Italian Meatloaf with Mozzarella and Marinara Recipe

Italian Meatloaf with Mozzarella and Marinara Recipe

Introduction:

Italian Meatloaf with Mozzarella and Marinara is a flavorful twist on the traditional meatloaf, combining Italian herbs, gooey melted mozzarella, and rich marinara sauce for an unforgettable dish.

This meatloaf offers the best of Italian cuisine in a comforting, easy-to-prepare meal that’s perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.

The savory blend of ground beef and Italian sausage is seasoned with garlic, basil, oregano, and Parmesan, creating a meatloaf that’s both juicy and packed with flavor.

Baking it with layers of marinara and mozzarella cheese on top adds a touch of indulgence, making each slice ooze with cheesy goodness.

Serve this Italian-style meatloaf with a side of pasta, garlic bread, or a fresh salad to complete the meal.

This recipe is also a great make-ahead dish, as the flavors only improve after a day in the fridge.

Enjoy the comforting richness of Italian Meatloaf with Mozzarella and Marinara—a meal that’s sure to become a household favorite.

Ingredients:

For the Meatloaf:

1 lb (450 g) ground beef

1 lb (450 g) Italian sausage (mild or hot, based on preference)

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (Italian seasoned, or plain with added herbs)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 medium onion, finely diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried basil)

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1/4 cup whole milk

2 large eggs

Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Topping:

1 1/2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)

1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Extra fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions:

Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a baking dish large enough to hold the meatloaf.

Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, Italian sausage, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, diced onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, basil, and oregano. Mix well to evenly distribute all ingredients.

In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. Pour this mixture into the meat mixture, and season generously with salt and black pepper.

Using your hands or a spoon, mix the ingredients until they are fully combined, but avoid over-mixing, as this can make the meatloaf dense.

Shape the Meatloaf:

Transfer the meat mixture onto the prepared baking sheet or dish, shaping it into a loaf approximately 8×4 inches. Press down slightly on the top to create a flat surface for even baking and topping.

Bake the Meatloaf:

Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes, or until the meat is nearly cooked through. This initial baking time allows the meatloaf to set before adding the toppings.

Add the Marinara and Cheese Topping:

After 45 minutes, remove the meatloaf from the oven. Spoon the marinara sauce over the top, spreading it evenly to cover the entire loaf. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the marinara, creating a thick, cheesy topping.

Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden. If desired, you can broil the meatloaf for the last 1-2 minutes to achieve a slightly crispy, browned top, but keep a close eye to avoid burning.

Rest and Garnish:

Remove the meatloaf from the oven and allow it to rest for 5-10 minutes to let the juices settle. This resting period helps the meatloaf stay moist and makes it easier to slice.

Garnish with extra fresh basil or parsley for a burst of color and flavor.

Serve:

Slice the meatloaf and serve hot, spooning any additional marinara sauce from the baking dish over each slice.

This Italian meatloaf pairs wonderfully with pasta, mashed potatoes, or a green salad. Don’t forget to add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for an authentic Italian touch.

Conclusion: Italian Meatloaf with Mozzarella and Marinara is a delightful fusion of classic meatloaf comfort and Italian culinary flair.

Each slice is packed with juicy, savory meat, complemented by the richness of marinara sauce and melted mozzarella.

This dish is ideal for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or anytime you crave a hearty, flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare yet impressive to serve.

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days and reheated, making it a convenient option for meal prep or next-day lunches.

With its irresistible combination of cheese, herbs, and marinara, this Italian meatloaf is a surefire crowd-pleaser that brings a taste of Italy to your table.

Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this delicious meal with family and friends!