why make this recipe
Italian Meatloaf is a delightful twist on the classic American meatloaf. This dish stands out because of its rich flavors, thanks to the blend of ground meats, fresh herbs, and the hearty tomato sauce. It’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prep, as it holds its taste well for days. Plus, it’s a comforting meal that brings a touch of Italy to your table.
how to make Italian Meatloaf
Ingredients:
- 4 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil, divided
- 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped (about 2 cups), divided
- 12 garlic cloves, finely chopped (about 4 Tbsp.), divided
- 2 1/4 tsp. kosher salt, divided
- 1 (28 oz.) can whole tomatoes
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, plus more for serving
- 1 Tbsp. tomato paste
- 1 large egg
- 1 large egg yolk
- 4 oz. Italian bread or other soft day-old bread, torn into small pieces (about 3 cups)
- 1 oz. Pecorino Romano, finely grated (about 1/2 cup)
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 12 oz. (80 percent lean) ground beef chuck
- 12 oz. ground pork
- 5 oz. whole milk mozzarella, shredded
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a medium pot over medium heat. Cook 1 1/2 cups of chopped onion until it becomes translucent, which takes about 5 minutes. Add 2 tablespoons of chopped garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Season with 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
- Crush the canned tomatoes in a small bowl. Add these tomatoes to the pot, along with the fresh basil and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Cook this mixture until it thickens, about 15-20 minutes. Then, remove it from the heat.
- In a small skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Cook the rest of the onion until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the remaining garlic, cook until fragrant, and stir in the tomato paste until it turns brick red, about 1 minute. Let this mixture cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled tomato paste mixture with the egg, egg yolk, torn bread, Pecorino Romano cheese, and milk. Mix everything until it is well combined. Then, gently fold in the ground beef and ground pork, seasoning with the remaining salt.
- Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Spread 2/3 cup of the sauce over the top and sides of the meatloaf.
- Bake for 30 minutes. After that, sprinkle the mozzarella on top and bake until the cheese is melted and the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees F, which will take about another 30 minutes.
- Serve the meatloaf topped with additional basil and the reserved sauce.
how to serve Italian Meatloaf
Italian Meatloaf is best served warm. Slice it and place it on individual plates, adding a generous spoonful of the rich tomato sauce on top. You can garnish it with fresh basil leaves for a bright touch. Pair it with sides like mashed potatoes, a simple green salad, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
how to store Italian Meatloaf
To store Italian Meatloaf, first, let it cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it. Just make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn. It will last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven.
tips to make Italian Meatloaf
- Be sure to use fresh herbs for the best flavor.
- Don’t skip the step of cooking the onion and garlic before adding them to the meat mixture; this adds depth to the dish.
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes after baking before slicing. This helps keep it moist.
- You can customize this recipe by adding your favorite spices or veggie mix-ins for extra flavor.
variation
For a lighter version, consider substituting ground turkey for beef and pork. You can also mix in other vegetables, such as diced bell peppers or grated zucchini, to add moisture and nutrition without changing the flavor much.
FAQs
Q: Can I make Italian Meatloaf ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the meatloaf and shape it, then cover and refrigerate it until you are ready to bake.
Q: What can I serve with Italian Meatloaf?
A: Italian Meatloaf pairs well with mashed potatoes, pasta, or a fresh salad.
Q: Can I use different cheeses in this recipe?
A: Yes, you can replace the mozzarella with another cheese, such as provolone or cheddar, according to your taste preferences.
