This Italian Meatloaf is a tasty twist on a classic dish! Made with seasoned ground meat, garlic, and herbs, it’s filled with cheese for an extra surprise in every bite.
I love serving it with marinara sauce on top for that authentic Italian vibe. Plus, it makes great leftovers—if there are any left! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Meat: I use a mix of ground beef and pork for flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for a leaner option, go with turkey or chicken. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as they can dry out faster.
Breadcrumbs: Italian-style breadcrumbs add flavor, but regular breadcrumbs work too. For gluten-free diets, try using ground oats or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Cheese: I love using mozzarella for its gooey texture. You can swap it with provolone or even a dairy-free cheese alternative for a lighter option.
Parmesan: This cheese adds a salty bite. If you don’t have any, Pecorino Romano is a great alternative, just be mindful it’s saltier, so adjust your salt accordingly!
Onion & Garlic: Fresh onion and garlic give depth to the flavor. If you’re short on time, onion powder and garlic powder can kick it up a notch, but fresh is always my first choice for flavor.
How Do I Keep My Meatloaf Moist and Flavorful?
Keeping your meatloaf moist is crucial for great texture. Here are some tips to achieve this:
- Don’t overmix: Combine ingredients just until blended to avoid a dense loaf.
- Add moisture: Ingredients like milk, eggs, and shredded cheese help keep the meatloaf juicy.
- Rest before slicing: Letting the meatloaf sit for 10 minutes after baking allows juices to redistribute.
- Topping with sauce: Covering the top with marinara not only adds flavor but moisture too, which keeps the surface from drying out.
How to Make Italian Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Meat Mixture:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (preferably 80% lean)
- 1/2 pound ground pork
Binding and Flavoring:
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning (oregano, basil, thyme blend)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
For Topping:
- 1 1/4 cups marinara sauce (plus extra for topping)
- Olive oil for greasing the pan
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Italian Meatloaf will take about 15 minutes to prepare and will need around 60 minutes to bake in the oven. Don’t forget the 10 minutes of resting time before you slice into it. In total, expect to invest about 1 hour and 25 minutes for this tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan with olive oil or line a baking sheet with parchment paper to make cleanup easier.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, milk, eggs, chopped onion, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and chopped parsley. Mix everything together until it’s just combined. Be careful not to overwork the meat to keep it tender!
3. Layer the Meatloaf:
Press half of the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan, making sure it’s even. Then, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Press the remaining meat mixture over the cheese, sealing the mozzarella inside.
4. Add Marinara Sauce:
Spread about 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly over the top of the meatloaf. This will keep it moist and flavorful!
5. Bake the Meatloaf:
Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for about 60 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Keep an eye on it and add more marinara sauce during the last 10 minutes, plus some additional cheese if you like a cheesy topping!
6. Rest and Serve:
Once baked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices settle so you get nice, moist slices.
7. Garnish and Enjoy:
Garnish with extra chopped parsley before serving. Slice it up and enjoy with some pasta, garlic bread, or a fresh salad on the side for a complete meal!
Bon appétit with your delicious, juicy Italian Meatloaf topped with marinara and cheese, bursting with savory Italian flavors!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef and Pork?
Yes, you can definitely substitute ground turkey for the beef and pork! Just keep in mind that turkey tends to be leaner, so it’s a good idea to add a bit more moisture, like an additional egg or a splash of broth, to keep it from drying out.
Can I Make This Meatloaf Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground oats as a substitute for the Italian-style breadcrumbs. Be sure to check that your marinara sauce is also gluten-free to keep the dish compliant!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it—wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil or place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge before reheating!
What Can I Serve with Italian Meatloaf?
This meatloaf pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides! You can serve it with pasta, garlic bread, or a fresh green salad. It’s also delicious topped with additional marinara sauce and a sprinkle of fresh herbs!
