Mushroom Swiss Cheese Meatloaf is the epitome of comfort food. This delightful recipe blends tender ground beef with earthy mushrooms, creamy Swiss cheese, and a touch of herbs to create a meal that is hearty, flavorful, and satisfying. Topped with a refreshing garlic herb dressing, it elevates the classic meatloaf to a gourmet family dinner favorite.
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Garlic Herb Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Add the finely chopped onion and sliced mushrooms. Sauté for 5 minutes or until softened and slightly caramelized. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, sautéed onion and mushrooms, shredded Swiss cheese, minced garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Gently mix until the ingredients are evenly incorporated, being careful not to overwork the meat.
Step 2: Shape and Bake
- Shape the Meatloaf: Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared loaf pan. Shape it into a loaf, pressing gently to ensure even cooking.
- Bake: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven. Bake for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches 160°F (70°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
- Prepare Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
Step 4: Serve
- Let It Rest: After removing the meatloaf from the oven, let it rest for 10 minutes. This step helps the juices redistribute for a moist and tender texture.
- Slice and Garnish: Slice the meatloaf into even portions. Drizzle with the prepared garlic herb dressing and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant finish.
Cooking Notes
- Cheese Substitution: If Swiss cheese isn’t available, you can use Gruyère or Provolone for a similar creamy texture and flavor.
- Breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs work well, but panko breadcrumbs provide a slightly lighter texture.
- Meat Variations: For a leaner option, substitute half the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken.
- Add-Ins: Try incorporating chopped spinach or grated zucchini for extra nutrients and moisture.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair this meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.
- For a cozy dinner, serve with buttered peas or sautéed green beans on the side.
- Slice leftover meatloaf thinly and use it in sandwiches for an irresistible lunch option.
Tips
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the meat can result in a dense meatloaf. Combine just until everything is evenly distributed.
- Use a Thermometer: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf is cooked through without drying out.
- Resting is Key: Allowing the meatloaf to rest before slicing keeps it juicy and prevents it from falling apart.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cooking Time:
1 hour
Total Time:
1 hour 15 minutes
Servings:
6
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 26g
- Sodium: 450mg
Conclusion
Mushroom Swiss Cheese Meatloaf with Garlic Herb Dressing is a versatile dish that brings together rich flavors and a satisfying texture. Whether served as a comforting weeknight meal or a centerpiece for a weekend gathering, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your household. It’s easy to prepare, customizable, and guaranteed to please even the pickiest eaters!
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Mushroom Swiss Cheese Meatloaf with Garlic Herb Dressing
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Ingredients
Scale
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Garlic Herb Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Add the finely chopped onion and sliced mushrooms. Sauté for 5 minutes or until softened and slightly caramelized. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, sautéed onion and mushrooms, shredded Swiss cheese, minced garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Gently mix until the ingredients are evenly incorporated, being careful not to overwork the meat.
Step 2: Shape and Bake
- Shape the Meatloaf: Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared loaf pan. Shape it into a loaf, pressing gently to ensure even cooking.
- Bake: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven. Bake for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches 160°F (70°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
- Prepare Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
Step 4: Serve
- Let It Rest: After removing the meatloaf from the oven, let it rest for 10 minutes. This step helps the juices redistribute for a moist and tender texture.
- Slice and Garnish: Slice the meatloaf into even portions. Drizzle with the prepared garlic herb dressing and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant finish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 350
- Sodium: 450mg
- Protein: 26g