Parmesan Cheese In Meatloaf: Yes Or No?

Parmesan cheese is a common ingredient in meatloaf recipes, especially those with an Italian twist. It can be mixed into the meatloaf or used as a topping, adding a tangy, savoury flavour to the dish. Some recipes suggest substituting breadcrumbs with parmesan cheese, creating a keto-friendly option. However, not all meatloaf recipes include cheese, and some cooks may choose to omit it. Nutritional yeast can be used as a substitute for those seeking a longer-lasting seasoning.

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Parmesan cheese as a binder

Parmesan cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, including meatloaf. When used in meatloaf, Parmesan cheese acts as a binder, helping to hold the other ingredients together and giving the dish a creamy texture and a tangy flavour.

To use Parmesan cheese as a binder in meatloaf, it is typically combined with ground meat, eggs, breadcrumbs, and various seasonings. The cheese adds a savoury depth of flavour and a creamy texture that complements the other ingredients.

In terms of quantity, most recipes call for around 1/2 cup to 3/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese for a standard-sized meatloaf. This amount ensures that the cheese provides sufficient binding without overwhelming the other flavours in the dish.

When preparing a meatloaf with Parmesan cheese, it is important to thoroughly mix all the ingredients until they are evenly incorporated. This ensures that the cheese is distributed throughout the meatloaf, creating a cohesive and flavourful final product.

Some recipes also call for additional cheese to be sprinkled on top of the meatloaf before baking. This creates a melted, cheesy topping that adds extra flavour and texture to the dish. Overall, using Parmesan cheese as a binder in meatloaf is a great way to enhance the flavour and texture of the dish, creating a savoury and creamy main course.

Nutritional yeast as a substitute

Nutritional yeast, also known as "nooch", is a popular substitute for parmesan cheese, especially for vegans. It has a cheesy, nutty, umami flavour that can enhance the taste of many dishes. Nutritional yeast is a complete protein, containing all the amino acids the body needs, and is fortified with vitamins such as B12, which is essential for a healthy nervous system. It is also an excellent source of B vitamins, including thiamin, folate, niacin, and riboflavin, which are important for metabolizing energy.

When substituting nutritional yeast for parmesan cheese in meatloaf, it is recommended to use about half the amount of nutritional yeast as you would parmesan, tasting as you go. This is because the flavour of nutritional yeast is quite concentrated. Some people also add ingredients such as lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and cashews to enhance the cheesy flavour and create a texture similar to parmesan.

Nutritional yeast is a versatile ingredient that can be sprinkled on anything that you would normally top with parmesan, such as salads, roasted vegetables, pasta, or popcorn. It can also be added to sauces, soups, dips, and mashed potatoes to boost the flavour. In addition to its health benefits and versatile flavour, nutritional yeast is also a cost-effective alternative to parmesan.

Some people choose to make their own vegan parmesan cheese by blending nutritional yeast with other ingredients such as nuts, seeds, and spices. This allows them to customize the flavour and texture to their liking. Overall, nutritional yeast is a delicious and nutritious alternative to parmesan cheese that can be used in a variety of dishes, including meatloaf.

Meatloaf with marinara sauce

Meatloaf is a versatile dish that can be made with various ingredients, including cheese. While some recipes for meatloaf include Parmesan cheese, it is not a necessary ingredient, and you can omit it if you prefer. However, if you're looking to add a cheesy twist to your meatloaf, Parmesan can be a great option.

Ingredients:

• Ground beef
• Ground pork
• Onion
• Garlic
• Eggs
• Breadcrumbs
• Parmesan cheese
• Marinara sauce
• Italian herb blend (basil, oregano, marjoram, sage)
• Salt and pepper
• Optional: Mozzarella cheese

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F - 375°F. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, onion, garlic, eggs, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and Italian herb blend. Season with salt and pepper and mix well with your hands until evenly incorporated.

Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a lightly oiled loaf pan or a greased, foil-lined baking sheet. Bake for about 20 minutes, and then remove the meatloaf from the oven.

Spread the marinara sauce evenly over the top of the meatloaf, letting it drip down the sides. Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.

Let the meatloaf rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful.

For an extra cheesy touch, you can top the meatloaf with a thin layer of ketchup and mozzarella cheese before baking.

Feel free to adjust the ingredients and cooking instructions to suit your taste and preferences. Enjoy your homemade meatloaf!

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Italian herb blend

Parmesan cheese is a common ingredient in meatloaf recipes, especially those with an Italian twist. The cheese adds flavour and acts as a binder, holding the meatloaf together. Nutritional yeast can be used as a substitute for parmesan, or it can be left out entirely.

An Italian herb blend is a great way to add flavour to a meatloaf. You can make your own blend by combining dried herbs such as basil, oregano, rosemary, thyme, marjoram, and sage. You can also add garlic powder to the blend for a sweet and savoury note. This blend can be made in large batches and stored in a glass jar, away from light and heat, for up to six months.

To make an Italian meatloaf, combine ground beef and ground pork with onion, garlic, eggs, breadcrumbs, and Italian herb blend. You can also add Parmesan cheese to taste. Form the mixture into a loaf shape and bake in the oven.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 teaspoon dried leaf basil
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano
• Dash of dried rubbed sage
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/3 cup finely chopped onion
• 1 clove garlic, crushed
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 pound ground pork or mild Italian sausage without casings
• Tomato sauce
• Mozzarella cheese, sliced

Directions:

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
• Combine the Italian herb blend, Parmesan cheese, egg, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
• Add the ground beef and ground pork or sausage and mix well.
• Pack the mixture into a lightly oiled loaf pan.
• Bake for 1 hour and 10 minutes.
• Remove from the oven and pour off any excess fat. Spread tomato sauce over the loaf and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and sliced mozzarella cheese.
• Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes.
• Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Meatloaf with mozzarella

Meatloaf is a versatile dish that can be made with a variety of ingredients. While some recipes call for Parmesan cheese, you can easily substitute it with other types of cheese, such as mozzarella. Mozzarella stuffed meatloaf is a popular variation that has gained traction over the years. This version of the classic dish offers a fun twist, with melted mozzarella oozing out of every slice.

To make a meatloaf with mozzarella, you can follow these general steps:

• Preheat your oven to a temperature between 350°F and 375°F.
• Prepare a baking pan or loaf pan by greasing it with non-stick cooking spray or lining it with waxed paper.
• Combine ground meat (typically beef, but you can also use turkey, chicken, or a combination of pork and beef) with various ingredients such as breadcrumbs, eggs, onion, garlic, herbs and spices, and milk or Worcestershire sauce.
• Divide the meat mixture in half and shape one half into the bottom half of the loaf in the prepared pan.
• Add the mozzarella: place slices of mozzarella cheese down the center of the meatloaf, leaving some space around the ends and sides. You can also sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top of the meat mixture.
• Cover the mozzarella with the remaining meat mixture, shaping it into the top half of the loaf and sealing the edges.
• Bake the meatloaf for approximately 1 hour to 1 hour and 10 minutes. The internal temperature of the meatloaf should reach a minimum of 160°F to be safe for consumption.
• Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese in your meatloaf. While mozzarella provides a gooey and cheesy center, you can also use cheeses like cheddar, provolone, gouda, or pepper jack to add your own twist to the recipe. Additionally, you can top your meatloaf with a layer of ketchup, tomato sauce, or your favorite glaze to enhance the flavor and moisture.

Frequently asked questions