Classic Italian Meatloaf is the ultimate comfort food for anyone who loves hearty, flavorful meals with an Italian twist. This recipe brings together tender ground beef and pork, classic herbs, and a cheesy, saucy topping that always gets rave reviews at the dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, the aroma alone will draw everyone to the kitchen, eager for a generous slice. This dish is as satisfying as it is simple, making it a go-to favorite for busy weeknights and cozy weekends alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in Classic Italian Meatloaf has a special role, from building a tender, juicy base to layering on rich, savory flavors and gooey cheese. Here’s what you’ll need to create this beloved classic, and why you shouldn’t skip a single component:
- Ground beef: The main protein, providing rich flavor and a hearty texture.
- Ground pork: Adds extra juiciness and a subtle sweetness that perfectly balances the beef.
- Italian-style breadcrumbs: Hold everything together while delivering herby notes right into the loaf.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Infuses every bite with salty, nutty depth and a bit of melt-in-your-mouth magic.
- Large eggs: The essential binder, giving your meatloaf structure without making it dense.
- Whole milk: Keeps everything moist and helps the breadcrumbs do their job.
- Finely chopped onion: Brings sweetness and aromatic flavor that pairs beautifully with the beef and pork.
- Minced garlic: A must for that unmistakable Italian aroma and savory kick.
- Fresh parsley (or dried): Adds a burst of color and fresh, peppery flavor.
- Fresh basil (or dried): Delivers classic Italian notes and a sweet, herbal aroma.
- Dried oregano: Rounds out the herb blend with earthy, slightly bitter undertones.
- Salt: Enhances all the other flavors and makes everything pop.
- Black pepper: Adds gentle heat and complexity without overwhelming the dish.
- Marinara sauce: Brings tangy, tomato-rich moisture to the top and keeps the loaf from drying out.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into a golden, bubbly topping that makes each slice irresistibly cheesy.
How to Make Classic Italian Meatloaf
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This gives you just enough time to gather your ingredients and prep your workspace. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan—this will make cleanup a breeze and help release the meatloaf effortlessly once it’s baked.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add your ground beef, ground pork, Italian-style breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, eggs, milk, onion, garlic, parsley, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. The key here is to mix until everything is just combined; overmixing can make your Classic Italian Meatloaf tough. Use your hands or a large spoon and stop as soon as the mixture is evenly blended.
Step 3: Shape the Loaf
Transfer the meat mixture to your prepared baking sheet or loaf pan. Shape it into a loaf about 8 inches long and 4 inches wide. If you’re using a pan, gently pat it down to fill the corners, but don’t pack it too tightly—this helps the meatloaf cook evenly and stay tender.
Step 4: Add the Marinara
Spoon one cup of marinara sauce over the top of the loaf, spreading it evenly to cover the surface. This step not only infuses the meat with extra flavor, but also creates a gorgeous, glossy topping that will bake up perfectly.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place your loaf in the oven and bake for 45–50 minutes. The aroma of Classic Italian Meatloaf will start to fill your kitchen as it cooks. When the time is up, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top and return it to the oven for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Step 6: Rest, Slice, and Serve
Once your meatloaf is cooked through, let it rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This helps all those delicious juices redistribute, so each slice is moist and flavorful. Serve with extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping or drizzling.
How to Serve Classic Italian Meatloaf
Garnishes
For an eye-catching finish, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or basil over the top just before serving. A little grated Parmesan or a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil adds even more Italian flair and makes your Classic Italian Meatloaf look as appetizing as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This meatloaf loves company! Serve thick slices alongside creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad. For a true Italian feast, pair it with garlic bread or buttered pasta tossed with a little extra marinara sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing the meatloaf thickly and layering it on toasted ciabatta with melted mozzarella for a decadent sandwich. Or, cut it into cubes and skewer with roasted veggies for a playful appetizer spread. Classic Italian Meatloaf is as versatile as it is delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover meatloaf is a gift! Store any extra slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors actually improve as they meld, making for an even tastier lunch or quick dinner later in the week.
Freezing
If you want to keep Classic Italian Meatloaf on hand for busy nights, let it cool completely, then wrap individual slices or the entire loaf tightly in foil and plastic wrap. Freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, place slices in a baking dish with a splash of marinara sauce, cover with foil, and warm in a 325°F (163°C) oven until heated through. You can also microwave individual slices, but oven reheating keeps the texture just right and the cheese perfectly melty.
FAQs
Can I use just ground beef for Classic Italian Meatloaf?
Absolutely! While the combination of beef and pork creates a juicier, more flavorful loaf, you can use only ground beef if that’s what you have on hand. Just keep an eye on moisture, as beef alone can be a bit leaner.
What’s the best way to keep my meatloaf from falling apart?
The secret is in the ratio of breadcrumbs and eggs, which act as binders. Make sure you don’t skip either, and let the loaf rest after baking so it slices cleanly without crumbling.
Can I make Classic Italian Meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the loaf up to a day in advance and keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. This makes dinnertime a breeze, especially on busy nights.
How do I know when my meatloaf is done?
The most reliable way is to use a meat thermometer. Classic Italian Meatloaf is ready when the center hits 160°F (71°C). The cheese should be melted and bubbly, with the loaf firm but juicy.
Is there a way to make this recipe a bit lighter?
For a leaner version, substitute ground turkey for the beef and pork, and opt for low-fat cheese. Just keep in mind that you may want to add a little extra milk or a splash of olive oil to maintain moisture.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dish that brings everyone running to the table, Classic Italian Meatloaf is it. It’s simple, satisfying, and loaded with the comforting flavors we all crave. Give it a try and watch it become a new family favorite—don’t be surprised if you get requests for it week after week!
Print
Classic Italian Meatloaf Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Classic Italian Meatloaf combines ground beef and pork with Italian herbs, Parmesan, and mozzarella cheese for a comforting, flavorful main dish. Topped with marinara sauce and baked to perfection, it’s a hearty meal perfect for family dinners or make-ahead meals throughout the week.
Ingredients
Meatloaf Mixture
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 lb ground pork
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Topping
- 1 cup marinara sauce (plus more for serving)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the meatloaf evenly.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, Italian-style breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, eggs, whole milk, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, basil, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined, careful not to overwork the mixture to keep the meatloaf tender.
- Shape the Loaf: Transfer the mixture to a parchment-lined baking sheet or a loaf pan. Shape it into a loaf form, making sure it’s evenly shaped for uniform cooking.
- Add Marinara Sauce: Spoon 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly over the top of the meatloaf, spreading it to cover the surface.
- Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. This initial baking cooks the meatloaf through.
- Add Cheese and Continue Baking: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Return it to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Rest: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes after baking. This helps the juices redistribute and makes slicing easier.
- Serve: Slice and serve warm with extra marinara sauce on the side if desired.
Notes
- This meatloaf can be prepared ahead of time and reheated for quick meals throughout the week.
- For a leaner version, substitute ground beef and pork with ground turkey and use low-fat cheese.
- If you prefer a gluten-free option, use gluten-free Italian-style breadcrumbs.
- Fresh herbs can be replaced with dried at one-third the quantity if needed.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 670mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 31g
- Cholesterol: 125mg
