Looking for a comforting meal with a hint of Italian flair? Try this Easy Italian Meatloaf! It’s perfect for those who love the simplicity of home cooking but want something a little different. This recipe combines the classic, hearty taste of meatloaf with the zesty, robust flavors of Italy.
Whether you’re a busy parent in need of a quick dinner solution or an aspiring home chef eager to explore new flavors, this Italian Meatloaf is sure to please.
With its juicy ground beef, aromatic herbs, and tangy marinara, all topped with a generous sprinkle of cheese, it’s a dish that promises to be a hit at any family gathering or cozy night in.
So, let’s get cooking and enjoy a meal that’s both satisfying and delicious!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Italian-style meatloaf is everything you love about classic comfort food—with an herby, cheesy twist!
It’s simple to prepare, packed with flavor, and perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. The marinara and melted mozzarella on top give it that irresistible Italian flair that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.
Easy Italian Meatloaf Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Servings: 6 slices
Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Loaf pan
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Spoon or clean hands for mixing
- Oven
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce (plus extra for topping)
- Optional: Shredded mozzarella cheese for topping
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, milk, onion, garlic, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a sturdy spoon to gently mix just until everything is combined. Don’t overmix—this helps keep your meatloaf tender.
Step 3: Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan. Gently press and shape it to fit evenly, smoothing out the top.
Step 4: Spoon 1/2 cup of marinara sauce over the top of the loaf, spreading it out evenly.
Step 5: Bake uncovered for 50 minutes. Then, if using, sprinkle mozzarella cheese and a bit more marinara sauce over the top. Return to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Step 6: Let the meatloaf rest in the pan for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This helps it hold its shape when served.
Pro Tips for the best Italian Meatloaf
- Soften the onions first: If you want an extra layer of sweetness, sauté the chopped onions in a bit of olive oil for 2-3 minutes before mixing them in.
- Try a flavor boost: Add a dash of Worcestershire sauce or a spoonful of tomato paste to the mix for added depth.
- Don’t skip the rest time: This little pause makes all the difference in texture and sliceability!
- Make it ahead: You can assemble the meatloaf a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.
Serving ideas and Storage
- Serving Suggestions Serve with buttery mashed potatoes, garlic bread, or a crisp green salad. Any leftover slices make an amazing meatloaf sandwich the next day!
- Storage Tip Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze individual slices for up to 3 months. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
Easy Italian Meatloaf
Looking for a comforting meal with a hint of Italian flair? Try this Easy Italian Meatloaf! It’s perfect for those who love the simplicity of home cooking but want something a little different. This recipe combines the classic, hearty taste of meatloaf with the zesty, robust flavors of Italy.
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 slices 1x
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce (plus extra for topping)
- Optional: Shredded mozzarella cheese for topping
Kitchen Tools:
- Large mixing bowl
- Loaf pan
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, milk, onion, garlic, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a sturdy spoon to gently mix just until everything is combined. Don’t overmix—this helps keep your meatloaf tender.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan. Gently press and shape it to fit evenly, smoothing out the top.
- Spoon 1/2 cup of marinara sauce over the top of the loaf, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake uncovered for 50 minutes. Then, if using, sprinkle mozzarella cheese and a bit more marinara sauce over the top. Return to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Let the meatloaf rest in the pan for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This helps it hold its shape when served.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
