This Italian Meatloaf is a hearty dish packed with flavors. Made with ground meat, breadcrumbs, and zesty herbs, it’s topped with a delicious tomato sauce that makes it extra special!
Who knew meatloaf could be this exciting? I love serving it with spaghetti on the side for a classic twist. It’s like a cozy Italian dinner right at home! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Meat: I usually use a mix of beef and pork for added flavor. If you want to keep it lean, ground turkey or chicken works well too. Just be mindful that poultry can dry out easily, so add a bit more moisture.
Breadcrumbs: Italian seasoned breadcrumbs are perfect, but if you can’t find them, plain breadcrumbs work just fine. You can mix in a little Italian seasoning or herbs to boost the flavor. Gluten-free breadcrumbs are also a great alternative if needed!
Cheeses: Parmesan adds a nice salty kick. For a twist, try pecorino Romano. As for mozzarella, it melts beautifully, but if you need a dairy-free option, choose a vegan cheese made for melting.
Milk: You can swap this with any plant-based milk if you’re lactose-intolerant or vegan. Just ensure it’s unsweetened to maintain the flavor balance.
Herbs: Fresh parsley gives a nice brightness. If you don’t have it, you can use dried parsley, but use less since dried herbs are more concentrated. Feel free to mix and match herbs based on your preference!
How Do You Keep the Meatloaf Moist?
Keeping meatloaf moist can be tricky, but a few key steps help. First, don’t overmix your meat mixture! Just combine everything until it’s evenly mixed to keep it light and tender. Adding moist ingredients like milk, eggs, and sautéed onions helps retain moisture throughout cooking.
- Make sure to sauté your onions and garlic before adding them. This brings out their flavors and ensures they are soft.
- Cover the meatloaf with marinara sauce before baking. It creates a moisture barrier and adds extra flavor.
- Let it rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps seal in the juices.
With these tips, your meatloaf will be juicy and flavorful every time!
How to Make Italian Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 1/2 lbs ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, plus extra for topping
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce:
- 2 cups marinara or Italian tomato sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil (optional, for sautéing onion and garlic)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Italian meatloaf takes about 15 minutes for preparation and around 1 hour for baking. So, in total, you’ll spend roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes creating a delightful dish that serves around 6-8 people. A cozy dinner in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, it’s hot and ready when your meatloaf is formed and ready to bake!
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a small skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until they become soft and fragrant, usually around 3-5 minutes. Once done, remove from heat and let them cool slightly.
3. Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, Italian seasoned breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, milk, eggs, chopped parsley, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. It’s a flavorful mix! Make sure to add the sautéed onion and garlic to the mixture once they’ve cooled.
4. Combine Gently:
Using your hands, mix all the ingredients together gently. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf dense. You want it to be just combined!
5. Shape the Meatloaf:
Transfer the mixture to a baking tray or a loaf pan and shape it into a loaf. It should be even on all sides for cooking.
6. Add the Sauce:
Spread 1 to 1 1/2 cups of marinara sauce evenly over the top of the meatloaf. This will keep it moist and flavorful as it bakes.
7. Bake It!
Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes.
8. Add More Cheese:
After 45 minutes, remove the meatloaf from the oven and sprinkle the extra shredded mozzarella cheese on top. This will give it a lovely gooey topping!
9. Final Baking:
Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches 160°F (71°C).
10. Let It Rest:
Once it’s done, take it out of the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping it moist.
11. Slice and Serve:
Slice the meatloaf and serve it topped with any remaining marinara sauce and a garnish of fresh parsley. Enjoy your delicious Italian meatloaf with a side of spaghetti for a comforting meal!
This meatloaf combines traditional Italian flavors with a cheesy, tomato-rich topping that keeps it moist and delicious—perfect for cozy family dinners!
Can I Substitute the Ground Meat?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative if you want a lighter or meat-free option. Just keep in mind that ground turkey or chicken may need additional moisture to prevent it from drying out.
Can I Make This Meatloaf Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge before baking. Just make sure to cover it well! When you’re ready to bake, follow the instructions as usual but add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s still cold from the fridge.
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can enjoy it cold in sandwiches or reheat it in the microwave or oven. If reheating in the oven, cover it with foil to prevent drying out!
Can I Freeze the Meatloaf?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked meatloaf! Let it cool completely, then slice it and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm it in the oven or microwave.
