Introduction

Mediterranean Meatloaf is a delicious twist on the classic comfort food, infused with vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean. Featuring ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, olives, feta cheese, garlic, and fresh herbs, this meatloaf brings a flavorful, aromatic, and hearty meal to your table. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or meal prep. Juicy, tender, and packed with wholesome flavors, this Mediterranean version elevates the traditional meatloaf into a gourmet dish that’s both satisfying and nutritious.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love Mediterranean Meatloaf because it takes the familiar comfort of classic meatloaf and adds bold, vibrant flavors that make every bite exciting. The combination of feta, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes adds tanginess and depth, while fresh herbs provide a fragrant aroma. It’s juicy, easy to make, and can be enjoyed fresh or as leftovers. This recipe feels both hearty and light, perfect for anyone craving comfort food with a Mediterranean twist.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because it transforms a traditional favorite into something extraordinary. With its rich, savory filling, tender texture, and bright Mediterranean ingredients, it satisfies cravings while offering a unique flavor profile. It’s versatile, wholesome, and pairs beautifully with sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. Whether you’re entertaining guests or cooking for family, this meatloaf is sure to impress.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 55–60 minutes
Total Time: 75–80 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories (per serving): ~320–350 kcal

Cuisine and Course

Cuisine: Mediterranean-inspired
Course: Main Course, Dinner, Lunch

Ingredients

1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or mix of beef and lamb)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs)
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and chopped
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 large egg
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil (for drizzling)
Optional topping: tomato sauce or Greek yogurt drizzle

Simple Cooking Directions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large bowl, combine all meatloaf ingredients except olive oil.
Mix until evenly combined.
Shape into a loaf and place in a greased baking dish.
Drizzle with olive oil.
Bake for 55–60 minutes until cooked through.
Let rest 10 minutes before slicing.
Serve warm, optionally with tomato sauce or Greek yogurt.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a loaf pan or baking dish lightly with olive oil.

Step 2: Prepare Meat Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, feta cheese, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, chopped olives, onion, garlic, egg, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

Step 3: Shape the Loaf

Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared baking dish.
Drizzle the top with olive oil to enhance browning and flavor.

Step 4: Bake the Meatloaf

Bake in the preheated oven for 55–60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Optional: 10 minutes before the end of baking, you can brush the top with tomato sauce for extra flavor.

Step 5: Rest and Slice

Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes to retain juices.
Slice and serve warm.

How to Serve

Serve Mediterranean Meatloaf with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh Greek salad. Drizzle with a bit of tomato sauce, tzatziki, or Greek yogurt for added flavor. It pairs perfectly with a glass of red wine or a light white wine for a complete Mediterranean-inspired meal.

Additional Recipe Tips

Use a mix of beef and lamb for extra richness.
Do not overmix the meat; this keeps the meatloaf tender.
Let the loaf rest after baking to keep it juicy.
For extra flavor, add a splash of lemon juice to the topping.
Leftovers taste great cold or reheated for lunch.

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Substitute ground meat with lentils or chickpeas and add extra feta and vegetables.
Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the meat mixture.
Herb-Forward Version: Add fresh basil, thyme, or rosemary for additional flavor.
Topped Version: Spread pesto or sun-dried tomato sauce on top before baking.

Freezing and Storage

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes or until warmed through.

Special Equipment Needed

Loaf pan or baking dish
Large mixing bowl
Knife and cutting board
Measuring cups and spoons

FAQ

Q1: Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed almonds instead of regular breadcrumbs.

Q2: Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the meatloaf and refrigerate for a few hours before baking.

Q3: Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken works, though cooking time may be slightly shorter.

Q4: How can I keep the meatloaf moist?
Do not overmix the meat and let it rest after baking. Adding feta and olive oil also helps retain moisture.

Q5: Can I add more vegetables?
Yes, finely diced bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms can be incorporated into the mixture.

Conclusion

Mediterranean Meatloaf is a flavorful, hearty, and wholesome dish that elevates traditional meatloaf with the vibrant tastes of the Mediterranean. Juicy, aromatic, and easy to prepare, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners, family meals, or entertaining guests. Packed with sun-dried tomatoes, feta, olives, and fresh herbs, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite and a go-to for anyone seeking a unique and delicious twist on classic comfort food.