Savory Italian Meatloaf Recipe Quick Easy Delicious

Introduction

Have you ever wondered why some meatloaf recipes just seem to hit the spot, while others leave you feeling unsatisfied? The secret might lie in the perfect balance of classic Italian flavors. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the art of crafting an Italian meatloaf that will have your taste buds singing with delight. Get ready to elevate your family’s dinner experience with this mouthwatering recipe that’s sure to become a new household favorite.

Ingredients List of Italian Meatloaf

• 1.5 pounds ground beef
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup diced onion
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup marinara sauce (plus more for serving)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Substitution ideas: For a leaner version, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. Swap the Parmesan for pecorino romano or asiago cheese. Fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or rosemary can also be used in place of the dried varieties.

Timing

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour and 20 minutes

This Italian meatloaf recipe takes approximately 20% less time to prepare than the average meatloaf, making it a great option for busy weeknights.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure your meatloaf cooks evenly and develops a delicious, golden-brown crust.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, onion, garlic, eggs, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a sturdy spoon to mix the ingredients until they are evenly distributed and well-incorporated.

Step 3: Shape the Meatloaf

Lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with cooking spray or olive oil. Gently press the meatloaf mixture into the pan, shaping it into an even, compact loaf. This will help the meatloaf hold its shape during baking.

Step 4: Top with Sauce and Cheese

Spread the marinara sauce evenly over the top of the meatloaf, then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top. This not only adds delicious flavor but also helps to keep the meatloaf moist and juicy.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). The meatloaf should be cooked through and the cheese should be melted and bubbly on top.

Step 6: Let it Rest

Once the meatloaf is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful result.

Nutritional Information

• Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 4 oz)
• Calories: 360
• Total Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Cholesterol: 120mg
• Sodium: 760mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 18g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 30g

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

To make this Italian meatloaf a bit healthier, you can try the following modifications:

• Use a leaner ground beef, such as 93% lean, to reduce the overall fat content.
• Substitute whole wheat breadcrumbs or oats for the panko to increase the fiber and whole grain content.
• Reduce the amount of cheese by using a mix of low-fat mozzarella and Parmesan.
• Incorporate additional vegetables, like shredded zucchini or grated carrots, to boost the nutrient profile.
• Serve the meatloaf with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad to round out the meal.

Serving Suggestions

This Italian meatloaf pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with:

• Creamy mashed potatoes or roasted garlic mashed cauliflower for a comforting, starch-based accompaniment.
• A crisp Caesar salad or a simple mixed green salad with a tangy Italian dressing.
• Freshly steamed or roasted broccoli, asparagus, or green beans for a healthy vegetable side.
• Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread to soak up the delicious marinara sauce.

For a complete Italian-inspired meal, consider serving the meatloaf with a side of pasta, such as spaghetti or penne, tossed in additional marinara sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Italian meatloaf, here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overworking the Meat: Be gentle when mixing the ingredients to prevent the meatloaf from becoming dense and tough.
• Dry Meatloaf: Ensure you don’t overbake the meatloaf, which can lead to a dry and crumbly texture. Use a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature.
• Soggy Bottom: Make sure to grease the loaf pan properly and avoid overfilling it, which can cause the bottom of the meatloaf to become soggy.
• Bland Flavor: Don’t be shy with the seasonings! Adjust the amounts of herbs, garlic, and Parmesan to your taste preferences for maximum flavor.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Leftover Italian meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer-term storage, the meatloaf can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, simply thaw the meatloaf in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it in the oven or microwave until heated through.

To prep ingredients ahead of time, you can:

• Mix the meatloaf ingredients and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking.
• Make the marinara sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator or freezer for quick assembly.
• Grate the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses ahead of time and keep them in separate airtight containers in the fridge.

Conclusion

Elevate your dinner routine with this delectable Italian meatloaf recipe. By combining classic Italian flavors and a few simple tricks, you can create a comforting and satisfying dish that the whole family will love. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your experience in the review section below! For more mouthwatering recipes and cooking tips, be sure to subscribe to our blog.

FAQs

A: Can I use a different type of ground meat instead of beef?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative to beef. The key is to maintain the overall ratios of the other ingredients to ensure the meatloaf holds together and cooks evenly.

B: How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this Italian meatloaf gluten-free, substitute the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. You can also use almond flour or oat flour as a binding agent instead of traditional breadcrumbs.

C: Can I prepare the meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. This can be a great time-saver for busy weeknights. Just be sure to let the mixture come to room temperature before shaping and baking the meatloaf.

D: How can I make this recipe more budget-friendly?

To save on costs, you can use a leaner ground beef, such as 93% lean, and substitute the Parmesan cheese with a more affordable option like shredded cheddar or Italian blend cheese. You can also reduce the amount of cheese used and focus on maximizing the flavor with herbs and spices.

E: Can I make this meatloaf in advance and freeze it?

Absolutely! This Italian meatloaf freezes beautifully. After baking, let the meatloaf cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw the meatloaf in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat it in the oven until heated through.

Savory Italian Meatloaf Recipe Quick Easy Delicious

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• Author: felis
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

Savor our Italian Meatloaf Quick easy recipe w delicious flavor Ideal for busy weeknights Familyfriendly

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

1.5 pounds ground beef

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup diced onion

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 eggs, lightly beaten

1 tablespoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 cup marinara sauce (plus more for serving)

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

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Instructions

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, onion, garlic, eggs, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.

Lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with cooking spray or olive oil. Gently press the meatloaf mixture into the pan, shaping it into an even, compact loaf.

Spread the marinara sauce evenly over the top of the meatloaf, then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top.

Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Once the meatloaf is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Category: Main Course
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6 servings
• Calories: 360
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 30g

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