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Best Italian Meatloaf
Move over plain meatloaf — this Best Italian Meatloaf recipe is here to change your dinner game. Bursting with bold herbs, melted mozzarella, and rich tomato sauce, this dish is like combining classic meatloaf with your favorite Italian pasta night.
It’s everything you love about comfort food — tender, savory, hearty — but with an upgrade. Serve it with mashed potatoes, pasta, or garlic bread for the ultimate family dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Classic comfort with Italian flair
- Stays moist thanks to cheese and sauce
- Great for leftovers — makes delicious sandwiches
- Freezer-friendly for easy meal prep
- Kid-approved and budget-friendly
Ingredients
Serves: 6–8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Meatloaf:
- 1½ lbs ground beef (85% lean)
- ½ lb ground Italian sausage
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¾ cup marinara sauce (plus more for topping)
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese (stuffed inside)
Topping:
- ½ cup marinara sauce
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley or basil (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment or lightly grease a loaf pan.
Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf
In a large bowl, combine beef, sausage, breadcrumbs, eggs, onion, garlic, Parmesan, tomato paste, seasonings, and ¾ cup marinara. Mix gently until just combined.
Step 3: Add Cheese Filling
On a sheet of parchment or foil, shape half the meat mixture into a loaf base. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese down the center, avoiding edges. Top with the remaining meat mixture, sealing the cheese inside.
Step 4: Bake
Transfer to the pan and bake for 40 minutes. Remove, top with ½ cup marinara and mozzarella, and return to oven for another 15–20 minutes, or until internal temp reaches 160°F (71°C).
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Let meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with parsley or basil, and serve with extra sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this meatloaf with:
- Spaghetti or penne pasta
- Mashed potatoes or garlic bread
- Roasted veggies or a Caesar salad
Recipe Tips & Variations
- Spicy twist: Use hot Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes
- Make it leaner: Use ground turkey or chicken with extra sauce to keep it moist
- Stuffed version: Try adding sautéed spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or olives inside
- No breadcrumbs? Use crushed crackers or oats instead
Storage & Freezing
- Store in the fridge for up to 4 days
- Reheat in the oven at 325°F for best results
- Freeze cooked meatloaf slices or whole loaf (wrapped tightly) for up to 3 months
FAQ
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes — use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.
Can I skip the sausage?
You can replace it with more ground beef, but sausage adds rich flavor.
Is it good for meal prep?
Absolutely. Slice and portion for lunches or freeze for quick dinners.
Can I use jarred marinara?
Yes, use your favorite brand or homemade sauce.
Final Thoughts
This Best Italian Meatloaf brings bold Italian flavors to a comforting American classic. It’s cheesy, saucy, and packed with everything that makes a family dinner unforgettable.
Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or prepping ahead for the week, this recipe delivers on taste, texture, and total satisfaction.
