Parmesan Meatloaf baked in a glass loaf pan

May be an image of shepherd's pie

Parmesan Meatloaf Baked in a Glass Loaf Pan: A Classic with an Italian Twist

There’s something deeply comforting about a well-made meatloaf — it’s hearty, flavorful, and evokes the feeling of home-cooked goodness. But when you add Parmesan cheese to the mix, the humble dish transforms into something truly special. The Parmesan Meatloaf baked in a glass loaf pan combines traditional meatloaf ingredients with the nutty, savory depth of Parmesan and Italian herbs, all baked to juicy perfection in a clear glass pan that ensures even cooking and a beautiful golden crust.

Below is a step-by-step guide to making this satisfying dish that’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep for the week ahead.

🧄 Ingredients You’ll Need

(Serves 4–6 people)

For the Meatloaf Mixture:

1 ½ pounds (680 g) ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
¾ cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-style)
½ cup milk
1 large egg
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional for freshness)

For the Topping:

½ cup ketchup
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon Dijon or yellow mustard
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan (optional, for a crisp cheesy top)

🧤 Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Glass Pan

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly grease a glass loaf pan (9×5 inches) with butter or nonstick spray.
Using a glass pan is ideal for this recipe because it distributes heat evenly, helping the meatloaf cook through gently without burning the edges, while also allowing you to see when it’s done — a visual bonus!

Step 2: Soak the Breadcrumbs

In a medium bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk, letting them soak for about 5 minutes.
This step ensures a tender, moist texture. The breadcrumbs absorb the liquid and prevent the meatloaf from becoming dense or dry.

Step 3: Mix the Meatloaf Base

In a large mixing bowl, add the ground beef, soaked breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and parsley.

Use your hands or a fork to gently combine everything — avoid overmixing, as this can make the meatloaf tough. You want just enough mixing to distribute the ingredients evenly.