Italian meatloaf takes the classic comfort food to a new level with a blend of bold Italian flavors. This dish combines ground beef and Italian sausage with Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and a rich marinara sauce, creating a juicy and flavorful meatloaf. It’s a perfect family meal that brings a touch of Italian flair to your dinner table.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking for a satisfying weekday meal, this Italian meatloaf offers a delicious twist on a traditional favorite and is sure to please everyone.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe stands out because it blends the heartiness of ground beef with the spiciness of Italian sausage, offering a complex flavor profile that is both satisfying and mouth-watering. The addition of Parmesan cheese and Italian herbs infuses the meatloaf with an authentic Italian taste, making it more flavorful than a standard meatloaf. Furthermore, incorporating marinara sauce not only adds moisture but also enhances the overall dish with its tangy and herby qualities. This combination ensures that each bite is juicy and rich, making the meatloaf a true comfort dish with a gourmet feel.
Another great aspect of this Italian meatloaf is its versatility and ease of preparation. It can be served in numerous ways, making it a practical choice for various meal occasions. You can enjoy it freshly baked with sides, use it to make hearty sandwiches, or even serve it at a potluck. The leftovers (if there are any!) are just as tasty the next day, providing flexible meal options. This recipe is also relatively easy to put together, requiring basic kitchen skills and resulting in a dish that looks as good as it tastes, making it ideal for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.
Ingredients
Ground Beef: Provides rich flavor and hearty texture. Substitute: Ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Italian Sausage: Adds spiciness and depth. Substitute: Ground pork with Italian seasoning for similar flavor.
Breadcrumbs: Help bind the meatloaf and keep it moist. Substitute: Panko or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Parmesan Cheese: Gives a salty, umami kick. Substitute: Asiago or pecorino cheese.
Marinara Sauce:Adds moisture and tangy tomato flavor. Substitute: Crushed tomatoes with added herbs.
Tips
- Mix the ingredients gently to avoid a dense meatloaf.
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes after baking to make slicing easier.
- Add a splash of milk to the meat mixture if it seems too dry.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf is cooked thoroughly to 160°F.
- Top with extra marinara sauce and cheese in the last 10 minutes of baking for a flavorful crust.
How to Serve
Italian meatloaf is a robust and flavorful dish, perfect for family dinners or gathering around the table with friends. It's filling and pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, making it a versatile choice for any meal.
- Serve slices of meatloaf alongside a creamy mashed potato and steamed green beans for a traditional, comforting meal.
- For a lighter option, pair it with a crisp Caesar salad and some garlic bread.
- Consider making meatloaf sandwiches the next day with the leftovers, adding some fresh basil leaves and extra marinara sauce for a delicious lunch.
Similar Recipes
Italian Meatloaf
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- ½ pound Italian sausage casing removed
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce plus more for topping
- 2 eggs
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs basil, oregano, thyme
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, Italian sausage, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, ½ cup marinara sauce, eggs, milk, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. Mix gently until just combined.
- Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Remove from oven, spread the remaining ½ cup of marinara sauce over the top, and sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese.
- Return to oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F.
- Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve hot.
Nutrition
Notes
• Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes after baking to make slicing easier.
• Add a splash of milk to the meat mixture if it seems too dry.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf is cooked thoroughly to 160°F.
• Top with extra marinara sauce and cheese in the last 10 minutes of baking for a flavorful crust.