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This Italian Meatloaf is the perfect cozy meal for any night when you want something hearty, flavorful, and satisfying. Moist and tender, it combines ground beef with Italian herbs and spices, and it’s topped off with a rich marinara sauce and gooey melted mozzarella cheese. It’s a comforting crowd-pleaser that’s simple to pull together without fuss.
I first made this recipe when I wanted something familiar but with a little excitement, and it quickly became a family favorite. Everyone loves how juicy it stays and that crispy cheesy topping that shines under the broiler.
Ingredients
- Two cups marinara sauce: choose a favorite brand you trust homemade or storebought both work well and add tangy flavor
- Two pounds 85 percent lean ground beef: provides richness without too much fat alternative meats like turkey or chicken can be used for a lighter option
- Three slices Italian bread torn into small pieces: this keeps the meatloaf wonderfully moist, better than breadcrumbs
- One cup whole milk: adds moisture and richness to the mixture
- Two eggs at room temperature: helps bind everything together smoothly
- Four cloves garlic minced: fresh garlic adds vibrant aroma and flavor jarred minced garlic can be a time saver
- One tablespoon Italian seasoning: a blend of herbs that brings out classic Italian flavors
- One teaspoon garlic powder and one teaspoon onion powder: enhance the savory depth
- Half teaspoon salt and half teaspoon pepper: adjust according to the saltiness of your seasoning blend
- Two cups shredded mozzarella cheese divided: melts beautifully for gooey texture inside and out
- Two tablespoons chopped parsley optional garnish: adds a fresh herbal note and color
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet or baking dish with parchment paper. Spread one cup of marinara sauce evenly across the bottom and set aside. This will create a flavorful base for your meatloaf to cook on.
- Combine the Meatloaf Mixture:
- In a large bowl, add ground beef, torn bread pieces, whole milk, and eggs. Then add minced garlic, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and one cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Using your hands or a spoon, gently mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
- Shape the Loaf:
- Transfer the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet or dish. Shape it into a loaf about eight inches long and three to four inches wide. Try to keep the shape even so it cooks uniformly.
- Add the Sauce:
- Spread the remaining one cup of marinara sauce generously over the top of the meatloaf. This sauce layer adds extra moisture and flavor during baking.
- Bake Until Done:
- Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven. Bake for about 50 minutes, but start checking the internal temperature after 45 minutes. The goal is to reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit in the center for safe cooking. Ovens vary so keep a close eye.
- Add More Cheese and Broil:
- Remove the meatloaf from the oven. Sprinkle the remaining cup of mozzarella cheese over the top. Switch your oven to the broil setting on high. Broil the meatloaf for about two minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly. Watch carefully as it can burn quickly.
- Rest and Serve:
- Take the meatloaf out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for color and freshness. Slice and serve with additional marinara if desired.
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Mozzarella cheese is my favorite ingredient here because of how creamy and melty it gets. One night, a family gathering turned into a cheese-loving contest where everyone tried to get the biggest gooey mozzarella pull from the sliced meatloaf. That memory still makes me smile.
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to five days. When reheating, warming slowly in the oven helps keep the texture intact without drying out. This meatloaf also freezes beautifully. Wrap the whole loaf tightly or portion it into slices before freezing. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating or baking.
Ingredient Substitutions
Ground turkey or chicken can replace beef for a leaner meatloaf, though expect a slightly different texture and flavor. Using Italian sausage mixed with ground beef adds spice and richness. In place of torn Italian bread, panko breadcrumbs work but add moisture carefully since panko can dry things out if used in excess. For dairy-free options, swap milk for unsweetened almond or oat milk and use a vegan cheese alternative.
Serving Suggestions
This Italian Meatloaf pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed lightly with olive oil and vinegar. Garlic mashed potatoes or creamy polenta add comforting starches. For a classic dinner plate, serve with homemade garlic bread or buttery breadsticks dipped in extra marinara sauce.
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Let the meatloaf rest before slicing so the juices redistribute for moist slices. Serve with extra marinara and enjoy.
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes
- → How to keep the meatloaf moist?
Use torn bread instead of breadcrumbs and avoid over mixing the meat mixture to maintain a tender texture.
- → What sides complement this Italian meat dish?
Serve with pasta in marinara, garlic bread, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
- → Can different cheeses be used?
Mozzarella sticks can be inserted in the center for a gooey cheese core, offering a fun alternative to shredded cheese.
- → Is it possible to prepare in a loaf pan?
Yes, but it's best to use two pans or halve the portions to allow proper cooking and fat drainage.
- → Can it be frozen?
Unbaked or cooked portions can be frozen up to 2-3 months; thaw in the fridge and bake or reheat as needed.