EASY MADE ITALIAN MEATLOAF

The Ultimate Italian Meatloaf Recipe: A Comfort Food Classic with a Cheesy Twist

Few dishes embody comfort food quite like a perfectly baked Italian Meatloaf. Juicy, flavorful, and packed with cheesy goodness, this recipe takes traditional meatloaf to a whole new level. By combining ground beef with mild Italian sausage, fresh herbs, and two types of cheese, this dish delivers a mouthwatering experience in every bite. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or an impressive meal to serve guests, this Italian Meatloaf is bound to become a family favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Italian Meatloaf

• Packed with Flavor – A blend of ground beef and Italian sausage adds depth and richness.
• Cheesy Goodness – Mozzarella and Parmesan cheese make this meatloaf irresistibly cheesy.
• Easy to Prepare – Simple steps and everyday ingredients make this a stress-free recipe.
• Perfectly Moist – A combination of breadcrumbs, milk, and egg ensures a juicy texture.
• Customizable – Adjust the seasonings and cheese to suit your taste!

Ingredients & Their Role in the Recipe

Meat & Base Ingredients:

• 1 lb. ground beef – The primary protein base for a rich, hearty meatloaf.
• 1/2 lb. ground mild Italian sausage – Adds a touch of spice and extra juiciness.

Flavor Enhancers:

• 1 small onion, finely chopped – Provides sweetness and depth of flavor.
• 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper – A slight crunch and mild sweetness (I used orange, but any color works!).
• 1 tsp. olive oil – Used to sauté the onion and pepper for better texture and taste.
• 1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce – Brings umami and a hint of tanginess.
• 1 clove garlic, minced – Essential for classic Italian flavor.
• 1/2 tsp. oregano, 1/2 tsp. basil, 1/2 tsp. parsley – A trio of Italian herbs for authentic taste.

Binding & Texture:

• 1 egg, beaten – Helps bind the ingredients together.
• 3/4 cup Italian bread crumbs – Absorbs moisture and enhances texture.
• 2 slices white bread, crumbled – Adds softness to the meatloaf.
• 1 tablespoon milk – Keeps the mixture moist and tender.

Cheese & Sauce:

• 8 oz. shredded mozzarella cheese – Melty, gooey goodness throughout (reserve 3/4 cup for topping).
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese – Adds a nutty, salty bite.
• 1 cup marinara sauce (+ 1/2 to 3/4 cup extra for topping) – Provides a rich tomato base.

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Easy Italian Meatloaf

Step 1: Preheat & Prep the Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Chop the onion and bell pepper finely.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a small skillet, heat 1 teaspoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onions and bell peppers, sautéing for about 3-4 minutes until soft. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Step 3: Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, Italian sausage, sautéed onion and peppers, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, oregano, basil, parsley, beaten egg, Italian bread crumbs, crumbled white bread, and milk.

Use your hands to mix everything thoroughly—this ensures an even distribution of ingredients.

Step 4: Incorporate the Cheese

Gently fold in shredded mozzarella (reserving 3/4 cup for topping) and Parmesan cheese.

Step 5: Shape & Bake

Transfer the mixture into a baking dish (I used an oval Portuguese stoneware dish). Shape it into a loaf form. Spread 1/2 to 3/4 cup marinara sauce evenly over the top.

Bake at 400°F for 50 minutes.

Step 6: Add the Final Cheese Topping

Remove the meatloaf from the oven. Sprinkle the reserved 3/4 cup mozzarella cheese over the top, followed by a light dusting of dried basil for extra flavor.

Return to the oven for another 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 7: Check for Doneness & Serve

Ensure the meatloaf is cooked through—there should be no pink in the center, and the internal temperature should read 160°F (71°C). Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Italian Meatloaf

• Don’t Overmix – Overworking the meat mixture can make the meatloaf dense.
• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh garlic, onions, and herbs make a world of difference.
• Let it Rest – Allowing the meatloaf to sit before slicing helps retain its juices.
• Customize the Cheese – Try using provolone or fontina for a different cheesy experience.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this delicious Italian Meatloaf with:

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes – A creamy, buttery side that complements the flavors.
• Roasted Vegetables – Adds a healthy, colorful element to the meal.
• Garlic Bread – Because you can never have too much Italian goodness!
• Caesar Salad – A crisp, tangy contrast to the rich meatloaf.

Final Thoughts: Why This Italian Meatloaf Stands Out

This Easy Italian Meatloaf is a game-changer for anyone looking for a comforting, cheesy, and flavor-packed dinner. The combination of Italian sausage, fresh herbs, and gooey cheese makes every bite irresistible. Plus, the simple preparation means you can have a restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort.

Give this recipe a try tonight—you won’t regret it! Don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below!