Description
This Classic Italian Meatloaf combines ground beef and mild Italian sausage with aromatic herbs, sautéed vegetables, and a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella, this hearty dish offers a comforting, flavorful twist on the traditional meatloaf recipe, perfect for a family dinner.
Ingredients
Meatloaf Mixture
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 lb ground mild Italian sausage
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 beaten egg
- 3/4 cup Italian bread crumbs
- 2 slices white bread, crumbled
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 8 oz shredded mozzarella cheese (5.25 oz mixed inside, 2.75 oz reserved for topping)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Topping and Sauce
- 1 cup marinara sauce (plus extra for serving, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven 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 after baking.
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and bell pepper, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute to release its aroma. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Mix Meatloaf Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, mild Italian sausage, Worcestershire sauce, dried oregano, basil, parsley, beaten egg, Italian bread crumbs, crumbled white bread, milk, the sautéed vegetable mixture, 5.25 oz of shredded mozzarella cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Form Meatloaf: Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan and shape it evenly into a loaf, pressing gently to ensure it holds together during baking.
- Add Sauce Topping: Pour 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly over the top of the meatloaf to add moisture and flavor.
- Bake the Meatloaf: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 60 to 75 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the internal temperature reads 160°F (71°C) on a meat thermometer.
- Add Cheese Topping: In the last 10 minutes of baking, sprinkle the reserved 2.75 oz of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the meatloaf. Return to the oven to allow the cheese to melt and become golden.
- Rest the Meatloaf: Once baked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. This step lets the juices redistribute for a moist and tender slice.
- Serve: Slice the meatloaf and serve warm, optionally topped with extra marinara sauce for added flavor.
Notes
- Using a meat thermometer ensures the meatloaf is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Letting the meatloaf rest before slicing helps retain moisture and prevents crumbling.
- Feel free to customize the herbs according to your taste preferences.
- Leftover meatloaf can be refrigerated and served cold or reheated for meals the following day.
