Crunchy-topped meat loaves

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this crunchy-topped meat loaf recipe! Juicy ground beef mixed with fresh vegetables, tomatoes, and savory spices are topped with a crispy parmesan crust. Perfect for family dinners, it's easy to make and irresistibly delicious.

  • 11 Mar 2025
  • Cook time 65 min
  • Prep time 20 min
  • 6 Servings
  • 12 Ingredients

Crunchy-topped meat loaves

Crunchy-topped meat loaves are a delicious and comforting dish, perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. This recipe combines ground beef, fresh vegetables, and a crispy, cheesy topping to create a flavorful and satisfying meal. Follow these steps to make a mouth-watering meat loaf with a crunchy top that everyone will love.

Ingredients:

2 tbsp olive oil
27g
1 onion
160g
1 stalk celery
130g
1 red pepper
80g
2 lb ground beef (80/20%)
910g
1 lb tomatoes
450g
2 cups bread crumbs
180g
2 tbsp mustard
30g
2 eggs
100g
1/2 bunch fresh parsley
27g
2 tbsp butter
30g
3/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
60g

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Vegetables:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion, celery, and red pepper. Sauté until the vegetables are soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let them cool slightly.
3. Prepare the Meat Loaf Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped tomatoes, bread crumbs, mustard, lightly beaten eggs, and chopped parsley.
- Add the sautéed vegetables to the bowl.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Using your hands or a sturdy spoon, mix all the ingredients together until they are well combined.
4. Form the Meat Loaves:
- Divide the meat mixture into 6 even portions and shape each portion into a mini loaf. Alternatively, you can form one large loaf if you prefer.
5. Prepare the Crunchy Topping:
- Melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat.
- Once melted, remove from heat and mix in the grated parmesan cheese.
6. Top the Meat Loaves:
- Place the mini loaves on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Spoon the buttery parmesan mixture evenly over the tops of each loaf.
7. Bake the Meat Loaves:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the meat loaves are cooked through and the topping is golden brown.
8. Serve:
- Remove the meat loaves from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Enjoy your crunchy-topped meat loaves with your favorite sides!

Tips:

- When chopping the vegetables, aim for small, uniform pieces to ensure even cooking and distribution throughout the meat loaf.

- To prevent the meat loaves from drying out, be careful not to overmix the meat mixture. Mix just until everything is combined.

- You can customize the seasoning to your taste by adding herbs like thyme, oregano, or basil in addition to the parsley.

- If you prefer, you can use a blend of ground beef, pork, and veal for a more complex flavor.

- For an extra crispy topping, you can broil the meat loaves for the last few minutes of cooking. Just keep a close eye to avoid burning the cheese.

This recipe for crunchy-topped meat loaves is simple yet delicious. The combination of juicy meat, fresh vegetables, and a cheesy, crispy topping makes for a crowd-pleasing dish that is perfect for any occasion. Enjoy your homemade meat loaves with your favorite side dishes for a complete and hearty meal.

Nutrition Facts
Serving Size360 grams
Energy
Calories 640kcal32%
Protein
Protein 36g24%
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates 30g9%
Fiber 3.75g10%
Sugar 6g6%
Fat
Fat 45g53%
Saturated 16g56%
Cholesterol 200mg-
Vitamins
Vitamin A 170ug19%
Choline 160mg29%
Vitamin B1 0.44mg36%
Vitamin B2 0.51mg39%
Vitamin B3 9mg57%
Vitamin B6 0.70mg41%
Vitamin B9 90ug23%
Vitamin B12 3.64ug152%
Vitamin C 36mg40%
Vitamin E 1.24mg8%
Vitamin K 90ug78%
Minerals
Calcium, Ca 210mg16%
Copper, Cu 0.25mg27%
Iron, Fe 5mg50%
Magnesium, Mg 66mg15%
Phosphorus, P 430mg34%
Potassium, K 850mg25%
Selenium, Se 40ug74%
Sodium, Na 600mg40%
Zinc, Zn 8mg70%
Water
Water 250g-
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

More recipes

Bacon-stuffed avocado baked eggs

A perfect low-carb, high-protein start to your day.

02 Apr 2025

Sherbet spider

Perfect for a refreshing and creamy treat that’s both tangy and sweet.

16 May 2025

Homemade chocolate cake

Enjoy a slice of deliciousness today.

17 Apr 2025

Chargrilled salmon with avocado salsa

Enjoy a delicious balance of protein and greens in every bite.

22 Apr 2025

Chicken and broccoli bake with mushrooms and cheese

Easy to prepare and satisfying, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

29 Mar 2025

Smashed potato salad

Ready in just a few simple steps.

11 Jun 2025

Chocolate crumble loaf

Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a satisfying snack.

15 Mar 2025

Peaches in ginger syrup

Easy to prepare and absolutely irresistible.

04 May 2025

Posts