Easy Italian Meatloaf: A Flavorful Comfort Food
Craving a hearty, home-cooked meal that's packed with flavor? Look no further than this easy Italian meatloaf recipe. This classic comfort food gets a delicious Italian twist with the addition of aromatic herbs, savory Italian sausage, and a rich marinara sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, this meatloaf is sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 1lb. ground beef
- 1/2 lb. ground mild Italian sausage
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 C. chopped bell pepper
- 1 tsp. olive oil
- 1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp. dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp. dried basil
- 1/2 tsp. dried parsley
- 1 egg, beaten
- 3/4 C. Italian bread crumbs
- 2 slices white bread, crumbled
- 1 T. milk
- 8 oz. shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 C. Parmesan cheese
- 1 C. marinara sauce
- Additional marinara sauce for topping
Instructions
- Prep the aromatics: In a small skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sauté the onion and bell pepper for 3-4 minutes until softened. Set aside to cool.
- Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, Italian sausage, sautéed onion and pepper, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, oregano, basil, parsley, egg, Italian bread crumbs, crumbled white bread soaked in milk, and 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese. Use your hands to mix the ingredients thoroughly until well combined.
- Shape and bake: Transfer the meatloaf mixture to a baking dish and mold it into a loaf shape. Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly over the top. Bake in a preheated 400°F oven for 50 minutes.
- Add cheese and finish: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and top with the shredded mozzarella cheese and a sprinkle of dried basil. Return to the oven for an additional 10 minutes, or until the meat is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meatloaf mixture.
- If you prefer a spicier meatloaf, use hot Italian sausage instead of mild.
- To make this recipe ahead of time, assemble the meatloaf mixture and refrigerate overnight.
- Serve with additional marinara sauce, mashed potatoes, or a green salad.
This easy Italian meatloaf is a delicious and satisfying dish that's perfect for any occasion. The combination of ground beef, Italian sausage, and aromatic herbs creates a flavorful and juicy meatloaf. Topped with melted mozzarella cheese and a rich marinara sauce, this meatloaf is sure to become a family favorite.
The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity. With just a few basic ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a delicious and impressive meal on the table in no time. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, this meatloaf is a great option for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
So next time you're craving comfort food, give this easy Italian meatloaf recipe a try. You won't be disappointed!
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