Easy Italian Meatloaf is a flavorful twist on the classic meatloaf, incorporating Italian ingredients like Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. It’s simple to make and packed with savory goodness. Here’s a straightforward recipe:
Ingredients
- For the Meatloaf:
- 1 pound (450 g) ground beef
- 1 pound (450 g) ground pork (or use 2 pounds of ground beef if you prefer)
- 1 cup Italian-style bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (or 2 tablespoons dried parsley)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 cup marinara sauce (plus more for topping)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of basil, oregano, and thyme)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Mix Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, Italian-style bread crumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, minced garlic, beaten egg, 1 cup marinara sauce, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix, as it can make the meatloaf tough.
- Shape the Meatloaf:
- Transfer the meat mixture to a baking sheet or a lightly greased loaf pan.
- Form the mixture into a loaf shape if using a baking sheet or press it into the loaf pan.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) and is cooked through.
- If using a loaf pan, you may want to drain off excess fat halfway through baking.
- Add Topping:
- In the last 10 minutes of baking, spread 1/2 cup marinara sauce over the top of the meatloaf.
- If desired, sprinkle with an additional 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese.
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps it hold its shape and makes for easier serving.
- Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley if desired.
Tips
- Add Veggies: For extra flavor and nutrition, you can mix in finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms into the meat mixture.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the meatloaf mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
- Leftovers: Leftover meatloaf can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. It makes great sandwiches or can be served with a side of veggies or salad.
Enjoy your Easy Italian Meatloaf! It’s a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for a family dinner.