This Italian Meatloaf is the ultimate comfort food, featuring a hearty blend of beef and pork, seasoned with classic Italian herbs and topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella. It’s the perfect combination of savory, cheesy, and rich flavors that will satisfy every craving.
For a complete meal, serve the meatloaf with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or a side of pasta. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, Sunday family meals, or any occasion where you want something filling and flavorful. The best part? It’s easy to make, yet impressive enough to serve to guests. It’s a dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table.
Full Recipe:
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1 lb ground beef
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1/2 lb ground pork
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1/2 cup breadcrumbs
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1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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2 large eggs
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1/4 cup milk
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1 cup marinara sauce (for topping)
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1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
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In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk, then add to the meat mixture. Use your hands or a spoon to combine until fully incorporated.
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Form the meat mixture into a loaf shape and place it in a greased baking dish.
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Pour 1/2 cup of marinara sauce over the top of the meatloaf, then bake for 40 minutes.
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After 40 minutes, remove the meatloaf from the oven and top with shredded mozzarella cheese. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with the remaining marinara sauce on the side.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 50 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
The Ultimate Italian Meatloaf: A Comforting, Flavorful Classic
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can beat the timeless appeal of meatloaf. The Italian Meatloaf, with its rich blend of beef and pork, enhanced by aromatic herbs, marinara sauce, and gooey mozzarella cheese, elevates the traditional meatloaf to new heights. This Italian version is infused with all the flavors we love from Italian cuisine, offering a unique spin on a beloved classic.
This recipe combines the best of both worlds: the hearty, satisfying nature of a traditional meatloaf and the bold, savory flavors of Italy. Perfectly balanced, it provides a comforting meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner, a Sunday family gathering, or even a special occasion, this Italian Meatloaf will impress everyone at the table.
Why Italian Meatloaf Is a Must-Try
Traditional meatloaf is a quintessential American dish, loved for its simplicity and heartiness. However, when you add Italian ingredients like Parmesan cheese, fresh herbs, and marinara sauce, you get a dish that’s even more flavorful and vibrant. The combination of pork and beef provides a rich, juicy texture, while the addition of Italian spices and cheese creates layers of flavor.
The beauty of Italian Meatloaf lies in its versatility. You can make it as mild or as bold as you like, adjusting the seasoning to suit your preferences. Some people like to add a bit of garlic or red pepper flakes for a little extra kick, while others might prefer a more traditional, herbaceous flavor profile with parsley, oregano, and basil. With its rich tomato-based sauce and cheesy topping, this meatloaf is always a crowd-pleaser.
The Importance of Quality Ingredients
For this Italian Meatloaf to truly shine, the quality of your ingredients is key. Opt for freshly grated Parmesan cheese and high-quality mozzarella for the best texture and flavor. Fresh parsley and oregano will add a punch of bright, aromatic flavor that dried herbs can’t quite match.
The choice of meat also plays an important role. A mix of ground beef and pork offers the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness. If you prefer, you can use all beef or leaner cuts, though the richness of the pork does make a difference in the final result. Fresh marinara sauce made from ripe tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil adds a depth of flavor that pre-made sauce simply can’t replicate.
Tips for Perfecting Your Italian Meatloaf
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Don’t Overmix: When combining the meat and seasonings, be careful not to overmix. Overworking the mixture can result in a tough meatloaf. Gently combine everything until it just holds together.
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Rest the Meatloaf: After baking, let your meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a moist, tender texture.
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Customize the Toppings: While mozzarella cheese is a delicious and classic topping, feel free to get creative. You could add a few dollops of ricotta cheese for extra creaminess or experiment with different types of cheese for unique flavor profiles.
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Add a Touch of Heat: For those who enjoy a bit of spice, try adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture or marinara sauce. It will give the meatloaf a subtle kick without overwhelming the other flavors.
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Make It Ahead: This meatloaf can be prepared ahead of time, making it an excellent choice for meal prepping. You can assemble the meatloaf and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This gives the flavors more time to meld together.
What to Serve with Italian Meatloaf
While the Italian Meatloaf is hearty on its own, it pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Here are some great options:
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Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers would add color and a healthy crunch to your meal.
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Garlic Bread: No Italian meal is complete without a side of garlic bread. The crispy, buttery bread is perfect for mopping up the extra marinara sauce.
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Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes, either classic or with a twist like roasted garlic, complement the rich flavors of the meatloaf.
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Salad: A light and refreshing salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette can balance the richness of the meatloaf.
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Pasta: For a truly Italian-inspired meal, serve your meatloaf alongside a simple pasta, like spaghetti or penne, with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of Parmesan.
The History Behind Meatloaf and Its Italian Twist
Meatloaf has been a staple in American households for generations. Its origins can be traced back to the early 19th century when it was first popularized as an affordable and hearty meal. Traditionally made with ground beef, it became a go-to meal for busy families looking to feed a large group without breaking the bank.
The Italian twist on meatloaf is a more recent adaptation, blending the love for Italian herbs, cheeses, and tomatoes with the comforting, filling nature of the American meatloaf. This version is deeply rooted in the idea of combining savory ingredients to create a rich, flavorful dish, a hallmark of Italian cuisine.
In Italy, meatloaf may not be as widespread as in the U.S., but the Italian culinary tradition of using ground meat in various forms, like meatballs and Bolognese sauce, has definitely influenced the American adaptation of the dish. The addition of marinara sauce and cheese is an Italian touch that elevates the dish into something truly special.
Making Italian Meatloaf Your Own
The beauty of this dish is that it’s easily customizable. If you have dietary preferences or restrictions, feel free to adapt the recipe. For a gluten-free version, you can substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or even oats. If you’re looking to make it lighter, you can use lean ground turkey or chicken in place of beef and pork.
You can also experiment with the flavor profile. Add mushrooms to the meat mixture for an earthy undertone, or incorporate roasted garlic for a richer, deeper taste. Adding fresh basil or thyme can lend a more garden-fresh aroma to the dish. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative based on what you have on hand.
Conclusion
Italian Meatloaf is a delicious, hearty, and versatile dish that combines the best of Italian flavors with the comforting essence of a traditional meatloaf. It’s the perfect meal for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a family dinner, preparing a weeknight meal, or meal prepping for the week ahead. With its savory filling, cheesy topping, and rich tomato sauce, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
By using high-quality ingredients and following a few simple tips, you can master this dish and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills. Whether served with pasta, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad, Italian Meatloaf is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. So, give this recipe a try and enjoy the comforting flavors of Italy in every bite!
