Italian Meatloaf Recipe

by
A slice of Italian meatloaf served with spaghetti and marinara sauce, garnished with parsley, alongside garlic bread on a white plate.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Italian meatloaf combines classic comfort food with Mediterranean flavors. Perfect for family dinners, it features a blend of ground meats, Italian herbs, and a rich tomato glaze that transforms the traditional American meatloaf into something extraordinary.

Pure Comfort

Imagine cutting into a perfectly cooked meatloaf that’s moist, tender, and infused with garlic, herbs, and Parmesan cheese. The aroma of Italian seasonings fills your kitchen, creating that welcoming atmosphere that only home-cooked meals can provide.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef (80/20)
  • 1/2 pound ground pork
  • 1 cup Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 medium onion, finely diced
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Glaze

  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons honey

What You Need

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Loaf pan (9×5 inch)
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Small bowl for glaze
  • Meat thermometer

Time to Cook

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Rest Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Steps to Make It

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, pork, breadcrumbs, eggs, and Parmesan cheese.
  3. Add milk, diced onion, minced garlic, herbs, salt, and pepper.
  4. Mix gently with your hands until just combined. Don’t overmix.
  5. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place in the prepared pan.
  6. Mix glaze ingredients in a small bowl.
  7. Pour half the glaze over the meatloaf.
  8. Bake for 45 minutes, then add remaining glaze.
  9. Continue baking for 15 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  10. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Make It Perfect

  • Don’t overmix the meat mixture to keep it tender
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure proper cooking
  • Let the meatloaf rest before slicing
  • Create a free-form loaf for more crusty exterior

Mix It Up

  • Add diced bell peppers for extra flavor and color
  • Include sun-dried tomatoes for intense Italian flavor
  • Use ground turkey for a lighter version
  • Add crushed red pepper flakes for heat

Perfect Partners

  • Garlic mashed potatoes
  • Roasted Italian vegetables
  • Caesar salad
  • Crusty Italian bread
  • Sautéed green beans with garlic

Busy Day Hero

Prepare the meatloaf mixture in the morning and refrigerate. Pop it in the oven when you get home for a stress-free dinner.

Work Ahead

  • Mix and shape the meatloaf up to 24 hours ahead
  • Prepare the glaze in advance
  • Double the recipe and freeze one loaf
  • Chop vegetables the day before

Save Some For Later

  • Refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days
  • Freeze sliced meatloaf for up to 3 months
  • Use leftovers in sandwiches
  • Crumble into pasta sauce

Everyone’s Happy

This versatile recipe pleases both traditional meatloaf lovers and Italian food enthusiasts. Kids love it too!

Good For You Too

  • High in protein
  • Rich in vitamins from fresh herbs
  • Source of calcium from Parmesan
  • Can be made leaner with turkey

Easy Clean Up

  • Line the loaf pan with parchment paper
  • Use disposable gloves when mixing
  • Prep ingredients in dishwasher-safe bowls
  • Clean as you go

Switch It Up

  • Make mini meatloaves for faster cooking
  • Shape into meatballs
  • Create a stuffed version with mozzarella
  • Use as filling for stuffed peppers

Simply Perfect

This Italian meatloaf combines the best of both worlds: traditional comfort food with Italian flair. It’s perfect for Sunday dinners, meal prep, or any time you want a satisfying, flavorful meal.

FAQs

  1. Can I make this meatloaf without pork?
    Yes, use all beef or substitute with ground turkey.
  2. Why does my meatloaf fall apart?
    This usually happens from too few binders (eggs/breadcrumbs) or not letting it rest before slicing.
  3. Can I make this in advance?
    Yes, prepare up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate unbaked.
  4. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
    Slice and reheat in a covered skillet with a splash of broth.
  5. Can I freeze this meatloaf?
    Yes, wrap well and freeze for up to 3 months.
  6. Why add milk to meatloaf?
    Milk helps keep the meatloaf moist and tender.
  7. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
    Yes, use one-third the amount of dried herbs.
Unbaked Italian meatloaf on a tray, topped with marinara sauce and grated mozzarella cheese, ready for the oven.

Why Choose Italian Meatloaf?

Italian meatloaf stands out for its vibrant medley of flavors, often featuring a combination of ground meats (beef, pork, or veal) mixed with breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and fresh parsley. Its unique flavor profile makes it a hit when paired with classic sides like pasta or roasted vegetables.

Serving Suggestions

Italian meatloaf is versatile and can be paired with various side dishes, including pasta, polenta, or salads. Experiment with classic Italian sides to complement its bold flavors.

  • Check out Italian Breakfast Food for light pairings like salads or bread that enhance the meatloaf experience.

Conclusion

Whether hosting a dinner party or preparing a comforting family meal, Italian meatloaf is a flavorful and satisfying choice. Enhance your culinary journey with insights from related recipes and preparation techniques on Only Italian Recipes.