Sitting down to a family dinner is truly heartwarming. It’s filled with laughter and love, just like the food. This Italian meatloaf recipe brings back those special moments. It combines traditional Italian flavors, making every dinner feel special.
Imagine layers of ground beef and sausage with melted mozzarella and marinara sauce. Each bite is a taste sensation. This dish is more than food; it’s a way to feel the warmth of home. Plus, it’s easy to make, ready in about 65 to 70 minutes.
So, gather your family and set the table. This Italian meatloaf recipe will become a favorite. It’s perfect for cozy dinners, where every slice is a sign of love and togetherness.
Key Takeaways
- This Italian meatloaf recipe combines traditional Italian flavors like mozzarella, Parmesan, and marinara sauce.
- The recipe has an easy preparation process, taking about 65 to 70 minutes to cook.
- Each serving contains 585 calories, providing a hearty and nourishing meal.
- The dish offers variations for different preferences, including gluten-free and alternative meat options.
- This meatloaf makes for a perfect family dinner, evoking warmth and connection.
- Linking a gluten-free meatloaf recipe showcases adaptable cooking choices.
Why This Italian Meatloaf Recipe is a Family Favorite
Looking for a dish to bring your family together? Try the family favorite Italian meatloaf. It’s a hearty meal filled with spices and textures. As it bakes, your home will smell amazing with Italian seasoning, garlic, and basil.
Italian cuisine is known for its rich flavors, and this meatloaf is no exception. Each slice is packed with calories, protein, and taste, making it loved by all ages.
This meatloaf shines because of its familiar ingredients like mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. These cheeses add a gourmet twist, making it special. Jane and Mike say adding a 24-ounce jar of marinara sauce or a homemade version makes it irresistible.
The meatloaf makes 8 servings and bakes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 1 hour. It has 212 calories, 19g of protein, and 11.5g of carbs per serving. This shows it’s both hearty and balanced.
Julie likes to use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for different tastes. Others mix Italian sausage with beef for more flavor. Leftover meatloaf is great in sandwiches or as a side with pasta.
Here’s why this recipe is a family favorite:
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Versatility | Offers alternatives like ground turkey or sausage |
| Flavor | Mozzarella, Parmesan, and marinara bring a gourmet touch |
| Aromatic Appeal | Italian seasoning, garlic, and basil fill your home with comforting scents |
| Nutrition | Balanced servings with adequate proteins and fewer carbs |
| Storage | Leftovers are versatile and can be stored for 3 days |
The taste, aroma, and family time around the dinner table make this meatloaf a favorite. Enjoying this meal brings together flavors and people.
Ingredients for the Perfect Italian Meatloaf Recipe
Want to make a meal that’s both delicious and memorable? Knowing the right ingredients for Italian meatloaf is key. This guide covers the must-haves and nice-to-haves that make your meatloaf special.
Essential Ingredients
A great meatloaf starts with the right mix of ingredients:
- Ground Beef: Use one pound of lean ground beef, like 80/20 or 85/15 lean-to-fat ratio.
- Italian Sausage: Add one pound of mild Italian sausage without casings for extra flavor.
- Bread Crumbs: Italian breadcrumbs help hold the mixture together.
- Eggs: Two large eggs keep the meatloaf moist and well-formed.
- Milk: Mix one cup of milk with breadcrumbs for a tender texture.
- Onion and Garlic: Chopped onion and minced garlic add a nice aroma.
- Herbs: Dried oregano, basil, and parsley bring out the Italian taste.
- Marinara Sauce: Use ¾ cup to add moisture and flavor.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a rich taste.
Optional Ingredients and Variations
Want to make your meatloaf even better? Try these optional ingredients and variations:
- Cheese: Mozzarella or provolone cheese makes the center gooey.
- Alternative Meats: Use turkey for a lighter version or mix beef with pork for more flavor.
- Vegetables: Add chopped bell peppers, carrots, or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: Try Panko crumbs for a different texture. Use 3 cups of fresh breadcrumbs if you prefer.
- Wine Substitution: If you don’t like wine, use beef broth mixed with two teaspoons of red wine vinegar instead.
Adding these ingredients can change the flavor and texture of your meatloaf. Knowing how to balance the ingredients makes it easy to make this comforting dish at home. For a step-by-step guide, click here.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Ground Beef | 1 pound | Provides a rich flavor profile |
| Italian Sausage | 1 pound | Adds a flavorful kick |
| Marinara Sauce | ¾ cup | Adds richness and moisture |
| Parmesan Cheese | ½ cup | Enhances depth of taste |
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Italian Meatloaf
Making a tasty Italian meatloaf recipe is easy. Follow these simple steps to create a delicious Italian meatloaf stuffed with mozzarella. It will wow your family and friends. Let’s get started!
Preparation
First, heat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. While it heats up, grease your loaf pan or line it with parchment paper. This makes your meatloaf easy to remove and prevents sticking.
Combining Ingredients
In a big mixing bowl, mix together:
- 1 pound of lean ground beef
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 2/3 cup of seasoned panko crumbs
- 1/3 cup of Italian seasoned bread crumbs
- 3/4 cup of finely chopped yellow onions
- 3 cloves of minced garlic
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 1/2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning
- 1 1/2 teaspoons of coarse kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 cup of marinara sauce
- 2 tablespoons each of fresh basil and fresh parsley, finely chopped
Mix everything well but don’t overdo it. Overmixing can make the meatloaf tough. Then, gently add 8 oz. of low moisture mozzarella cheese, cut into 1/2-inch pieces, and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese.
Baking the Meatloaf
Put the mixture in the loaf pan. Press it down gently to shape it evenly. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of seasoned panko crumbs on top for a nice crust.
Bake for 35-40 minutes. Take it out, add 1 cup of pasta sauce or marinara sauce, and bake for another 10 minutes. This makes the meat juicy and flavorful. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
This meatloaf is perfect for family dinners. You can add red pepper flakes for spice or mix in zucchini or bell peppers for extra flavor.
For more Italian meatloaf recipes, check out Mom’s Dinner. They have many ideas to make your dinner table special.
Serving Suggestions for Italian Meatloaf
Once your meatloaf with ground beef and Italian sausage hits 160°F, it’s ready to be the star of your meal. Let it rest a bit before serving.
Pair the meatloaf with classic sides like mashed potatoes and roasted veggies. For an Italian twist, creamy polenta or a fresh Italian salad works great. These choices boost the meatloaf’s taste and make your plate look good.
Traditional Side Dishes:
- Mashed potatoes offer a smooth contrast to the meatloaf’s hearty texture.
- Roasted veggies like carrots and Brussels sprouts add a sweet, caramelized flavor.
Italian-Inspired Accompaniments:
- Pair it with creamy polenta for a cozy, comforting meal.
- A crisp salad with fresh greens and a light vinaigrette complements the meatloaf’s savory taste.
Looking to get creative with leftovers? Here are some ideas:
- Meatloaf Sandwich: Place meatloaf slices between crusty bread, add marinara sauce, and melt mozzarella for a tasty sandwich.
- Re-baked Meatloaf: Top meatloaf slices with marinara sauce and extra cheese, then bake until it’s bubbly for a new treat.
- Try incorporating meatloaf slices into a hearty pasta for an extra flavor and protein boost.
Whether it’s your first serving or a creative reuse, these ideas make every meal special and satisfying.
Conclusion
This Italian meatloaf recipe is a true comfort food. It combines ground beef, yellow onion, and red pepper with basil, oregano, and smoked paprika. Each ingredient adds to the dish’s flavor and makes it unforgettable.
The recipe is simple, yet it’s packed with flavor. It’s perfect for family dinners because it’s easy to make. The Capocollo, Parmesan, and mozzarella cheese add a delicious Italian twist. Plus, it’s easy to get a golden crust and a moist inside in about 50-60 minutes.
This Italian meatloaf can become a family tradition. You can try different versions like mozzarella-stuffed or spinach and feta. It’s great as a main dish or as leftovers in sandwiches or pizza toppings.
Preparing this meatloaf is more than cooking. It’s about sharing moments with your loved ones. So, get your ingredients ready, preheat your oven, and start this culinary adventure. With this recipe, you’ll create wonderful memories with every bite.