Italian Meatloaf: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Recipe

Italian Meatloaf is a delightful twist on a classic comfort food that brings warmth and flavor to any dinner table. As someone who has always cherished the rich culinary traditions of Italy, I find that this dish beautifully marries the heartiness of traditional meatloaf with the vibrant flavors of Italian cuisine. The history of meatloaf dates back centuries, but the Italian version often incorporates fresh herbs, garlic, and a medley of cheeses, making it a beloved staple in many households.

What I adore about Italian Meatloaf is not just its incredible taste and texture, but also its convenience. It’s a dish that can be prepared ahead of time, allowing for a stress-free meal that still feels special. The combination of juicy ground meat, aromatic spices, and a savory tomato glaze creates a symphony of flavors that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. Whether served with a side of pasta or a fresh salad, Italian Meatloaf is sure to become a favorite in your home, just as it has in mine.

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 pound ground pork
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup marinara sauce (plus extra for serving)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Olive oil (for greasing the pan)

Preparing the Meatloaf Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and ground pork. I like to use a combination of meats for a richer flavor and texture.
2. Add the breadcrumbs to the meat mixture. This will help bind everything together and give the meatloaf a nice texture.
3. Next, sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese. This adds a wonderful savory flavor that complements the meat.
4. Chop the fresh parsley and add it to the bowl. Fresh herbs really elevate the dish, so don’t skip this step!
5. Finely chop the onion and add it to the mixture. The onion will add moisture and sweetness to the meatloaf.
6. Minced garlic goes in next. I love the aroma of garlic, and it pairs perfectly with the other ingredients.
7. Crack the two large eggs into the bowl. The eggs act as a binder, helping to hold the meatloaf together.
8. Pour in the cup of marinara sauce. This not only adds flavor but also keeps the meatloaf moist.
9. Sprinkle in the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). These spices will give the meatloaf that classic Italian flavor.
10. Using your hands (I find this is the best way), mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.

Shaping the Meatloaf

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the perfect temperature for cooking the meatloaf evenly.
2. Lightly grease a baking sheet or a loaf pan with olive oil. If you’re using a loaf pan, it will help the meatloaf hold its shape.
3. Transfer the meat mixture onto the prepared baking sheet or into the loaf pan. If you’re using a baking sheet, shape the mixture into a loaf shape, about 2 inches high.
4. Use your hands to smooth the top and sides of the meatloaf. This will help it cook evenly and look nice when it’s done.

Baking the Meatloaf

1. Once your oven is preheated, place the meatloaf in the oven. Bake for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
2. After 30 minutes of baking, take the meatloaf out and brush a little extra marinara sauce on top. This adds flavor and keeps the top moist.
3. Return the meatloaf to the oven and continue baking until it’s fully cooked. If you want a nice crust, you can turn on the broiler for the last 5 minutes, but keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.

Resting and Serving

1. Once the meatloaf is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making it more flavorful and easier to slice.
2. Using a sharp knife, slice the meatloaf into thick pieces. I usually aim for about 1-inch thick slices.
3. Serve the meatloaf with extra marinara sauce on the side. It pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, pasta, or a fresh salad.
4. 

   Conclusion:

   In summary, this Italian Meatloaf is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their dinner game with a dish that’s both comforting and bursting with flavor. The combination of savory herbs, rich tomato sauce, and the perfect blend of meats creates a mouthwatering experience that will have your family and friends asking for seconds. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! You can serve it with a side of creamy mashed potatoes, a fresh garden salad, or even on a bed of pasta for a delightful twist. Feel free to experiment with variations, such as adding your favorite vegetables to the mix or swapping out the meats for a leaner option. You could even turn it into meatballs for a fun appetizer or a hearty sandwich filling. The possibilities are endless! I encourage you to give this Italian Meatloaf a try and make it your own. Once you’ve tasted the deliciousness, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, any tweaks you made, or even a photo of your creation. Let’s spread the love for this fantastic recipe together! Happy cooking! Print
   

   Italian Meatloaf: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Recipe

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   • Author: Maria
   • Total Time: 80 minutes
   • Yield: 6–8 servings 1x

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   Description

   This Italian-style meatloaf features a savory blend of ground beef and pork, mixed with herbs, breadcrumbs, and marinara sauce. It’s easy to make and delivers comforting flavors, making it an ideal choice for family dinners. Serve it with extra marinara and your favorite sides for a satisfying meal.

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   Ingredients

   Scale 1x2x3x

   • 1 pound ground beef
   • 1 pound ground pork
   • 1 cup breadcrumbs
   • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
   • 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
   • 1/2 cup chopped onion
   • 2 cloves garlic, minced
   • 2 large eggs
   • 1 cup marinara sauce (plus extra for serving)
   • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
   • 1 teaspoon dried basil
   • 1 teaspoon salt
   • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
   • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
   • Olive oil (for greasing the pan)

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   Instructions

   1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and ground pork.
   2. Add the breadcrumbs to the meat mixture.
   3. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese.
   4. Chop the fresh parsley and add it to the bowl.
   5. Finely chop the onion and add it to the mixture.
   6. Add the minced garlic.
   7. Crack the two large eggs into the bowl.
   8. Pour in the cup of marinara sauce.
   9. Sprinkle in the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
   10. Using your hands, mix everything together until just combined.
   11. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   12. Lightly grease a baking sheet or a loaf pan with olive oil.
   13. Transfer the meat mixture onto the prepared baking sheet or into the loaf pan, shaping it into a loaf shape if using a baking sheet.
   14. Smooth the top and sides of the meatloaf with your hands.
   15. Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
   16. After 30 minutes, brush a little extra marinara sauce on top.
   17. Return the meatloaf to the oven and continue baking until fully cooked. Optionally, turn on the broiler for the last 5 minutes for a nice crust.
   18. Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes.
   19. Slice the meatloaf into thick pieces, about 1-inch thick.
   20. Serve with extra marinara sauce on the side, alongside mashed potatoes, pasta, or a fresh salad.

   Notes

   • For added flavor, consider mixing in some grated vegetables like carrots or zucchini.
   • Leftover meatloaf can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.

   • Prep Time: 20 minutes
   • Cook Time: 60 minutes