With its savory spices and mozzarella topping, this Italian Meatloaf is fit for a feast!
Italian meatloaf is a family favorite in my house. Any time all the relatives come over, I make a double or triple batch of this classic. And my friends? Well, let’s just say if I accidentally slip that it’s meatloaf night, they stop by unannounced, usually with a bottle of wine in hand.
What makes Italian meatloaf so good? Basically, it’s a meatball in the shape of a loaf of bread, hence the name. So, if you like meatballs, you’ll most definitely dig this recipe, too. It comes with all the traditional flavors, like Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan generously mixed in with pork and beef. What’s not to love?
However, my favorite bit of this recipe is the mozzarella cheese topping. Maybe it’s just me, but not too many meatloaves are topped with cheese. This recipe remedies this culinary tragedy. Between the bubbly cheese and marinara sauce, there’s no doubt this Italian meatloaf will be a hit with friends and fam.
Is This Italian Meatloaf Healthy?
The healthiness of this recipe depends on individual dietary needs, but my rule of thumb is always to take a closer look at the ingredients. This recipe is high in saturated fat. Feel free to use only ground turkey and skip the mozzarella cheese topping.
Need it to be gluten-free? Simply swap out the breadcrumbs and replace them with flaxseed meal. To do this, substitute an equal amount of flaxseed meal for breadcrumbs (e.g., half a cup of breadcrumbs = half a cup of flaxseed meal). Flaxseed meal binds the meatloaf beautifully while adding a subtle nutty flavor. It’s an easy way to create a gluten-free dish without compromising texture or taste.
Of course, serving this meatloaf with plenty of vegetables will improve its nutritional profile.
Fresh Herbs In Meatloaf
My tip with this dish is to substitute the seasonings for fresh ones wherever you can. Fresh garlic, oregano, and basil can really boost this meatloaf’s already amazing flavor. Try using freshly minced garlic in addition to the garlic powder—the combo adds a lot of depth! Chop fresh oregano and basil to mix them into the meatloaf mixture, and feel free to keep some of the dried herbs as well.
How To Make Ahead And Store
Once cooked and cooled, store the meatloaf in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the microwave for 2 or 3 minutes until hot. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy this dish with Herb-Roasted Potatoes, creamy Polenta, or a crusty garlic bread baguette! I also love my side of veggies. Pair it with Sautéed Broccolini, Roasted Green Beans, or Asparagus Risotto. If you have leftovers, this meatloaf makes a great sandwich. Simply slice it and top it with melted cheese (panini style is the best)!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef 85% lean
- 1/2 pound ground pork
- 1 cup Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce plus extra, for serving
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, eggs, parsley, garlic powder, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan, shaping it into a loaf. Spread marinara sauce evenly over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Remove from oven and sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
- Return to oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F.
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with additional marinara sauce if desired.
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
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