Mediterranean Lamb Meatloaf with Tzatziki

This Mediterranean lamb meatloaf is a juicy, flavorful twist on a classic, blending rich ground lamb with cool, garlicky tzatziki, tangy feta, sweet-tart sundried tomatoes, and fresh herbs like mint and parsley. Moist and tender with just enough structure from breadcrumbs and eggs, it’s infused with warm spices like coriander or allspice for depth. As it bakes, it fills the kitchen with savory, herbaceous aromas, and each slice delivers bold Mediterranean flavor with a creamy, aromatic finish—perfect topped with extra tzatziki and served alongside lemon potatoes or a fresh salad.

Ingredients:

• 3 pounds ground lamb
• 1 cup tzatziki sauce (plus extra for serving)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 large eggs
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/2 cup sundried tomatoes, chopped
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Olive oil (for greasing the pan)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a loaf pan with olive oil or line it with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground lamb, tzatziki sauce, breadcrumbs, eggs, onion, garlic, parsley, mint, feta cheese, sundried tomatoes, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
3. Transfer the lamb mixture into the prepared loaf pan and press it down evenly.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for about 60-75 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the meatloaf is cooked through.
5. Let the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
6. Serve the meatloaf slices with extra tzatziki sauce on the side.

Alternative flavor Profiles

Replace cumin in the lamb meatloaf recipe with ground coriander or a combination of other spices to maintain a similar flavor profile.

Here are a few alternatives:

1. Ground Coriander: Use an equal amount (2 teaspoons) of ground coriander. It has a mild, slightly citrusy flavor that complements lamb well.
2. Garam Masala: Use 1-2 teaspoons of garam masala. This spice blend includes cumin but also adds depth with other spices.
3. Fennel Seeds: Use 1 teaspoon of ground fennel seeds for a sweet, slightly licorice-like flavor.
4. Allspice: Use 1 teaspoon of ground allspice. It offers a warm, complex flavor that can substitute cumin in Mediterranean dishes.
5. Caraway Seeds: Use 1 teaspoon of ground caraway seeds. It has an earthy, slightly peppery flavor similar to cumin.

Choose the alternative that best fits your taste preferences and what you have available.