This Greek Meatloaf is a fun twist on a classic favorite! Packed with delicious herbs, feta cheese, and olives, it’s full of flavor.
I love serving it with a side of roasted veggies or a fresh salad. It’s an easy meal that always feels special. Plus, your kitchen will smell amazing while it bakes!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: You can use a mix of ground beef and lamb for extra flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey also works well, though the flavor will be different.
Feta Cheese: Feta gives this meatloaf its signature Greek flavor. If you’re dairy-free, try a vegan feta or skip it altogether. Just add some extra herbs to compensate for the missing tang.
Kalamata Olives: These add a nice salty kick. If you don’t have kalamata olives, green olives can work too, or simply leave them out if olives aren’t your thing.
Breadcrumbs: I use traditional breadcrumbs, but for a gluten-free version, substitute with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. You can also use oatmeal blended until fine for a healthy alternative.
Fresh Herbs: Fresh oregano and parsley bring brightness to the meatloaf. If fresh isn’t available, dried herbs can do the trick. Just remember to use less since dried herbs are more concentrated.
How Do I Get the Right Texture and Flavor in a Meatloaf?
Achieving the perfect texture and flavor in your meatloaf is all about combining ingredients thoughtfully. The soaking of breadcrumbs in milk is key; it keeps the loaf moist. Make sure not to overmix when combining the meat and other ingredients, or it can become dense.
- Soak breadcrumbs in milk to ensure they stay moist.
- Mix everything gently; overmixing will toughen the meat.
- Let the meatloaf rest after baking. This helps keep it juicy when slicing.
- Feel free to adjust spices and herbs to match your taste. A pinch of cinnamon adds a lovely warmth!
Follow these tips, and you’re on your way to a delightful Greek meatloaf that’s both flavorful and satisfying!
Delicious Greek Meatloaf Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (or a mix of beef and lamb)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped kalamata olives (optional)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp fresh oregano, chopped (or 1 tbsp dried oregano)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce or ketchup (for topping)
- 1 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning (for topping)
- Additional crumbled feta and fresh herbs for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes around 15 minutes to prepare and about 60-75 minutes to bake. After that, let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. In total, you’ll be looking at about 1 hour and 30 minutes from start to finish, but the result is totally worth it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that your meatloaf bakes evenly and thoroughly.
2. Soak the Breadcrumbs:
In a small bowl, soak the breadcrumbs in milk until fully absorbed, which takes about 5 minutes. This helps keep your meatloaf nice and moist.
3. Combine the Meat Mixture:
In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, soaked breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, fresh oregano, parsley, thyme, cinnamon, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Be gentle while mixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
4. Add Feta and Olives:
Carefully fold in the crumbled feta cheese and chopped kalamata olives. This adds a wonderful flavor and texture to your meatloaf!
5. Shape the Meatloaf:
Transfer the mixture into a loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on a lined baking sheet. Make sure it’s evenly packed to ensure even cooking.
6. Add Topping:
Spread tomato sauce or ketchup over the top of the meatloaf. Sprinkle with dried oregano or Italian seasoning for an extra punch of flavor.
7. Bake:
Place your meatloaf in the preheated oven. Bake for about 60-75 minutes or until the internal temperature hits 160°F (70°C) and the top is beautifully caramelized.
8. Let it Rest:
Once baked, take it out of the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This step is important for keeping the juices inside when you slice it.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, garnish your meatloaf with extra crumbled feta and a sprinkle of fresh herbs like oregano or parsley. This makes it look great and adds a fresh taste!
This flavorful Greek Meatloaf pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, a Greek salad, or lemony potatoes. Enjoy your delicious dish!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative. Just be aware that it may be slightly less flavorful, so consider adding extra seasoning or herbs to enhance the taste.
What Can I Substitute for Feta Cheese?
If you don’t have feta cheese, you can try crumbled goat cheese or even cottage cheese. For a dairy-free option, look for a vegan feta alternative or simply leave it out and increase the herbs for flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of sauce if needed to keep it moist.
Can I Freeze This Meatloaf?
Yes, you can freeze the meatloaf before or after baking! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. It’ll keep for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.