What ingredients do I need to make traditional Italian meatloaf?

Traditional Italian meatloaf typically includes ground beef and pork, Italian bread crumbs, eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped onions, garlic, fresh parsley, marinara sauce, and Italian seasoning like oregano and basil. Some recipes also add ricotta or mozzarella cheese inside for extra creaminess. Using a combination of meats and fresh herbs gives the meatloaf its signature moist texture and robust flavor.

How do I cook Italian meatloaf to keep it moist?

To keep Italian meatloaf moist, avoid overmixing the meat, which can make it dense. Use a mixture of ground beef and pork, as pork adds fat that helps retain moisture. Adding soaked bread crumbs or ricotta cheese also improves texture. Bake at 350°F (175°C) until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C), and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.

Can I prepare Italian meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes, Italian meatloaf can be prepared a day in advance. Shape and season the meatloaf, then cover and refrigerate overnight. This resting time enhances the flavors. You can either bake it the next day or bake it fully and then reheat. When reheating, cover with foil to retain moisture, and warm in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until heated through.

What are the best side dishes to serve with Italian meatloaf?

Classic side dishes for Italian meatloaf include garlic mashed potatoes, sautéed green beans, roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers, and a fresh garden salad. You can also serve it with pasta tossed in olive oil and herbs or a crusty Italian bread to soak up any extra sauce.

How do I store Italian meatloaf leftovers safely?

Store leftover Italian meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking. It will keep well for 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil; frozen meatloaf stays good for up to 3 months. Thaw frozen meatloaf in the fridge overnight before reheating gently in the oven.

Italian Meatloaf Recipe With Classic Herbs And Savory Sauce

Name: Italian Meatloaf
Prep time: PT-492056H24M21S
Cook time: PT-492056H9M21S
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: – 1 small onion, cut into 1-inch pieces; – 1 carrot, cut into 1-inch pieces; – 1 stalk celery, cut into 1-inch pieces; – 3 garlic cloves; – 2 tablespoons olive oil; – 2 large eggs; – ¼ cup finely chopped fresh basil; – 1 teaspoon salt; – ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; – 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; – 2 pounds meatloaf mix (or 1½ pounds 85% lean ground beef plus ½ pound ground pork); – ⅔ cup Italian-style bread crumbs; – ¾ cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano; – ¾ cup marinara sauce, plus more for serving

Description

🍖 This Italian Meatloaf offers classic herbs and a savory marinara sauce, creating a flavorful and comforting dinner option.
🍅 Combining fresh vegetables and rich cheeses, it delivers a moist and well-seasoned meal that the whole family will enjoy.

Ingredients

– 1 small onion, cut into 1-inch pieces

– 1 carrot, cut into 1-inch pieces

– 1 stalk celery, cut into 1-inch pieces

– 3 garlic cloves

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– 2 large eggs

– ¼ cup finely chopped fresh basil

– 1 teaspoon salt

– ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

– 2 pounds meatloaf mix (or 1½ pounds 85% lean ground beef plus ½ pound ground pork)

– ⅔ cup Italian-style bread crumbs

– ¾ cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano

– ¾ cup marinara sauce, plus more for serving

Instructions

1-Follow these directions to bring your Italian meatloaf to life. Start with the veggies: Pulse the onion, carrot, celery, and garlic in a food processor until minced, or chop them finely by hand.

2-Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, add the minced vegetables, and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until softened but not browned. Let them cool slightly before mixing.

3-In a large bowl, whisk 2 large eggs with ¼ cup finely chopped fresh basil, 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, and 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce. Add 2 pounds of meatloaf mix, ⅔ cup Italian-style bread crumbs, ¾ cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano, and the cooled vegetables. Mix everything with your hands until just combined.

4-Shape the mixture into a 9×5-inch loaf on the prepared baking sheet and spread ¾ cup marinara sauce evenly on top. Bake for 65 to 70 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F. Let it rest for 10 minutes, then slice and serve with extra marinara sauce.

Notes

🔪 Use a food processor to chop vegetables quickly; rough chop first for even texture.
🍳 Cook vegetables until softened but avoid browning for best flavor.
🍞 Shape the loaf free-form on baking sheet for well-browned crust and to allow fat to render out.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 65-70 minutes
Cook Time: 65-70 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 585
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 966mg
Fat: 42g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 35g
Cholesterol: 180mg

Keywords: italian meatloaf,classic herbs,marinara sauce,comfort food