If you’re craving a meal that brings the comforting flavors of classic Chicken Cordon Bleu together with the heartiness of meatloaf, you’re in for a real treat. This Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf with Parmesan Sauce Recipe wraps tender ground chicken, savory Black Forest ham, and melting Swiss cheese into one gorgeous loaf, topped off with a luxuriously creamy Parmesan sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds. It’s a perfect dish to impress your family or guests with something familiar yet excitingly new.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe relies on simple, wholesome ingredients that work beautifully together to create a dish bursting with flavor and texture. Each ingredient plays a key role, whether it’s seasoning the meatloaf, adding a delightful melt in your mouth cheese layer, or building that rich sauce that ties everything together.
- Ground chicken: The lean base of the meatloaf that stays juicy and tender when mixed with other ingredients.
- Yellow onion: Adds subtle sweetness and moisture to the meat mixture.
- Garlic: Provides aromatic depth and a little kick to enliven the flavors.
- Egg: Acts as a binder, keeping the meatloaf together during baking.
- Dijon mustard: Adds tangy complexity both in the meat and the sauce.
- Parmesan cheese: Offers salty, nutty richness in both the meatloaf and sauce.
- Fresh parsley: Brightens the dish with a pop of herbal freshness.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
- Panko breadcrumbs: Provides structure and an extra crunchy topping with butter.
- Black Forest ham: Comes in thin slices to layer inside the loaf adding smoky, savory flavor.
- Swiss cheese: Melts beautifully for that gooey, cheesy center.
- Butter (for topping and sauce): Enriches both the breadcrumb topping and the creamy Parmesan sauce.
- All-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce to a luscious texture.
- Milk: Creates the creamy base of the Parmesan sauce.
How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf with Parmesan Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Begin by setting your oven temperature to 350°F (177°C). Grease a standard loaf pan thoroughly to ensure easy removal after baking and prevent sticking. Laying parchment paper in the pan can be helpful for this as well.
Step 2: Make the Meatloaf Mixture
In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, finely diced yellow onion, minced garlic, beaten egg, Dijon mustard, finely grated Parmesan cheese, fresh chopped parsley, salt, black pepper, and half of the panko breadcrumbs. Mix gently but thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated, taking care not to overwork the meat which could lead to a tougher texture.
Step 3: Assemble and Roll
Transfer the meat mixture onto a large piece of parchment paper and flatten it into a neat rectangle. Layer the Black Forest ham slices evenly across the surface, followed by the Swiss cheese slices, creating that iconic Chicken Cordon Bleu flavor combination inside. Using the edges of the parchment paper, carefully roll the meat into a tight log, making sure the filling stays inside. Place the meatloaf seam-side down into the prepared loaf pan.
Step 4: Top and Bake
Mix the remaining panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and a small pinch of salt, then sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the meatloaf for a golden, flavorful crust. Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for approximately 75 minutes. Use a meat thermometer inserted into the center to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C), which guarantees it is cooked through and safe to eat.
Step 5: Make the Parmesan Sauce
While the meatloaf bakes, prepare the exquisite Parmesan sauce. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat and whisk in the all-purpose flour. Cook this roux for about one minute to remove the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens to a smooth and creamy consistency. Stir in Dijon mustard and Parmesan cheese until melted and silky, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Serve
Once the meatloaf is finished baking, allow it to rest for a few minutes to let the juices redistribute. Carefully slice the loaf and serve each portion drizzled generously with the warm Parmesan sauce. This step is when all the flavors truly come together into an unforgettable bite.
How to Serve Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf with Parmesan Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
For a finishing touch, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives over the sliced meatloaf and Parmesan sauce. A few sprigs of fresh herbs add not only a burst of color but a refreshing contrast to the rich, creamy flavors that define this dish.
Side Dishes
This Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf with Parmesan Sauce Recipe is wonderfully complemented by classic sides like garlic mashed potatoes or roasted green beans. A crisp garden salad or some steamed asparagus can also add a light, fresh balance to the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
To elevate the presentation, consider serving individual portions topped with a small salad of arugula and cherry tomatoes dressed simply with lemon and olive oil. You can also unwrap the meatloaf slices in folded parchment paper with sauce on top for a charming, rustic look at casual dinner parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your delicious meal, store any leftover Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf with Parmesan Sauce Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days while maintaining its flavor and texture.
Freezing
If you want to prepare this dish in advance or save leftovers for longer, wrap the cooled meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months. Freeze the sauce separately in a freezer-safe container to preserve the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat slices gently in the microwave or oven at a low temperature. To revive the sauce, warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until smooth. Adding a splash of milk can help maintain its creamy consistency if needed.
FAQs
Can I use regular ground chicken or ground turkey in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey if you prefer, but ground chicken is often juicier and milder, which pairs perfectly with the ham and cheese in this recipe.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and a gluten-free flour blend for the sauce, and you’ll have a delicious gluten-free Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf with Parmesan Sauce Recipe without compromising taste.
Can I prepare the meatloaf mixture ahead of time?
Definitely. You can mix the ingredients and assemble the meatloaf a day before baking. Keep it tightly wrapped and refrigerated until you’re ready to bake it fresh.
What is the best type of Swiss cheese to use?
Traditional Swiss cheese or Gruyère are great choices because they melt smoothly and add a nutty, slightly sweet flavor that complements the ham beautifully.
How can I tell when the meatloaf is fully cooked?
The most reliable method is using a meat thermometer inserted into the center—once it reads 165°F (74°C), your Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf with Parmesan Sauce Recipe is perfectly cooked and safe to eat.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf with Parmesan Sauce Recipe is a delightful twist on two classic dishes, blending comfort and elegance into every bite. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a special occasion, it’s sure to become one of your favorites. Don’t hesitate to dive in and enjoy the satisfying flavors and textures that make this recipe truly memorable!
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Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf with Parmesan Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf is a delicious twist on the classic dish, combining ground chicken with tangy Dijon mustard, ham, Swiss cheese, and a flavorful Parmesan breadcrumb topping. Baked to perfection and served with a creamy mustard Parmesan sauce, it makes for an impressive and comforting meal perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
- 2 lbs ground chicken
- ½ small yellow onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs, divided
- 6 slices Black Forest ham
- 6 slices Swiss cheese
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups milk
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- â…“ cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and grease a loaf pan to prepare for baking the meatloaf.
- Make Meatloaf Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, finely diced onion, minced garlic, beaten egg, Dijon mustard, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, salt, black pepper, and ¼ cup of the panko breadcrumbs. Mix everything thoroughly until well incorporated.
- Assemble and Roll: Lay a large piece of parchment paper on a flat surface and spread the meat mixture into a rectangle. Layer the slices of Black Forest ham and Swiss cheese evenly over the meat mixture. Using the parchment paper, carefully roll the mixture into a log shape, ensuring the cheese and ham are enclosed inside. Transfer the rolled meatloaf to the prepared loaf pan, placing it seam-side down.
- Top and Bake: In a small bowl, mix the remaining ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter and a pinch of salt. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the meatloaf. Bake in the preheated oven for 75 minutes or until an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) is reached.
- Make Sauce: While the meatloaf bakes, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk and continue cooking until the sauce thickens. Stir in the Dijon mustard and Parmesan cheese until smooth and melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Once the meatloaf is done baking, allow it to rest for a few minutes. Slice the meatloaf and serve it warm with the creamy mustard Parmesan sauce on the side.
Notes
- Make sure the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Using parchment paper for rolling helps keep the meatloaf together and makes transferring easier.
- You can substitute Black Forest ham with any similar deli ham if unavailable.
- The sauce can be prepared ahead of time and reheated gently before serving.
- For a crispier topping, broil the meatloaf for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, watching closely to avoid burning.
