Italian Meatloaf Recipe
Introduction
Italian Meatloaf is a comforting twist on a classic favorite, combining savory ground beef with flavorful Italian seasoning and marinara sauce. This hearty dish is perfect for a family dinner and pairs well with a simple salad or garlic bread.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, Italian seasoning, and half of the marinara sauce. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Step 2: Shape the mixture into a loaf on a baking sheet or in a loaf pan. Spread the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the top of the loaf.
- Step 3: Bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).
- Step 4: Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips & Variations
- For added moisture, mix in 1/4 cup of milk or grated Parmesan cheese into the meat mixture.
- Try adding finely chopped onions and garlic for extra flavor.
- Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or a mix of beef and pork for a different taste and texture.
- Use your favorite marinara sauce or homemade sauce for a personalized touch.
Storage
Store leftover Italian meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm slices gently in the microwave or oven until heated through. You can also freeze the meatloaf for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make Italian meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture and shape the loaf a day in advance. Keep it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.
What can I serve with Italian meatloaf?
Italian meatloaf pairs well with pasta, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
PrintItalian Meatloaf Recipe
A classic Italian Meatloaf combining seasoned ground beef with savory breadcrumbs, eggs, and marinara sauce, baked to perfection. This hearty dish infuses traditional Italian flavors into a comforting and easy-to-make meal, perfect for family dinners.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 3/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce, plus extra for topping
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, 1/2 cup marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly with your hands or a spoon until well incorporated, ensuring the seasoning is evenly distributed.
- Shape the Meatloaf: Transfer the meat mixture onto a baking sheet or loaf pan. Shape it into a loaf form about 8 inches long and 4 inches wide. Smooth the top evenly for even cooking.
- Add Sauce Topping: Spread a thin layer of additional marinara sauce over the top of the meatloaf for added moisture and flavor that caramelizes while baking.
- Bake the Meatloaf: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake uncovered for 55 to 60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the meatloaf is cooked through.
- Rest Before Serving: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a moist, flavorful meatloaf when sliced.
Notes
- Use fresh breadcrumbs for a lighter texture, or panko for extra crunch on the exterior.
- Italian seasoning can be substituted with a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme if desired.
- Letting the meatloaf rest before slicing helps keep it moist.
- For a lower fat option, substitute half the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken.
Keywords: Italian meatloaf, classic meatloaf, baked meatloaf, Italian beef dish, easy meatloaf recipe
