This Greek Meatloaf is a tasty twist on the classic dish! Made with ground beef, herbs, and feta cheese, it’s packed with flavor and has a lovely Mediterranean touch.
Every bite feels like a little vacation! I love serving it with some roasted veggies or a simple salad. It’s great for leftovers too, if there are any left! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I like to use a mix of beef and lamb for authentic flavor, but feel free to stick to all beef or even ground turkey if you’re looking to cut down on fat. Just remember, turkey may make it a bit dryer, so you might want to add extra moisture.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds that amazing tang, but if you’re not a fan, try using ricotta for a creamier texture. You can also opt for goat cheese if you want a different flavor profile!
Kalamata Olives: These olives bring briny goodness but can be swapped for green olives or even sun-dried tomatoes if you prefer. Just chop them up so they blend well with the meat mixture.
Breadcrumbs: Traditional breadcrumbs work great, but you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs or even rolled oats for a healthier touch. They all help keep the meatloaf moist!
How Do I Ensure My Meatloaf Comes Out Tender?
The key to a tender meatloaf is not overmixing. You want to combine the ingredients just enough for them to hold together. Here are my tips:
- Soak the breadcrumbs in milk, as it keeps the meatloaf moist.
- Mix with your hands gently; this helps to keep the texture light.
- Shaping the loaf in a pan ensures even cooking. You want it compact but not too packed, so it cooks evenly.
Letting it rest after baking is also important! This time allows the juices to redistribute, making each slice flavorful and juicy.
Greek Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef (or a mix of beef and lamb for authenticity)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese, plus extra for topping
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and chopped, plus extra halves for garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried oregano)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1 large egg
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1/2 lemon (plus slices for garnish)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup tomato sauce or ketchup (for topping)
- Fresh oregano sprigs for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Greek Meatloaf takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 60-70 minutes to bake. Plus, you should allow it to rest for about 10-15 minutes before slicing. In total, you’re looking at around 1 hour and 30 minutes until you can enjoy this delicious dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your meatloaf cooks evenly. While the oven is heating, you can prepare your loaf pan by lightly greasing it or lining it with parchment paper for easy cleanup!
2. Prepare the Breadcrumbs:
In a small bowl, soak the breadcrumbs in milk for a few minutes until they’re fully absorbed. This step is key to keeping your meatloaf moist and tender.
3. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, soaked breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, crumbled feta cheese, chopped Kalamata olives, chopped parsley, oregano, thyme, cinnamon (if using), egg, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Season the mixture generously with salt and black pepper. Mix everything together gently with your hands or a spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overwork it; this helps keep the meatloaf light!
4. Shape the Meatloaf:
Transfer the meat mixture into your prepared loaf pan, shaping it into a loaf. Use your hands to form it nicely, making sure it’s even on all sides.
5. Add Sauce on Top:
Spread the tomato sauce or ketchup evenly over the top of the meatloaf. This adds flavor and keeps the top moist while baking.
6. Bake:
Pop the meatloaf into the oven and bake for about 60-70 minutes, until it’s cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
7. Let It Rest:
Once baked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute, making for a tastier slice.
8. Garnish and Serve:
After resting, garnish the top with crumbled feta cheese, Kalamata olive halves, lemon slices, and fresh oregano sprigs. Serve warm with your favorite sides, like roasted vegetables, Greek salad, or pita bread. Enjoy the rich flavors of the Mediterranean in this delicious Greek Meatloaf!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a healthier alternative, but remember that they might make the meatloaf slightly dryer. You can add a tablespoon of olive oil or an extra tablespoon of milk to keep it moist.
How Do I Store Leftover Greek Meatloaf?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also wrap individual slices in plastic wrap for easy reheating later. Just reheat gently in the microwave or in a pan on low heat!
Can I Freeze This Meatloaf?
Yes, this meatloaf freezes beautifully! Let it cool completely after baking, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What Can I Serve With Greek Meatloaf?
This meatloaf pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, a fresh Greek salad, or even some warm pita bread. You can also serve it with a side of tzatziki for an extra Mediterranean flair!
