This Italian Meatloaf is packed with flavor! Made with ground beef, tasty herbs, and a hint of cheese, it’s like a warm hug in every slice.
You can’t go wrong with the gooey cheese melting inside! Serve it with some pasta or a salad, and you’ve got a meal that makes everyone smile. 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: A mix of beef and pork adds great flavor and moisture. If you prefer leaner meat, use ground turkey or chicken, but be cautious as it might dry out.
Italian-style Bread Crumbs: These help give the meatloaf a nice texture. If you don’t have them, use regular bread crumbs seasoned with Italian herbs or even crushed crackers as a substitute.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a salty, nutty flavor. If you can’t find Parmesan, Pecorino Romano works well or try nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Fresh Herbs: Parsley brightens the flavor. You can also add fresh thyme or basil for a fresh twist. Dried herbs are fine, but fresh ones really enhance the taste!
Marinara Sauce: Essential for a flavorful topping! Any store-bought marinara works, or you can make a quick homemade sauce. If you’re short on time, a jarred sauce is just fine and saves effort!
What’s the Key to Keeping the Meatloaf Moist?
Keeping your meatloaf moist can be tricky. Here are some handy tips:
- Mix ingredients gently. Overmixing can make it tough.
- Add milk and eggs, which are great for moisture. They help bind the mixture without drying it out.
- If using lean meats, try adding a bit more fat, like olive oil or cooked veggies, to help keep it juicy.
- Rest the meatloaf after baking. This helps it hold onto the juices when you slice it.
Following these tips will help you create a deliciously moist meatloaf that everyone will love!
How to Make Italian Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (or mix of beef and pork)
- 3/4 cup Italian-style bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce (plus extra for topping)
For Garnish:
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
- Optional: 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese (to mix inside or top)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meatloaf recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, followed by 50-60 minutes of baking time. After baking, let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. In total, you should plan for about 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the meatloaf cooks evenly. Lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
2. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, mix together the ground meat, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, minced garlic, finely chopped onion, milk, eggs, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to gently mix everything until well combined but don’t overwork it—this helps keep the meatloaf tender.
3. Add Optional Cheese:
If you’d like an extra cheesy meatloaf, fold in the shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese evenly into the meat mixture. It will melt beautifully while baking!
4. Shape and Place in the Pan:
Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and carefully place it in the prepared loaf pan. This helps it hold its shape while it cooks.
5. Add Marinara Sauce:
Spread about 1 cup of marinara sauce generously over the top of your meatloaf. This not only adds flavor but also keeps it moist!
6. Bake the Meatloaf:
Put the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. Check that the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C), which means it’s fully cooked and safe to eat.
7. Glaze for Extra Flavor:
If you like, during the last 10 minutes of baking, spread a little more marinara sauce on top for an extra saucey glaze.
8. Cool and Slice:
Once baked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This makes it easier to slice without falling apart.
9. Serve & Garnish:
Slice the meatloaf into thick pieces and serve it warm with extra marinara sauce on the plate. Feel free to garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a pop of flavor and color.
10. Enjoy!
This Italian meatloaf pairs perfectly with sides like pasta, garlic bread, or a fresh green salad. Enjoy your hearty and flavorful Italian-inspired dish!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes, you can use ground turkey for a leaner option! Just keep in mind that turkey can be drier, so consider adding a bit of olive oil or finely chopped veggies to keep it moist.
How Do I Store Leftover Meatloaf?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing it. You can also freeze it for up to 2-3 months; just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil!
Can I Make This Meatloaf Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! Substitute the Italian-style bread crumbs with gluten-free bread crumbs or oat flour. Just check the labels to ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well!
What Can I Serve with Italian Meatloaf?
This meatloaf pairs beautifully with spaghetti, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad. Garlic bread is also a delightful side to soak up any extra marinara sauce!
