Name: Italian Meatloaf
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound lean ground beef; 1/3 cup Italian seasoned bread crumbs; 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 1/4 teaspoons Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 2 tablespoons fresh chopped basil or 1 teaspoon dried basil; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (finely chopped); 1 cup pasta sauce or marinara sauce; 1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded and divided); 1 large egg (slightly beaten)

Delicious Italian meatloaf sliced and served with marinara sauce.

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Why Make This Recipe

Italian Meatloaf is a comforting dish that combines the traditional taste of meatloaf with the delightful flavors of Italian cuisine. This recipe is perfect for family dinners or meal prep for the week. It’s easy to make and packed with ingredients that provide both taste and nutrition. Plus, it adds a fun twist to the classic meatloaf that many people love.

How to Make Italian Meatloaf

Ingredients

1 pound lean ground beef
1/3 cup Italian seasoned bread crumbs
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 1/4 teaspoons Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
2 tablespoons fresh chopped basil or 1 teaspoon dried basil
2 tablespoons fresh parsley (finely chopped)
1 cup pasta sauce or marinara sauce (use your favorite)
1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded and divided)
1 whole large egg (slightly beaten)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, bread crumbs, parmesan cheese, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, basil, parsley, 1/2 cup of pasta sauce, 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese, and the beaten egg. Gently mix everything together with your hands or a spoon until well combined.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. Shape the meat mixture into a loaf that is about 1 inch thick, 8 inches long, and 4 inches wide.
Bake the meatloaf for 35-40 minutes. When it’s done, remove it from the oven and spread the remaining 1/2 cup of pasta sauce over the top.
Top with the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and return it to the oven. Bake for another 10 minutes or until the cheese has melted.
Serve and enjoy!

How to Serve Italian Meatloaf

Serve the Italian Meatloaf warm, sliced into portions. It goes wonderfully with a side of mashed potatoes, a fresh salad, or some garlic bread. You can also drizzle extra pasta sauce over the slices for added flavor.

How to Store Italian Meatloaf

To store leftovers, let the meatloaf cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through or use the microwave.

Tips to Make Italian Meatloaf

Be careful not to overmix the meat mixture; gently combine the ingredients to keep the meatloaf tender.
You can add veggies like chopped bell peppers or onions for extra flavor and nutrition.
Experiment with different types of cheese or sauces to customize the dish to your taste.

Variation

For a healthier option, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the lean ground beef. This will reduce the fat content but still provide great flavor. You might also consider adding spinach or zucchini to the mixture for added veggies.

FAQs

Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even pork if you prefer a different taste.

Can I make Italian Meatloaf in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meat mixture and form it into a loaf, then cover it and refrigerate it for up to a day before baking.

What can I serve with Italian Meatloaf?
It pairs well with mashed potatoes, pasta, steamed vegetables, or a simple side salad. You can also enjoy it in a sandwich the next day!