Italian Meatloaf

Rich Italian herbs, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes are combined to create Italian Meatloaf, a robust and savory take on the traditional American comfort food. This variation of the original recipe is made into a savory, delicious dish that’s ideal for family dinners, all topped with melted mozzarella and a zesty tomato sauce.

Tasting Notes

This Italian Meatloaf boasts a perfect balance of savory Italian herbs, garlic, and the richness of ground beef. The addition of tomato sauce gives it a moist and flavorful texture, making each bite a taste of Italy.

Ingredients

• 1.5 pounds ground beef
• 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Kitchen Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking dish
• Aluminum foil
• Cooking spray
• Meat thermometer

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, milk, eggs, chopped onion, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
3. Shape the Meatloaf: Form the meat mixture into a loaf shape and place it in a greased baking dish.
4. Top with Tomato Sauce: Pour the tomato sauce over the meatloaf, spreading it evenly to coat the top.
5. Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) on a meat thermometer.
6. Rest and Slice: Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Pro Tips

• For added flavor, sauté the onions and garlic before adding them to the meat mixture.
• Mix the ingredients gently to avoid compacting the meat, ensuring a tender texture.

Variations

• Add a layer of mozzarella cheese on top of the meatloaf during the last 10 minutes of baking for a cheesy twist.
• Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or thyme to personalize the flavor profile.

FAQs