Tired of the same old weeknight dinners? Craving something hearty, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further than this delicious lamb meatloaf recipe! This isn't your grandma's meatloaf; we're elevating the classic with tender lamb, aromatic herbs, and a touch of Mediterranean flair. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this healthy and satisfying meal – perfect for a quick dinner idea or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
This lamb meatloaf recipe uses simple, readily available ingredients. You can easily adapt it based on your dietary preferences and what you have on hand.
- 1 lb ground lamb
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup lamb stock or beef broth
Instructions:
Get started: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan. This simple step ensures your meatloaf slides out easily.
Prepare the lamb mixture: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground lamb, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, garlic, onion, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in a tough meatloaf. Mix until just combined.
Shape and bake: Transfer the lamb mixture to the prepared loaf pan and shape it into a loaf. Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the top. Pour the lamb stock around the base of the loaf in the pan.
Bake to perfection: Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). A meat thermometer is your best friend here, ensuring a perfectly cooked meatloaf every time. If the top starts to brown too quickly, loosely tent it with foil.
Rest and serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meatloaf.
Cooking Tips for the Best Lamb Meatloaf:
- Don't overmix the meat: Overmixing develops the gluten in the breadcrumbs, resulting in a tough meatloaf. Gentle mixing is key!
- Use fresh herbs: Fresh herbs offer a superior flavor compared to dried herbs. If using dried herbs, reduce the amount by about half.
- Check for doneness: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the lamb meatloaf is cooked through to a safe internal temperature.
- Get creative with toppings: Experiment with different toppings like a glaze made from balsamic vinegar and honey, or a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese before baking.
Variations:
- Spicy Lamb Meatloaf: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the meat mixture for a spicy kick.
- Mediterranean Lamb Meatloaf: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve this delicious meatloaf with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
This lamb meatloaf recipe is a fantastic example of delicious and easy recipes perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for healthy meals and homemade cooking enthusiasts alike. Enjoy!