This delicious meatloaf is packed with creamy garlic and parmesan flavors. It’s a warm and comforting meal that the whole family will love!
I like to serve it with mashed potatoes, and let’s be real, the garlic sauce is so good you’ll want to drench everything in it! 😂
This meatloaf is super simple to whip up—just mix, shape, and bake. Plus, it stays moist and tender every time, which is a huge win in my book!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the main protein in the meatloaf. If you prefer, you can use ground turkey for a leaner option. Both work great!
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nutty flavor. If you don’t have Parmesan, try Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These keep the meatloaf light and crispy. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs will work too, though your meatloaf may be a little denser.
Heavy Cream: Makes the sauce rich and creamy. If you want a lighter version, use half-and-half or whole milk. Coconut milk can be used for a dairy-free approach.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work, but I recommend fresh for the most aroma!
How Do You Ensure the Meatloaf Stays Moist?
The key to a moist meatloaf is not to overmix the ingredients. Mix everything just until combined. This keeps it tender. Additionally, using a mix of breadcrumbs and milk helps retain moisture. Allow the meatloaf to rest for a few minutes after baking to let the juices redistribute before slicing.
- Preheat your oven and prepare the loaf pan.
- Combine ingredients gently in a mixing bowl.
- Cook until the center reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety and doneness.
Try to use a meat thermometer for the best results. This will help you avoid any dry bites, and you’ll enjoy a perfectly juicy meatloaf every time!
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground chicken
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried parsley)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (optional)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
For the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 45-50 minutes to bake, so you can expect a total time of about 1 hour. Just enough time to whip up a delicious dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating up, lightly grease or line a loaf pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, milk, minced garlic, chopped onion, egg, parsley, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning if you’re using it. Stir gently until everything is just combined—remember, don’t overmix; this helps keep your meatloaf tender!
3. Optional Cheese Mix:
If you want that extra creamy texture, fold in the shredded mozzarella cheese at this stage.
4. Shape and Bake:
Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it in your prepared loaf pan or on a lined baking sheet. Pop it in the oven and bake for about 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe eating.
5. Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
While the meatloaf is baking, let’s whip up that creamy sauce! In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant—it smells amazing!
6. Add Cream and Parmesan:
Now, pour in the heavy cream and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and cook until the sauce thickens slightly, which should take about 3-5 minutes.
7. Season the Sauce:
Don’t forget to season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Once you’ve got the flavor just right, remove it from the heat.
8. Slice and Serve:
When the meatloaf has baked to perfection, let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute and makes for a juicier meatloaf.
9. Top with Sauce:
Serve the slices of meatloaf topped with the warm creamy garlic Parmesan sauce and garnish with fresh parsley for a beautiful finish!
Enjoy this creamy, garlicky, cheesy chicken meatloaf with your favorite sides! It’s sure to become a family favorite!
FAQs About Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will work just as well in this recipe. Just make sure to adjust seasoning to taste, as turkey can have a milder flavor than chicken.
How Can I Store Leftover Meatloaf?
Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For the best texture, wrap it tightly before refrigerating.
Can I Freeze the Meatloaf?
Yes, you can freeze the meatloaf! Once it’s cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
What Can I Serve with This Meatloaf?
This meatloaf pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad. The creamy garlic parmesan sauce also makes a great drizzle over pasta or rice!
