaves pair well with a variety of side dishes, from roasted vegetables to mashed potatoes, allowing you to customize your meal according to your preferences and dietary needs.
• Adaptable Recipe: With various ingredient substitutions and additions, such as different meats, herbs, and cheeses, you can easily customize the meatloaves to suit different tastes and dietary restrictions, making it a versatile and inclusive option for all.
• Moist and Tender: The combination of milk, egg, and breadcrumbs in the mixture ensures that the meatloaves stay moist and tender, providing a satisfying eating experience that will keep you coming back for more.

Ingredients for Delicious Garlic Parmesan Mini Meatloaves

Main Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 pound ground chicken
• 1/4 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup marinara sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated

Pro Tips for Delicious Garlic Parmesan Mini Meatloaves

Pro Tip 1: Fresh garlic is key! The flavor it adds to these meatloaves is unmatched, so stick to fresh cloves for the best results.

Pro Tip 2: Make meal prep a breeze by preparing the meatloaf mixture ahead of time. Shape the mini loaves, refrigerate, and bake when ready. Just remember to adjust the cooking time slightly if baking from chilled.

Pro Tip 3: Customize to your heart’s content! Try different meat options, spice levels, and herb combinations to suit your taste preferences. These meatloaves are versatile and can easily be adapted to suit your family’s preferences.

How to Make Delicious Garlic Parmesan Mini Meatloaves

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Equipment

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a muffin tin.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Combine ground chicken, grated parmesan, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, egg, milk, fresh parsley, dried oregano, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 3: Shape Meatloaves

Divide the mixture evenly among the greased muffin cups and gently press it into shape.

Step 4: Initial Baking

Cook the meatloaves in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and set on top.

Step 5: Add Marinara and Cheese

Spread marinara sauce on top of each meatloaf and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese. Bake for 5 more minutes to melt the cheese.

Storage Tips

Once you have prepared the garlic parmesan meatloaves, there are various storage options available depending on your needs. If you want to prepare them ahead of time, you can store the raw meatloaves in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, for longer storage, shape the raw meatloaves in the muffin tin, freeze them until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When cooking from frozen, remember to add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time to ensure they cook through.

For a convenient meal prep option, you can fully cook the meatloaves, allow them to cool completely, and then freeze them in airtight containers for up to three months. This allows you to have quick and easy individual meals ready to heat up whenever you need them. Whether you choose to refrigerate before baking, freeze raw, or freeze cooked meatloaves, you can enjoy the delicious flavors of these mini meatloaves with minimal effort and maximum convenience.

Ingredient Substitutions

For ingredient substitutions in this Garlic Parmesan Meatloaves recipe, feel free to swap the ground chicken for ground turkey, beef, or a meat alternative based on your dietary preferences. Keep in mind that cooking times might vary slightly depending on the protein used. Ground turkey is a great alternative to chicken with similar cooking times and results.

If you need to make this recipe gluten-free, you can easily substitute almond flour or crushed pork rinds for the breadcrumbs. This substitution will help bind the meat mixture and keep it moist without compromising the texture or flavor. Just ensure you adjust the quantity to achieve the desired consistency.

When it comes to herbs, using fresh herbs like oregano and parsley can enhance the flavor profile of the meatloaves. Remember to use three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried for a more vibrant taste. Fresh herbs add a fragrant and lively touch to the dish, elevating its overall taste. Feel free to experiment with other fresh herbs like basil, rosemary, or thyme to customize the flavor to your liking.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, consider topping each mini garlic parmesan meatloaf with a dollop of creamy basil pesto before serving. The fresh herbaceous flavors of the pesto will complement the savory meatloaves beautifully, adding a burst of freshness to each bite.

Another fun idea is to turn these individual meatloaves into sliders! Slice each meatloaf in half horizontally, sandwich it between two garlic butter-toasted slider buns, and add a slice of roasted red pepper or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra flavor. This twist on a classic comfort food will make for a delightful and portable meal option, perfect for gatherings or busy weeknights.

FAQs for Delicious Garlic Parmesan Mini Meatloaves

Can I use a different type of ground meat in this recipe?

Yes, you can use ground turkey, beef, or a meat alternative depending on your preference. Cooking time may vary slightly.

Why do we combine milk, egg, and breadcrumbs in the meat mixture?

Combining milk, egg, and breadcrumbs keeps the meat mixture moist. Avoid overmixing to retain tenderness.

What are some ideal side dishes to serve with these meatloaves?

Serve these meatloaves with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.

Can I prepare these meatloaves ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture ahead, shape into portions, and refrigerate until ready to bake. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if chilled.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these Garlic Parmesan Meatloaves are a true family favorite in my household and have become a go-to comfort food option that never fails to impress. The combination of savory garlic, nutty Parmesan, and a blend of herbs creates individual portions bursting with flavor and nostalgia.

Don’t hesitate to experiment and make these meatloaves your own by incorporating different variations to suit your taste preferences. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or add your own twist, these mini meatloaves are sure to bring joy to your dinner table. Embrace the simplicity and heartiness of these Garlic Parmesan Meatloaves as you create delicious memories around the dinner table with your loved ones.

Delicious Garlic Parmesan Mini Meatloaves

Savory and moist Garlic Parmesan Meatloaves, a flavorful twist on classic comfort food with a perfect blend of herbs and cheese.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time10 Minutes

Cook Time30 Minutes

Total Time40 Minutes

CuisineItalian-American

Skill LevelEasy

Servings6 Servings

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 pound ground chicken
• 1/4 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup marinara sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Equipment: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a muffin tin.
2. Combine Ingredients: Combine ground chicken, grated parmesan, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, egg, milk, fresh parsley, dried oregano, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl. Be careful not to overmix.
3. Shape Meatloaves: Divide the mixture evenly among the greased muffin cups and gently press it into shape.
4. Initial Baking: Cook the meatloaves in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and set on top.
5. Add Marinara and Cheese: Spread marinara sauce on top of each meatloaf and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese. Bake for 5 more minutes to melt the cheese.