An Absolutely Delicious Italian Meatloaf
Meatloaf can conjure up some pretty strong feelings. Loathe or love? I’m of the latter. I’m constantly dreaming up new versions, sometimes they work out and sometimes they don’t. Sometimes when they don’t work I make them over and over again trying to get it right. And sometimes they still don’t work. Thankfully, this one works! Moist, juicy and so tender it melts in your mouth. It may just be my new favorite of all-time. Packed full of flavor beginning with sautéed aromatic veggies including onion, garlic, fire roasted red peppers and fresh tomatoes followed by tomato sauce, mozzarella, Parmesan, and Italian seasoned bread crumbs. All of these flavors are tied together with an Italian seasoning blend that includes basil, rosemary, oregano, and thyme. I see many meatloaf recipes calling for the meat to be cooked in loaf pans. I can’t help but wonder who was the genius to come up with this idea? First issue: where does all the grease go? Back in the meatloaf to make it soggy and greasy?! No thank-you. Second issue: it doesn’t allow the outside to get browned. The absolute best part of eating meatloaf for me is that outer, browned crusty part. I lust after the end pieces! No wonder there are so many meatloaf haters in the world.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Italian meatloaf is a game-changer, transforming a classic dish into something extraordinary. You’ll love it for its rich, savory taste packed with Italian flavors. The combination of beef and sausage gives it a wonderful depth, while the cheese adds a delightful creaminess. Plus, the crispy, browned crust is simply irresistible!
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Small skillet
- Large mixing bowl
- Baking dish (preferably oval-shaped)
- Oven
Ingredients
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1/2 lb. ground mild Italian sausage
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper (I used orange, it was all I had in the freezer)
- 1 tsp. olive oil
- 1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp. oregano
- 1/2 tsp. basil
- 1/2 tsp. parsley
- 1 egg, beaten
- 3/4 cup Italian bread crumbs
- 2 slices white bread, crumbled
- 1 tbsp. milk
- 8 oz. shredded mozzarella cheese, reserve 3/4 cup for topping
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce, plus 1/2 – 3/4 cup more for topping
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a small skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat and sauté the onion and bell pepper for 3-4 minutes, then remove from heat.
- In a large bowl, combine the meats, sautéed onion and peppers, and all remaining ingredients, reserving 3/4 cup of mozzarella cheese for topping. Use your hands to mix everything thoroughly.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish of your choice.
- Spoon 1/2 to 3/4 cup of marinara sauce over the top and spread it evenly.
- Bake in a preheated 400°F (200°C) oven for 50 minutes.
- Remove from the oven, top with the remaining mozzarella cheese, and sprinkle a little dried basil over the top.
- Return to the oven for an additional 10 minutes.
- Ensure the meat is no longer pink before serving; baking time may vary depending on the thickness of your loaf. Mine was about 2 inches thick.
Tips for Success
- Make sure to sauté the vegetables first to bring out their flavors.
- Mix the ingredients thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of flavors.
- Check the internal temperature to ensure it is fully cooked.
Additional Tips or Variations
- Feel free to add other vegetables such as mushrooms or zucchini for additional flavor and nutrition.
- You can substitute the mozzarella with provolone for a different cheesy flavor.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
Calories: 350, Protein: 25g, Fat: 20g, Carbohydrates: 15g, Fiber: 2g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use turkey instead of beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for a leaner version of this meatloaf.
What can I use instead of Italian sausage?
If you prefer, you can use all beef or add ground pork for different flavors.
Conclusion
This Absolutely Delicious Italian Meatloaf is sure to become a favorite in your household. It’s a hearty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out! We’d love to hear your variations and thoughts in the comments below. Enjoy!