Easy Made Italian Meatloaf Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Meatloaf:

1 ½ lbs (680 g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)

½ cup (50 g) Italian-style breadcrumbs

½ cup (120 ml) milk

1 egg, beaten

½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp dried oregano

1 tsp dried basil

½ tsp salt

½ tsp black pepper

1 cup (240 ml) marinara sauce, divided

1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella cheese

For the Topping:

½ cup (120 ml) marinara sauce

¼ cup (25 g) shredded mozzarella cheese

1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Construction (How to Make It)

Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.

Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, Parmesan cheese, onion, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, black pepper, and ½ cup of marinara sauce. Mix until just combined (do not overmix).

Shape the Meatloaf: Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it on the baking sheet or into the loaf pan.

Bake: Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes.

Add Topping: Remove from the oven and spread the remaining ½ cup of marinara sauce over the top. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.

Finish Baking: Return to the oven and bake for another 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Rest and Serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Variations

Meat Options: Use ground turkey, chicken, or a mix of beef and sausage for a different flavor.

Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage in place of some ground beef.

Stuffed Meatloaf: Place a layer of sliced mozzarella or provolone cheese inside the meat mixture before shaping.

Vegetable Additions: Mix in finely chopped mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrients.

Low-Carb Version: Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds.

Tips for the Best Meatloaf

Avoid Overmixing: Overworking the meat mixture can make the meatloaf dense and tough.

Use Fresh Garlic & Herbs: Fresh basil and oregano enhance the Italian flavors.

Prevent a Dry Meatloaf: Adding a little extra milk or marinara sauce keeps it moist.

Let It Rest: Resting the meatloaf before slicing helps retain juices.

Make Ahead: Prepare the meatloaf up to a day in advance and refrigerate before baking.

Freezing Instructions: Freeze the raw or cooked meatloaf for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking or reheating.

Would you like serving suggestions or side dish ideas?