This Italian meatloaf is a twist on the classic favorite! It’s packed with ground beef, flavorful herbs, and a rich tomato sauce that makes it super tasty.
My family loves it, and I enjoy sneaking in veggies like carrots and onions without them noticing! 😂 Serve it with pasta for a meal that’s both homey and hearty.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I love using a mix of beef and pork for added flavor. If you prefer leaner meat, turkey or chicken can work well too—just add some extra seasoning to keep it tasty.
Italian Breadcrumbs: These breadcrumbs are seasoned nicely already but if you’re out, plain breadcrumbs plus Italian seasoning work as a good substitute. You can even use crushed crackers if needed!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice flavor and richness. If you don’t have it, any hard cheese like Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast can give you a similar taste.
Fresh Parsley: Fresh herbs brighten up the dish. If you’re out, you can replace it with dried parsley or use basil for a different but lovely flavor.
Marinara Sauce: Store-bought marinara is convenient, but homemade tastes better! During busy times, I sometimes use my favorite jarred sauce to save time.
How Can I Ensure My Meatloaf is Moist and Tender?
One of the biggest challenges in making meatloaf is keeping it moist. Here are some tips:
- Don’t overmix the meat mixture. Just mix until everything is combined.
- Adding milk helps keep the meatloaf moist. You can substitute it with broth or even an egg if you’re out of milk.
- Use a mix of meats for extra flavor and moisture; beef and pork give the best results.
- Baking uncovered can dry it out, so spoon a little marinara sauce over the top to help retain moisture while it bakes.
- Let it rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meatloaf juicy!
How to Make Italian Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 eggs
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Topping:
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes for prep time, plus 1 hour for baking. This recipe requires around 45 minutes for the initial bake, then a quick additional bake for the cheese to melt. Finally, let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Altogether, plan for about an hour and 15 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Then, lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to make it easier to remove later.
2. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, gather the ground beef, Italian breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped onion, parsley, eggs, milk, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until well combined, but make sure not to overmix! Overmixing might make your meatloaf tough, and we want it soft and tender.
3. Shape the Meatloaf:
Shape the meat mixture into a loaf shape by hand, and carefully place it into the prepared loaf pan.
4. Add Marinara Sauce:
Spread about 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly over the top of the meatloaf. This will keep it moist and add a ton of flavor!
5. Bake the Meatloaf:
Bake the meatloaf uncovered in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. This step helps it cook through and get a nice brown top.
6. Add Cheese:
After 45 minutes, take the meatloaf out of the oven and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top.
7. Add Remaining Marinara Sauce:
Spoon any remaining marinara sauce around the sides of the meatloaf in the pan. This adds flavor and keeps the edges nice and moist.
8. Final Bake:
Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes. You want the cheese to be melted and bubbly, and the internal temperature of the meatloaf to reach 160°F (71°C).
9. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish your meatloaf with fresh chopped basil or parsley before slicing. It makes for a beautiful presentation!
10. Enjoy Your Meal:
Serve it warm with a side of pasta, a green salad, or some crusty Italian bread to soak up that delicious sauce. Enjoy your tasty Italian meatloaf!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef or Pork?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean substitute. Just keep in mind that turkey can be drier than beef or pork, so adding a little extra moisture, like an additional egg or some grated vegetables, can help keep it juicy.
Can I Freeze Leftover Meatloaf?
Yes, you can freeze leftover meatloaf! Just allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight freezer container. It will last up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
What Can I Serve with Italian Meatloaf?
Italian meatloaf pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides! Consider serving it with spaghetti, garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or even some roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
How Do I Know When the Meatloaf is Done?
The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer. Your meatloaf should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). Additionally, the juices should run clear when you slice it, and the cheese should be melted and bubbly!
