This Italian Garlicky Meatloaf is packed with flavors of garlic, oregano, and Parmesan, making each bite absolutely mouthwatering. It’s topped with a rich marinara sauce that perfectly complements the savory meatloaf, making it an irresistible dish for anyone who loves Italian-inspired meals.
Whether you’re serving this dish for a family dinner or a special gathering, it’s bound to impress. The balance of flavors and textures – from the tender meatloaf to the tangy marinara – offers a comforting yet sophisticated take on a classic dish. Plus, it’s easy to make, and can be enjoyed with a side of vegetables or a light salad.
Full Recipe:
Directions:
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
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In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, oregano, garlic powder, minced garlic, onion powder, parsley, milk, egg, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
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Mix everything together until well combined. Do not overwork the meat mixture to keep it tender.
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Shape the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in a greased loaf pan.
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Pour marinara sauce over the top of the meatloaf.
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Bake for 1 hour, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
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Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 60 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Kcal: 380 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
Savory and Flavorful Appeal
If you’re looking for a hearty, flavorful meal that doesn’t take hours to prepare, then Italian Garlicky Meatloaf is the perfect dish for you. Combining the richness of ground beef with the aromatic flavors of garlic, Parmesan, and herbs, this meatloaf offers a savory, satisfying meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this recipe is a family favorite that never disappoints.
A Quick and Flavorful Meal
Meatloaf is a classic comfort food that is both filling and versatile. This Italian-inspired version of the traditional meatloaf takes things up a notch with a blend of Italian seasonings like garlic, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. The garlic infuses the meat with a rich, savory aroma, while the Parmesan adds a delightful sharpness that enhances the overall flavor. It’s a simple recipe that doesn’t require any exotic ingredients, and many of the items you need can be found in your pantry. This is what makes it a great go-to recipe for busy weeknights or for when you’re craving a satisfying, no-fuss meal.
The Versatility of Meatloaf
What’s great about this meatloaf is its versatility. You can tweak it to suit your taste or dietary preferences. For example, if you prefer leaner meat, you can swap out ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. The breadcrumbs add a light texture to the meatloaf, helping to bind the ingredients together, and if you have gluten-free preferences, you can easily substitute with gluten-free breadcrumbs. The addition of eggs helps to keep the meatloaf moist, ensuring it won’t dry out during the baking process. The dish can be made ahead and reheated, which makes it an excellent option for meal prepping. Plus, the leftovers taste even better the next day, making it ideal for lunch or a second dinner.
Perfect for Family Dinners
Italian Garlicky Meatloaf is an excellent choice for family dinners, as it’s easy to make and can feed a crowd. It pairs perfectly with a variety of sides, from roasted vegetables to mashed potatoes or a simple green salad. The flavors in the meatloaf meld together beautifully, and the addition of ketchup on top creates a tangy glaze that elevates the taste even more. The meatloaf is deliciously satisfying, and it’s so simple to prepare that even the busiest home cooks can whip it up with ease.
Freezer-Friendly Option
One of the best things about this Italian Garlicky Meatloaf is its freezer-friendly nature. Once baked, you can slice the meatloaf, let it cool, and freeze individual portions for later. This is perfect for busy families or anyone who enjoys having homemade meals on hand for when you don’t have time to cook. To reheat, simply pop the slices in the microwave, and you’ll have a comforting meal in no time. This makes it an excellent choice for batch cooking or meal prepping for the week ahead.
Perfect for Customization
Another great aspect of this recipe is its adaptability. You can add other ingredients to the meat mixture to make it your own. For example, you could incorporate finely chopped vegetables, like onions, bell peppers, or zucchini, to boost the nutrition and flavor profile of the dish. You could also experiment with different cheeses, such as mozzarella, to create a more decadent version of the meatloaf. The meatloaf can also be made with other types of ground meat, such as turkey or lamb, if you prefer.
Ideal for Leftovers
One of the reasons why this recipe is so beloved by home cooks is that it actually tastes better the next day. Meatloaf has a way of developing deeper, richer flavors overnight, and when served as leftovers, it can be enjoyed in various ways. You can serve the meatloaf slices in a sandwich with some lettuce, tomato, and mustard for a quick lunch, or use it as a topping for a salad. It’s also great paired with a side of pasta or a warm, crusty bread to make a hearty meal.
The Simplicity and Satisfaction of the Recipe
What makes this Italian Garlicky Meatloaf so special is how simple it is to make while still delivering big on flavor. The ingredients are common pantry staples, and the process is straightforward, making it an ideal recipe for even the most beginner home cooks. There’s no need to worry about complicated techniques or unusual ingredients – just mix, mold, bake, and enjoy. The result is a deliciously tender and flavorful meatloaf that is sure to satisfy.
Conclusion: A Timeless Classic with Italian Flair
In conclusion, Italian Garlicky Meatloaf is a timeless recipe that brings the comforting, hearty qualities of traditional meatloaf while incorporating the bold flavors of Italian cuisine. It’s simple to prepare, adaptable to different dietary preferences, and perfect for a family dinner or meal prepping. With its rich, savory taste and ease of preparation, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your household, delivering satisfaction and comfort every time you make it.
Whether you’re new to cooking or an experienced chef, this meatloaf recipe is guaranteed to impress. It’s the perfect balance of flavorful ingredients, tender texture, and deliciousness that everyone will love.
