Description
This Classic Italian Meatloaf combines ground beef and mild Italian sausage with aromatic vegetables, herbs, and cheeses for a flavorful and comforting meal. Topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella, it offers a savory Italian twist on a traditional favorite, perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Dairy
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 lb ground mild Italian sausage
- 8 oz shredded mozzarella cheese (reserve 3/4 cup for topping)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 beaten egg
- 1 tablespoon milk
Vegetables
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Dry Ingredients
- 3/4 cup Italian bread crumbs
- 2 slices white bread, crumbled
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
Other
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup marinara sauce (plus extra for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the meatloaf.
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and bell pepper, sautéing until they are softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Mix Meatloaf Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, mild Italian sausage, Worcestershire sauce, dried oregano, basil, and parsley, beaten egg, Italian bread crumbs, crumbled white bread, milk, sautéed vegetables, 5.25 oz of shredded mozzarella cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix everything thoroughly but gently to evenly distribute ingredients without overworking the meat.
- Shape Meatloaf: Transfer the mixture into the greased loaf pan and shape it into a loaf form, compacting lightly to hold its shape.
- Add Sauce: Pour 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly over the top of the shaped meatloaf to add moisture and flavor during baking.
- Bake: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 60-75 minutes. Check that the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) to ensure it is fully cooked.
- Add Cheese Topping: During the last 10 minutes of baking, sprinkle the reserved 2.75 oz of shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the meatloaf to melt and create a delicious cheesy crust.
- Rest Meatloaf: Remove from oven and let the meatloaf rest in the pan for 10 minutes. This resting period helps the juices redistribute, making it easier to slice without crumbling.
- Serve: Slice the meatloaf and serve warm, adding extra marinara sauce on top if desired for additional moisture and flavor.
Notes
- Allow the meatloaf to rest before slicing to keep it moist and prevent falling apart.
- Use fresh bread crumbs if possible for a lighter texture.
- Make sure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for safe consumption.
- Feel free to add chopped fresh parsley for garnish when serving.
- This meatloaf can be made ahead and refrigerated, then reheated gently before serving.
