Incredible Cheddar Parmesan Zucchini Meatloaf : Moist, Cheesy & Easy!

If you’re looking for a twist on the classic meatloaf that’s both hearty and loaded with hidden veggies, this Cheddar Parmesan Zucchini Meatloaf is about to become your new favorite dinner recipe. Moist, flavorful, and packed with nutritious ingredients, this meatloaf with zucchini is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or even impressing guests with something a little different.

Whether you’re trying to use up summer squash, sneak more vegetables into your meals, or just searching for creative zucchini meatloaf recipes, this dish hits all the right notes.

Let’s dive into what makes this recipe a game-changer—and how to make it perfectly every time.

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Why You’ll Love This Cheddar Parmesan Zucchini Meatloaf

There are so many reasons to keep this recipe on repeat:

• Moist & flavorful: The shredded zucchini keeps the meatloaf juicy, while cheddar and Parmesan add layers of umami.
• High-protein & low-carb: Great for low-carb, keto, or balanced diets.
• Versatile: Works well with beef, pork, turkey, or a combo.
• Easy meal prep: Slices and stores well for weekday lunches or quick dinners.
• Great way to use summer produce: If your garden is overflowing with squash, this is your go-to recipe.

It pairs well with wholesome sides like Garlic Butter Corn with Melty Cheese or Garlicky Kale with White Beans.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this zucchini meatloaf, gather these simple ingredients:

• 1½ lbs ground beef or ground pork (or a mix)
• 1 medium zucchini, grated and squeezed of excess water
• ½ cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 eggs
• ½ cup almond flour or breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• Salt & pepper, to taste
• Optional: ketchup or BBQ glaze for topping

Want to explore more ground pork and zucchini recipes? Try mixing pork and beef here for added flavor and moisture.

How to Make This Zucchini Meatloaf

Making meatloaf with zucchini is just as easy as the classic version. Here’s how:

Step 1 – Prep the zucchini

Grate the zucchini and squeeze out as much water as possible using a cheesecloth or paper towel. This keeps your meatloaf from being soggy.

Step 2 – Mix the ingredients

In a large bowl, combine ground meat, zucchini, cheeses, onion, garlic, eggs, parsley, almond flour (or breadcrumbs), Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings. Mix just until combined—don’t overwork the meat.

Step 3 – Shape the loaf

Place the mixture on a lined baking sheet or in a loaf pan. Shape it into a firm loaf.

Step 4 – Bake

Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 45–55 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

Optional: Add a ketchup or BBQ glaze in the last 10 minutes of baking.

Step 5 – Rest & serve

Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with your favorite sides!

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Zucchini Meatloaf Recipe Tips

Here are a few expert tips to make this meatloaf perfect every time:

• Don’t skip squeezing the zucchini. Too much moisture will ruin the texture.
• Use a mix of meats. Beef and pork or even turkey and pork give great flavor.
• Go low-carb. Almond flour is a great gluten-free substitute for breadcrumbs.
• Add a glaze. If you love classic meatloaf, glaze the top with ketchup, BBQ sauce, or even tomato chutney.

Variations to Try

1. Meatloaf with Zucchini and Squash

Want to use both zucchini and yellow squash? Go for it! Just keep the total volume the same, and make sure both are well-drained. A great idea for those seeking squash and zucchini recipes with meat.

2. Cheesy Meat Stuffed Zucchini

Turn this into meat stuffed zucchini by hollowing out zucchini halves and filling them with the seasoned meat mixture. Bake at 375°F for 25–30 minutes. This is a fun twist the kids will love!

Also try Mini Halloween Pizzas for a creative weeknight dinner.

3. Ground Pork and Zucchini Meatballs

Shape the mixture into balls and bake or pan-fry for meatballs instead. Great with pasta, rice, or in wraps.

Serving Ideas for Zucchini Meatloaf

This zucchini meatloaf recipe is versatile and pairs well with tons of sides:

• Creamy Mashed Potato Puffs – soft inside, crisp outside
• Garlic Herb Roasted Vegetables – to keep things light and flavorful
• Pumpkin Cottage Cheese Pancakes – for a breakfast-for-dinner vibe
• A simple side salad and crusty bread

Storage & Meal Prep

Refrigerator:
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer:
Slice and wrap individual portions for freezing. Great for grab-and-go lunches.

Reheating:
Warm slices in the oven at 300°F or microwave for 1–2 minutes.

This meatloaf is ideal for batch cooking. Double the recipe and freeze one for later.

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FAQs

Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey or chicken works well but may need extra seasoning for richness.

Is this keto or low-carb?

If you use almond flour, this meatloaf is low in carbs and fits keto or paleo diets.

Can I skip the cheese?

You can, but the cheddar and Parmesan help bind and flavor the loaf. Consider nutritional yeast for a dairy-free swap.

What if I don’t have zucchini?

Try grated carrot or yellow squash instead. It’ll slightly change the flavor but still keep it moist.

More Zucchini Dinner Recipes to Try

If you loved this dish, you’ll enjoy these other zucchini-filled and meat-packed meals:

• Cheesy Zucchini Bread – a savory side to any soup or stew
• Pumpkin Zucchini Bread – perfect for using up extra squash
• Banana Zucchini Muffins – sweet and packed with hidden veggies
• Keto Salami Roll-Ups – low-carb, high-protein snack

Or explore the full Dinner Recipes archive for more family favorites.

Final Thoughts: The Ultimate Veggie-Packed Meatloaf

This Cheddar Parmesan Zucchini Meatloaf isn’t just a clever way to use up summer zucchini—it’s a hearty, flavorful, and nutrient-dense dinner that hits the spot every time. Whether you’re looking for meatloaf with zucchini recipes, new ground pork and zucchini recipes, or just a protein-rich meal the whole family will eat, this one is a winner.

Once you try it, you’ll want it on repeat every week.

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