Description
Hearty Italian Meatloaf brings classic comfort directly from Mediterranean kitchens with rich ground beef, herbs, and tangy marinara sauce. Robust flavors and simple preparation guarantee a satisfying meal you will savor with family and friends.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 1.5 pounds (680 grams) ground beef
Binding and Flavor Enhancers:
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup freshly grated vegetarian Parmesan-style cheese (or a plant-based Parmesan alternative)
Herbs and Seasonings:
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the oven by heating to 350°F (175°C), ensuring a perfectly consistent cooking environment for the meatloaf.
- In a spacious mixing bowl, thoroughly combine ground beef with breadcrumbs, integrating Parmesan, egg, milk, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Use a gentle folding technique to maintain a light texture.
- Carefully transfer the meat mixture into a loaf pan, pressing gently to create an even, compact surface. Alternatively, form a uniform loaf on a lined baking sheet.
- Lavishly coat the top of the meatloaf with marinara sauce, which will enhance moisture and flavor during baking.
- Slide the meatloaf into the preheated oven and roast for approximately 60 minutes, monitoring until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for safe consumption.
- During the final 10 minutes of cooking, sprinkle a generous layer of mozzarella cheese across the surface, allowing it to melt and create a tantalizing golden crust.
- Remove from the oven and let the meatloaf rest for 8-10 minutes, allowing internal juices to redistribute and ensuring each slice remains succulent and flavorful.
Notes
- Gently mix ingredients by hand to prevent a dense, tough texture that can happen with overmixing.
- Choose lean ground beef (85-90% lean) to reduce excess grease while maintaining rich flavor and moisture.
- Customize the herbs by experimenting with fresh Italian parsley or adding red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Consider gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs to make the recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 24 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg