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Classic Italian Meatloaf

Classic Italian Meatloaf: Comfort Food for All Family Nights

Classic Italian Meatloaf combines hearty meatloaf with vibrant Italian flavors for a delightful family meal.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Meatloaf
  • 1 pound Ground Beef Choose 80/20 beef for optimal flavor and juiciness.
  • 1 pound Ground Mild Italian Sausage Substitute with spicy Italian sausage for a kick.
  • 1 small Onion (finely chopped) Can use shallots for a milder taste.
  • 1 cup Chopped Bell Pepper Any color can be used according to preference.
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil Can substitute with any cooking oil.
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce
  • 3 cloves Garlic (minced) Fresh is preferred, but granulated can work as a substitute.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano Use three times the amount of fresh herbs if available.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Basil Use three times the amount of fresh herbs if available.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Parsley Use three times the amount of fresh herbs if available.
  • 1 large Egg Acts as a binder to keep the meatloaf together.
  • 1 cup Italian Bread Crumbs Add texture while absorbing moisture.
  • 2 slices White Bread (crumbled) Use gluten-free bread for a gluten-free option.
  • 1/2 cup Milk Softens the bread and adds moisture.
  • 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Reserve some for topping.
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Adds nutty, salty dimension enhancing other flavors.
  • 1 cup Marinara Sauce Use your favorite brand or homemade.

Equipment

  • medium skillet
  • large mixing bowl
  • baking dish

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your baking dish by lightly greasing it or lining it with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and bell pepper and sauté for about 5-7 minutes.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and ground Italian sausage with the sautéed vegetables. Pour in Worcestershire sauce and add minced garlic, oregano, basil, and parsley.
  4. Fold in the Italian bread crumbs, crumbled white bread, and milk into the mixture. Add the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring gently to combine.
  5. Transfer the meat mixture to your prepared baking dish, shaping it into a loaf form roughly 2 inches high.
  6. Spread a generous layer of marinara sauce over the meatloaf and sprinkle with reserved mozzarella cheese.
  7. Bake for 60-75 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
  8. Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 22gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 95mgSodium: 580mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 180mgIron: 3mg

Notes

For best results, use a blend of 80/20 ground beef and Italian sausage for balance of flavor. Avoid leaner cuts to prevent dryness.

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