Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a hearty, flavorful meal that’s both satisfying and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further than this Cooks Country Italian Meatloaf recipe! We're taking the beloved classic meatloaf and giving it a delicious Italian twist, packed with sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and aromatic herbs. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner, a casual weekend gathering, or even a special occasion – it’s guaranteed to impress! It’s a fantastic example of delicious dishes you can create with homemade cooking, offering a quick dinner idea that's both healthy and satisfying.
Ingredients: A Symphony of Flavors
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for even the busiest weeknights.
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1/2 pound ground Italian sausage (sweet or hot, your choice!)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended for extra crispness)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed
- 1/4 cup pitted Kalamata olives, halved
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions: Creating Culinary Magic
This easy recipe guides you through the process with simple, clear steps.
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, ground Italian sausage, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, garlic, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), and parsley. Season generously with salt and pepper. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in a tough meatloaf.
Step 2: Shape the Loaf: Lightly grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan. Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared pan and shape it into a loaf.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection: Drizzle the top of the meatloaf with olive oil. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). A meat thermometer is your best friend here!
Step 4: Rest and Serve: Once cooked, let the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product.
Tips and Tricks for Meatloaf Mastery
- For extra flavor, use a combination of ground beef and pork.
- Don't be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices. Try adding a pinch of fennel seeds or thyme.
- If you prefer a sweeter meatloaf, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes or omit them entirely.
- To prevent the top from drying out, you can tent it with foil during the last 20 minutes of baking.
Variations: Expand Your Culinary Horizons
- Veggie Boost: Add 1/2 cup of finely chopped vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers to the meat mixture for added nutrients and flavor.
- Cheese Please: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese over the top of the meatloaf during the last 15 minutes of baking for a cheesy, gooey finish.
- Spicy Kick: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicier meatloaf.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This Cooks Country Italian Meatloaf is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. Enjoy this flavorful and satisfying dish, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. It’s a testament to how simple homemade cooking can be, yielding delicious results every time!