Best Italian Meatloaf

Introduction

Best Italian Meatloaf is a fantastic dish that combines all the delicious flavors of Italian cooking into a comforting classic. This meatloaf is juicy, flavorful, and topped with rich marinara sauce. It’s perfect for family dinners and will leave everyone wanting more!

Why Make This Recipe

You should make this Italian Meatloaf because it brings joy to the dinner table! It’s easy to put together and uses simple ingredients you may already have at home. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy a hearty meal that’s filled with flavors. The blend of beef, cheese, and seasonings creates a dish that is both satisfying and comforting.

How to Make Best Italian Meatloaf

Ingredients:

1 1/2 pounds ground beef
1 cup Italian-style bread crumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup diced onion
1/2 cup milk
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup marinara sauce (for topping)

Optional: 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (for a spicy kick)

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, onion, milk, eggs, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the ingredients.
Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a greased baking dish.
Spread half of the marinara sauce over the top of the meatloaf.
Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
During the last 10 minutes of baking, spread the remaining marinara sauce over the meatloaf for extra flavor.
Once cooked, take it out of the oven and let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing.
Serve warm, garnished with additional parsley if desired.

How to Serve Best Italian Meatloaf

You can serve the Italian Meatloaf with some mashed potatoes or a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal. It’s also great with a fresh salad or garlic bread. Don’t forget to pass around extra marinara sauce for dipping!

How to Store Best Italian Meatloaf

After you’ve enjoyed your meatloaf, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for about 3 to 4 days. You can also freeze individual slices if you want to enjoy it later. Just wrap each slice in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe bag.

Tips to Make Best Italian Meatloaf

Make sure to use lean ground beef to keep the meatloaf moist without excess grease.
You can add some shredded mozzarella cheese inside the meatloaf for an extra cheesy surprise.
If you want a bit of heat, mix in some crushed red pepper flakes.
Letting the meatloaf rest before slicing helps maintain its juices.

Variation

If you want to switch things up a bit, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option. You can also try adding different herbs like basil or thyme for a twist in flavor.

FAQs

Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the meat mixture and shape it into a loaf. Cover and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.

What should I do if my meatloaf is too dry? Make sure you’re not overbaking it. Adding a little more milk or cheese to your mixture can help retain moisture.

Can I use store-bought marinara sauce? Absolutely! Store-bought marinara sauce works perfectly for topping your meatloaf. Just choose your favorite brand for the best taste.