An Absolutely Delicious Italian Meatloaf
An Absolutely Delicious Italian Meatloaf
This meatloaf is basically one big giant meatball, or at least that’s what I tell my kids so that they’ll eat it. But, seriously, it is similar to meatballs, only it has a lot more flavor and is easier to make. I like to serve it with my Big Italian Salad — a firm family favorite — and Parmesan Smashed Potatoes, but it’s delicious with pasta too. Leftovers are even better the next day, sliced and topped with melted cheese in a warm sandwich.
As you can see, I use a good quality store-bought marinara sauce. Feel free to make your own, but I don’t think it’s worth it since the recipe only calls for 3/4 cup.
Begin by chopping the vegetables. I use a food processor, which makes it quick and easy. You want to pulse until the vegetables are finely chopped but not puréed — this makes for a nicely textured meatloaf. (And always rough chop the veggies before putting them in the machine, otherwise they won’t chop evenly.)
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Italian Meatloaf is a true comfort food classic, combining the flavors of Italy in a hearty dish that’s perfect for family dinners. Its simplicity makes it accessible, while its rich taste makes it unforgettable. Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with various sides like salads, potatoes, or pasta.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Food processor
- Small skillet
- Large mixing bowl
- Baking dish (oval Portuguese stoneware recommended)
- Oven
Ingredients
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1/2 lb. ground mild Italian sausage
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper (orange recommended)
- 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
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
- In a small skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat and sauté the onion and bell pepper for 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, Italian sausage, sautéed onion and bell pepper, and all remaining ingredients, reserving 3/4 cup of mozzarella cheese for topping.
- Use your hands to mix everything thoroughly until well combined.
- Mold the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in your chosen baking dish.
- Spoon 1/2 to 3/4 cup of marinara sauce on top and spread evenly.
- Bake in the preheated 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, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Ensure the meat is fully cooked and not pink before serving.
Tips for Success
For a perfectly textured meatloaf, make sure not to over-process your vegetables. Roughly chop them before pulsing in the food processor. This ensures even chopping and a nice texture.
Additional Tips and Variations
Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese or add some chopped sun-dried tomatoes for an extra burst of flavor. You can also try different herbs like thyme or rosemary to change up the flavor profile.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
Each serving of this Italian Meatloaf is packed with protein and contains a healthy balance of fats and carbohydrates, making it a satisfying meal option.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use a different type of meat? Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a substitute, but keep in mind the flavor and texture will change slightly.
How long can I store leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Can I freeze the meatloaf? Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Conclusion
This Absolutely Delicious Italian Meatloaf is a wonderful way to bring classic Italian flavors to your dinner table. It’s easy to prepare and sure to be a hit with the whole family. Give it a try and let me know how it turns out! I’d love to hear your experiences and any creative twists you might add to this recipe.
