An Absolutely Delicious Italien Meatloaf
I know what you are thinking… ‘uggh, meatloaf, my grade school cafeteria nightmares!’ I hear ya. I was never really a fan of meatloaf until Mark introduced me to his Italian-Style Meatloaf with a Garlic Tomato Sauce, and now I can’t get enough of this, and I request it often.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Italian-Style Meatloaf with Garlic Tomato Sauce is a delightful twist on the classic dish. Unlike the traditional version, which often features a bland ketchup topping, this recipe is bursting with Italian flavors. The combination of ground beef and Italian sausage, along with aromatic herbs, brings a rich and savory taste to the table. Plus, the garlic tomato sauce is so versatile, you might find yourself using it on pasta too!
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Small skillet
- Large mixing bowl
- Baking dish (an oval stoneware is ideal)
- 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 T. 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, onion, and peppers with all remaining ingredients, reserving 3/4 cup of mozzarella cheese for topping.
- Use your hands to mix everything thoroughly. Once combined, mold the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in your baking dish.
- Spoon 1/2 to 3/4 cup of the marinara sauce over the top and spread it evenly.
- Bake in a preheated 400-degree oven for 50 minutes.
- Remove from the oven, add the remaining cheese on top, and sprinkle a little dry basil over it.
- Return to the oven for another 10 minutes. Ensure the meat is fully cooked with no pink before serving. Adjust baking time as needed based on the thickness of your loaf.
Tips for Success
- Be sure to finely chop the onion and bell pepper for even cooking.
- Using your hands to mix the ingredients ensures everything is well incorporated.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, opt for hot Italian sausage instead of mild.
Additional Tips and Variations
Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, such as provolone or asiago, for a unique twist. You can also add chopped spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
Each serving of this savory meatloaf is packed with protein and rich in essential vitamins and minerals, thanks to the blend of meats and veggies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use only beef instead of a mix of beef and sausage?
Yes, but the sausage adds a distinct flavor that enhances the Italian taste.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture a day in advance and bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Conclusion
This Italian-Style Meatloaf with Garlic Tomato Sauce is a game-changer for anyone who’s ever been skeptical about meatloaf. Packed with flavor and easy to make, it’s bound to become a family favorite. Give it a try and let me know how it turns out for you in the comments below!