This Mediterranean-inspired meatloaf brings a fresh twist to a classic comfort dish by incorporating creamy, salty feta cheese right in the center. The feta melts slightly during baking, creating a delightful surprise in every bite, while the herbs and vegetables add moisture and flavor throughout. The golden crust, speckled with oregano and thyme, adds rustic charm to the plate.
Perfect for a cozy family dinner or meal prep for the week, this dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad. Its hearty yet vibrant flavor profile makes it a satisfying choice that feels both indulgent and wholesome.
Full Recipe
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500g lean minced beef
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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1 clove garlic, minced
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1 medium carrot, grated
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50g feta cheese, crumbled
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1 egg, beaten
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50g breadcrumbs
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1 tablespoon tomato purée
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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1 teaspoon dried thyme
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper
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Olive oil, for drizzling
Directions:
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Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) fan/gas mark 4.
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In a large bowl, combine the minced beef, onion, garlic, grated carrot, breadcrumbs, egg, tomato purée, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well until evenly combined.
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Take half of the meat mixture and press it into a loaf shape on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
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Scatter the crumbled feta evenly over the meat layer.
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Top with the remaining meat mixture, carefully sealing the edges to encase the feta inside.
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Drizzle a little olive oil over the top and smooth the surface with your hands or a spoon.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and golden on top.
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Let the meatloaf rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 45 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour
Kcal: Approximately 320 kcal per serving | Servings: 4 servings
Introduction to Meatloaf with Feta
Meatloaf is a timeless comfort food that has graced dinner tables for generations. What makes this particular version unique and exciting is the addition of feta cheese, which elevates the traditional meatloaf by introducing a creamy, tangy surprise at its core. Combining classic meatloaf ingredients with Mediterranean flavors such as oregano, thyme, and feta cheese results in a dish that feels both familiar and fresh. This recipe brings the best of both worlds—a hearty, satisfying meal with a vibrant, slightly salty twist that delights the palate.
The Role of Feta in Meatloaf
Feta cheese is renowned for its crumbly texture and sharp, salty flavor. Originating from Greece, this cheese is made primarily from sheep’s milk and sometimes mixed with goat’s milk, giving it a distinctive taste that balances richness with a pleasant tang. When incorporated inside the meatloaf, feta cheese melts gently but maintains enough texture to contrast beautifully with the soft, dense beef. This contrast is a game-changer compared to traditional meatloaf recipes that often rely solely on beef and breadcrumbs.
The feta also adds moisture to the dish, preventing the meatloaf from drying out during cooking—a common pitfall for meatloaf lovers. Its salty and slightly tangy profile pairs wonderfully with the mild sweetness of grated carrot and aromatic herbs such as oregano and thyme, creating a complex layering of flavors.
Why This Meatloaf Stands Out
Many people think of meatloaf as a simple, often overlooked dish, but this recipe transforms it into something more sophisticated without making it complicated. The mix of fresh herbs and feta gives it a Mediterranean flair that makes it versatile and suitable for many occasions. Whether served as a family dinner or packed for a work lunch, this meatloaf offers a balance of comfort and elegance.
The combination of ingredients is not only flavorful but also practical. Ground beef provides protein and richness, while the carrot adds natural sweetness and moisture. Breadcrumbs and egg bind everything together, ensuring the meatloaf holds its shape while staying tender inside. The feta surprise in the middle is what brings everything to life and sets this recipe apart.
Nutritional Benefits
While meatloaf is often considered indulgent comfort food, this recipe balances taste and nutrition. Lean minced beef provides a good source of protein and important nutrients like iron and zinc. The grated carrot adds fiber and vitamins, boosting the health quotient subtly. Feta cheese, though rich in flavor and fat, offers calcium and protein, contributing to the meal’s nutritional value.
One advantage of this recipe is the portion control it naturally provides—cutting the meatloaf into slices helps manage serving sizes and prevents overeating. Additionally, pairing it with a side of vegetables or salad can round out the meal with fiber and additional vitamins, making it a wholesome dinner option.
Cooking Tips for Best Results
Achieving the perfect texture and flavor in meatloaf can be tricky, but there are some simple tips to keep in mind. First, avoid overmixing the meat mixture to prevent a dense and tough loaf. Gently folding ingredients together maintains tenderness. Using fresh herbs, rather than dried, can boost the aroma and taste significantly, though dried herbs work well in a pinch.
When stuffing the feta, it’s important to seal the meatloaf properly around the cheese to avoid leakage during baking. A tight seal also ensures that the cheese remains the star surprise at the center of the loaf.
Allowing the meatloaf to rest for a few minutes after baking helps the juices redistribute and makes slicing easier. For an extra touch, drizzling a little olive oil on top before baking helps achieve a beautiful golden crust.
Serving Suggestions
This feta-stuffed meatloaf pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Classic mashed potatoes or creamy polenta complement the hearty nature of the meatloaf, while roasted vegetables add a nice caramelized contrast. For a lighter approach, a crisp green salad or steamed green beans with a squeeze of lemon work well.
To bring out the Mediterranean vibes, consider serving it alongside a fresh tomato and cucumber salad dressed with olive oil and lemon juice. This contrast of cool, fresh salad with warm, savory meatloaf balances the meal perfectly.
Variations and Customizations
One of the joys of meatloaf is how adaptable it is to different tastes and dietary needs. For example, you could swap beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Vegetarians can recreate the concept using lentils, mushrooms, or textured vegetable protein as a base and use a plant-based feta alternative.
If feta is not your favorite, other cheeses such as goat cheese or halloumi can be used to provide a similar tangy, creamy texture. You can also experiment with herbs and spices—adding rosemary, basil, or smoked paprika can shift the flavor profile.
For an extra punch, incorporate finely chopped olives or sun-dried tomatoes inside the meat mixture. These ingredients tie beautifully with feta and enhance the Mediterranean character of the dish.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
If you love comfort food but want to add a gourmet twist, this meatloaf with feta cheese is an excellent choice. It is straightforward to prepare, uses accessible ingredients, and yields a stunning result that impresses family and guests alike. The combination of hearty meat, fresh herbs, and creamy feta ensures every bite is full of flavor and texture.
This recipe also proves that meatloaf doesn’t have to be dull or dry—when done right, it can be a star centerpiece on any dinner table. Its rich taste and balanced ingredients make it a satisfying meal for all ages.
Conclusion
Meatloaf with feta cheese is a delightful fusion of classic comfort and Mediterranean zest. It takes a beloved traditional dish and transforms it with fresh herbs and a creamy cheese filling, providing a wonderful contrast in flavor and texture. This recipe is approachable for cooks of all levels and flexible enough to adapt to different dietary preferences.
Whether you’re cooking for your family, preparing a meal for friends, or simply craving something comforting and flavorful, this meatloaf is sure to satisfy. With its rich taste, hearty ingredients, and beautiful presentation, it’s a recipe worth adding to your regular rotation. By incorporating simple Mediterranean elements like feta, oregano, and thyme, this dish elevates the humble meatloaf to a truly memorable meal.
