This Italian Meatloaf is a cozy twist on the classic dish! Made with ground beef, tasty herbs, and a hint of cheese, it’s bursting with flavor. Perfect for a family dinner!
I love how easy it is to put together. Just mix, shape, and bake! Plus, it makes great leftovers for sandwiches the next day—if there are any left! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: A mix of beef and pork adds a lovely richness. If you want a leaner option, use ground turkey or chicken. Both work well but keep the flavor in mind!
Italian-style Breadcrumbs: These add flavor and texture. If you can’t find them, make your own by seasoning plain breadcrumbs with Italian herbs or use crushed crackers.
Parmesan Cheese: This salty cheese enhances flavor. For a lactose-free option, try nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese blend.
Marinara Sauce: Use store-bought for convenience, but homemade can take it to another level. If you’re short on time, any tomato sauce will work in a pinch!
How Do You Keep the Meatloaf Tender?
A key technique for a tender meatloaf is to mix ingredients just until combined. Overmixing can make it tough. Here’s how to do it right:
- Soak the breadcrumbs in milk for moisture—this will help keep the meatloaf juicy.
- Mix gently by hand or with a spoon. The goal is to blend the ingredients without breaking down the meat too much.
- Let the meatloaf rest after baking to set the juices and make slicing easier.
Italian Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Sauce and Topping:
- 2 cups marinara sauce, divided
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Italian Meatloaf takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 1 hour total to cook. You’ll bake it for 45 minutes, and then add cheese and bake for a bit longer. After that, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Perfect for a tasty family meal or for meal prep!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Baking Dish:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Next, lightly grease a medium baking dish or line it with parchment paper to make cleanup easier.
2. Soak the Breadcrumbs:
In a small bowl, combine the milk and Italian-style breadcrumbs. Allow them to soak for about 5 minutes until the breadcrumbs absorb the milk. This step helps keep the meatloaf moist!
3. Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients:
In a large bowl, add the ground beef, soaked breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, eggs, minced garlic, chopped onion, parsley, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper. Gently mix everything together using your hands or a spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the meatloaf tender.
4. Shape and Add Sauce:
Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it into your prepared baking dish. Now, take 1 cup of marinara sauce and spread it evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
5. Bake the Meatloaf:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes. This ensures the meatloaf cooks through thoroughly.
6. Add More Sauce and Cheese:
After 45 minutes, remove the meatloaf from the oven and spoon the remaining 1 cup of marinara sauce over the top. Then, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
7. Final Baking:
Return the meatloaf to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
8. Rest and Serve:
Once baked, take the meatloaf out of the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This helps keep the juices in! Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Enjoy your flavorful Italian Meatloaf topped with rich marinara and melted mozzarella!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes, you can! Ground turkey is a leaner option, but be aware it may make the meatloaf a bit dryer. Adding a little extra moisture, like an additional egg or more milk, can help keep it juicy.
What Can I Substitute for Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have Italian-style breadcrumbs, you can use regular breadcrumbs mixed with Italian seasonings, crushed crackers, or even oat flour. Just remember that the texture may vary slightly!
How Do I Store Leftover Meatloaf?
Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it; wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap and it will last up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge before reheating!
What Should I Serve with Italian Meatloaf?
This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad. For a heartier meal, try serving it with garlic bread or steamed vegetables!