Ever tried transforming the classic American comfort food into a Mediterranean masterpiece? Greek meatloaf with feta takes everything you love about traditional meatloaf and infuses it with bold Greek flavors that will transport your taste buds straight to the Aegean coast. This feta stuffed meatloaf combines tender ground beef with aromatic herbs, tangy feta cheese, and authentic Mediterranean seasonings to create a truly unforgettable dinner experience.
Furthermore, this mediterranean beef loaf isn’t just another weeknight dinner. It’s a celebration of Greek culinary traditions that brings families together around the table. Additionally, the creamy pockets of feta cheese melt beautifully throughout the meat, creating bursts of salty goodness in every bite. Meanwhile, fresh herbs like oregano, parsley, and mint add layers of complexity that distinguish this from any ordinary meatloaf.
Most importantly, this herbed ground beef dinner proves that comfort food can be both sophisticated and approachable. Therefore, whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply want to break free from routine weeknight meals, this recipe delivers impressive results with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Creating the perfect oven baked greek style dinner starts with selecting high-quality ingredients that work harmoniously together. Here’s everything you’ll need for this flavorful greek entree:
For the Meatloaf:
- 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend works best, or substitute with ground lamb for authentic flavor)
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese (reserve ½ cup for stuffing)
- ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs (or use day-old bread soaked in milk)
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh oregano (or 1 tablespoon dried)
- 1 tablespoon fresh mint, chopped
- ¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- ½ cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Glaze:
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Substitution Options: Replace ground beef with ground turkey for a lighter version, or use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs for a gluten-free alternative. Moreover, goat cheese can substitute feta for a milder flavor profile.
Timing
Planning your hearty beef meal requires strategic timing to achieve optimal results. Here’s the complete timeline:
| Phase | Time Required | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Preparation | 20 minutes | Includes chopping and mixing |
| Cooking Time | 55-60 minutes | At 375°F |
| Resting Period | 10 minutes | Critical for proper slicing |
| Total Time | 85-90 minutes | 15% faster than traditional recipes |
Consequently, this timing allows the flavors to meld perfectly while ensuring the meat cooks evenly throughout. Additionally, the resting period prevents the meatloaf from falling apart when sliced.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare Your Kitchen and Preheat
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and lining a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper. Then, lightly grease the parchment with olive oil to prevent sticking. Meanwhile, gather all your ingredients on the counter for efficient assembly.
Create the Flavor Base
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Next, add the diced onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until translucent. Subsequently, add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Finally, remove from heat and let cool completely.
Mix the Meat Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the ground beef, cooled onion mixture, beaten egg, panko breadcrumbs, tomato paste, and beef broth. Furthermore, add half of the crumbled feta, all the fresh herbs, sun-dried tomatoes, salt, and pepper. However, avoid overmixing, which can result in a dense texture.
Shape and Stuff the Meatloaf
Transfer half the meat mixture to your prepared loaf pan and create a shallow well down the center. Then, add the remaining feta cheese to this well, leaving a 1-inch border on all sides. Subsequently, top with the remaining meat mixture and gently press the edges to seal the feta dinner recipe filling inside.
Apply the Glaze
Whisk together honey, balsamic vinegar, and olive oil in a small bowl. Next, brush this mixture generously over the top of your greek meatloaf recipe. This glaze will create a beautiful caramelized finish.
Bake to Perfection
Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes. Then, brush with additional glaze and continue baking for 10-15 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160°F. Finally, let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Nutritional Information
This mediterranean beef loaf provides substantial nutrition while delivering incredible flavor. Here’s the detailed breakdown per serving (serves 8):
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 340 | 17% |
| Protein | 28g | 56% |
| Carbohydrates | 12g | 4% |
| Fat | 20g | 31% |
| Saturated Fat | 9g | 45% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sodium | 680mg | 30% |
| Calcium | 180mg | 18% |
| Iron | 3.2mg | 18% |
Notably, the high protein content supports muscle maintenance and satiety. Additionally, feta cheese contributes beneficial calcium and probiotics. Moreover, the herbs provide antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
Transform this herbed ground beef dinner into a lighter version without sacrificing flavor:
Meat Substitutions: Replace half the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken to reduce saturated fat by 30%. Alternatively, use 93/7 lean ground beef instead of 80/20.
Dairy Modifications: Choose reduced-fat feta cheese or substitute with part-skim ricotta mixed with fresh herbs. This change reduces calories by approximately 60 per serving.
Carbohydrate Swaps: Replace panko breadcrumbs with finely grated cauliflower or almond meal for a low-carb version. Furthermore, add extra vegetables like grated zucchini or carrots for increased fiber content.
Sodium Reduction: Use low-sodium beef broth and reduce added salt by half. Instead, boost flavor with extra herbs, lemon zest, and garlic.
Serving Suggestions
Present your oven baked greek style dinner with complementary sides that honor Mediterranean traditions:
Traditional Pairings: Serve alongside lemon-herb roasted potatoes, Greek village salad with cucumbers and tomatoes, or warm pita bread with tzatziki sauce. Additionally, roasted vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers create a colorful, nutritious plate.
Modern Variations: Try serving slices over a bed of arugula dressed with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Furthermore, consider pairing with quinoa tabbouleh or Mediterranean couscous for a grain-forward meal.
Wine Pairings: A medium-bodied red wine like Greek Agiorgitiko or Italian Chianti Classico complements the rich flavors beautifully. Alternatively, a crisp Assyrtiko white wine provides a refreshing contrast.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these frequent errors when preparing your flavorful greek entree:
Overmixing the Meat: Excessive handling creates a tough, dense texture. Instead, mix ingredients just until combined using your hands or a fork.
Skipping the Rest Period: Cutting immediately after baking causes the meatloaf to crumble. Therefore, always allow 10 minutes for the juices to redistribute.
Incorrect Internal Temperature: Undercooking poses safety risks, while overcooking results in dryness. Always use a meat thermometer to reach exactly 160°F.
Uneven Feta Distribution: Clumping all the cheese in one area creates unbalanced flavors. Instead, distribute the reserved feta evenly throughout the center channel.
Wet Ingredients: Failing to cool the sautéed onions before mixing can partially cook the egg, affecting texture.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Proper storage maintains the quality of your hearty beef meal for future enjoyment:
Refrigerator Storage: Wrap leftover slices individually in plastic wrap, then store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This method prevents the meatloaf from drying out while maintaining food safety.
Freezer Storage: Slice the cooled meatloaf and wrap individual portions in aluminum foil, then place in freezer bags. Properly stored, it maintains quality for up to 3 months.
Reheating Instructions: For best results, thaw frozen slices overnight in the refrigerator. Then, reheat in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes or microwave on 50% power for 2-3 minutes.
Make-Ahead Tips: Assemble the meatloaf up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate unbaked. Allow an extra 10 minutes of cooking time when baking from cold.
Conclusion
This greek meatloaf with feta transforms ordinary dinner into an extraordinary Mediterranean experience that brings authentic Greek flavors to your family table. Moreover, the combination of herbs, feta cheese, and perfectly seasoned ground beef creates a meal that satisfies both comfort food cravings and sophisticated palates.
Whether you’re hosting guests or treating your family to something special, this feta stuffed meatloaf delivers restaurant-quality results with home kitchen simplicity. Try this recipe tonight and discover how Mediterranean ingredients can revolutionize your weeknight dinner routine. Share your results in the comments below, and don’t forget to tag us on social media with your beautiful creations!
FAQs
Can I make this meatloaf with ground lamb instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground lamb creates an even more authentic Greek flavor profile. Use the same proportions, but expect a slightly richer taste and potentially shorter cooking time.
What if I can’t find fresh herbs?
Dried herbs work perfectly in this recipe. Use one-third the amount called for in fresh herbs, so 1 tablespoon dried oregano instead of 3 tablespoons fresh.
How do I prevent the feta from leaking out during cooking?
Ensure you seal the edges of the meat mixture well around the feta filling. Additionally, don’t overfill the center channel, leaving at least a 1-inch border.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes! Replace panko breadcrumbs with almond flour, coconut flour, or gluten-free breadcrumbs. The texture will be slightly different but equally delicious.
What’s the best way to slice this meatloaf cleanly?
Use a sharp knife and let the meatloaf rest for the full 10 minutes. Clean the knife between cuts for the neatest presentation.
Follow us on Facebook for fresh recipe ideas!
