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Italian Meatloaf Recipe

Italian Meatloaf Recipe
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★★★★★

4.7 from 17 reviews

This classic Italian Meatloaf recipe combines lean ground beef with flavorful herbs, cheese, and a moist breadcrumb panade, topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella. Perfectly baked to juicy perfection, it’s an easy, comforting meal that pairs beautifully with your favorite sides.

Ingredients

Scale

Meatloaf

  • ⅔ cup breadcrumbs (Italian or plain)
  • ¾ cup milk
  • 2 pounds lean ground beef
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 ½ teaspoons onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon pepper
  • ½ cup parmesan cheese
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Topping

  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • ½ cup mozzarella cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a metal loaf pan thoroughly with cooking oil to prevent sticking.
  2. Make breadcrumb panade: Combine breadcrumbs and milk in a bowl, stir, and let sit for about a minute until the breadcrumbs soak up the milk and form a creamy, oatmeal-like texture that will keep the meatloaf tender.
  3. Mix main ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add ground beef, oregano, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, parmesan cheese, and the softened breadcrumb mixture. Mix gently to combine.
  4. Add eggs: Crack the eggs into a separate bowl and beat them lightly with a fork. Add the beaten eggs to the meat mixture.
  5. Incorporate olive oil and combine: Coat your hands generously with olive oil to prevent the meat from sticking and drying out. Mix the meat mixture with your hands just until well combined, about 30-45 seconds, being careful not to overmix which can make the meatloaf dense.
  6. Shape and top: Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan, pressing it evenly. Spread marinara sauce over the top and cover the pan with aluminum foil.
  7. Bake covered: Bake the meatloaf covered for 60 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
  8. Bake uncovered with cheese: Remove the foil, sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly on top, and bake uncovered for an additional 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  9. Check doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf’s internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) indicating it’s safely cooked.
  10. Rest and serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Resting helps retain juices and produces cleaner slices. Serve warm with your favorite sides.

Notes

  • For a lower fat option, substitute half the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken.
  • If you prefer a spicier version, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture.
  • Gluten-free breadcrumbs can be used to make this recipe gluten-free.
  • Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
  • Make sure not to overmix the meat mixture to avoid a tough texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: Italian meatloaf, easy meatloaf recipe, baked meatloaf, ground beef meatloaf, comfort food, family dinner

Find it online: https://flavorsbymaya.com/italian-meatloaf-recipe/