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Italian-Style Meatloaf Recipe

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4 from 77 reviews

This Italian-Style Meatloaf combines classic Italian flavors like garlic, basil, oregano, and Parmesan cheese with hearty ground beef for a comforting, delicious meal. Enhanced with a tangy marinara sauce and melty mozzarella, it’s a savory twist on traditional meatloaf that’s perfect for family dinners.

  • Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Meatloaf Ingredients

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 medium green bell pepper, seeded, membranes removed, and chopped
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 teaspoons dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 1/2 cups panko (Japanese breadcrumbs)
  • 2 cups marinara sauce, divided (your favorite)
  • 1/4 cup dry red wine
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for sprinkling over meatloaf
  • 2 cups shredded Mozzarella cheese
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • Cooking spray (if needed)

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a rimmed baking sheet with two layers of nonstick aluminum foil or use heavy-duty aluminum foil sprayed lightly with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil over medium-high heat in a nonstick skillet or sauté pan. Add the chopped onion, reduce heat to medium, and cook for 3-4 minutes until it begins to soften. Add the chopped green bell pepper and sauté for another 2-3 minutes until tender.
  3. Add Garlic and Herbs: Stir in the minced garlic, dried basil, and oregano. Remove the pan from heat and transfer the mixture to a large bowl. Allow it to cool slightly before proceeding.
  4. Mix Meatloaf Base: To the cooled mixture, add the fresh parsley, panko breadcrumbs, 1 cup of marinara sauce, dry red wine, Worcestershire sauce, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, beaten eggs, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
  5. Add Ground Beef: Incorporate the ground beef into the mixture, mixing gently and thoroughly, but avoid overworking the meat to keep the meatloaf tender.
  6. Shape the Meatloaf: Transfer the meat mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and shape it neatly into a loaf form.
  7. Bake the Meatloaf: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 55-60 minutes.
  8. Add Sauce and Finish Baking: Remove the meatloaf from the oven, pour the remaining 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly over the top, and return it to the oven. Continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center registers 165°F.
  9. Rest and Serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Optionally, sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese on top before serving for extra flavor.

Notes

  • Do not overmix the meat mixture to avoid a dense meatloaf.
  • Using fresh herbs where possible will enhance the flavor.
  • If you do not consume alcohol, you can substitute the red wine with additional marinara sauce or beef broth.
  • Letting the meatloaf rest allows juices to redistribute, keeping slices moist.
  • For easier cleanup, use a rimmed baking sheet lined with foil as instructed.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Find it online: https://allyumcooks.com/italian-style-meatloaf-recipe/