This Italian Meatloaf is packed with flavor, using ground beef, Italian seasoning, and a zesty marinara sauce. It’s like a cozy hug in every slice!
I love serving it with spaghetti—talk about a comfort food match made in heaven! Plus, leftovers make for great sandwiches the next day. Yum! 😋
Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using a mix of beef and pork for a richer flavor. You can substitute with ground turkey for a lighter option, but it may require adjusting cooking time.
Italian Seasoned Breadcrumbs: These add great flavor, but if you don’t have any, you can make your own by mixing standard breadcrumbs with Italian herbs like oregano and basil.
Parmesan Cheese: This gives a nice depth to the meatloaf. For a dairy-free version, try nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Marinara Sauce: Feel free to use store-bought or homemade sauce. For a twist, try using pizza sauce or a homemade tomato sauce with added herbs.
How Can I Keep My Meatloaf Moist and Delicious?
Keeping meatloaf moist is crucial! Here are my tips:
- Use a combination of ground beef and pork, or add a moisture agent like milk or cheese.
- Don’t overmix the meat mixture; just combine it until everything is well blended to avoid a dense loaf.
- Let the meatloaf rest after baking to allow juices to redistribute before slicing.
Following these steps makes a big difference in the final texture and keeps your meatloaf tender and juicy!
Italian Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef (can use a mix of beef and pork for more flavor)
- 1 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 ½ teaspoons Italian seasoning (or dried oregano and basil mix)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup marinara sauce (plus extra for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of prep time and 60-70 minutes of cooking time. Overall, you’ll need around 1 hour and 15 minutes until you can enjoy your delicious Italian Meatloaf!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will help cook the meatloaf evenly.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, Italian seasoned breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, eggs, milk, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Gently mix everything together using your hands or a spatula until just combined, being careful not to overmix. This will help keep your meatloaf tender!
3. Shape the Meatloaf:
Transfer the meat mixture onto a rimmed baking sheet or a loaf pan. Shape it into a loaf form, making sure it’s even on all sides.
4. Add Marinara Sauce:
Spread about 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly over the top of your meatloaf. This adds great flavor and keeps it moist while baking!
5. Bake in the Oven:
Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for about 60-70 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C) and it’s cooked through.
6. Let It Rest:
Once baked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making it easier to slice.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Garnish with extra chopped parsley for a fresh touch, and serve warm. This meatloaf pairs wonderfully with spaghetti or a fresh side salad. Enjoy!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes, you can use ground turkey for a lighter option! Just keep in mind that it may result in a slightly drier meatloaf, so consider adding a little extra milk or one more egg to maintain moisture.
How Can I Store Leftover Meatloaf?
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it—wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Meatloaf?
Absolutely! Chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach make great additions. Just be sure to chop them finely and consider sautéing them first to reduce moisture, which can affect the texture of the meatloaf.
What Can I Use Instead of Marinara Sauce?
If you don’t have marinara sauce on hand, you can substitute with pizza sauce, crushed tomatoes, or even barbecue sauce for a different flavor. Just ensure whatever you use complements the Italian seasoning in the meatloaf!
