Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a hearty, flavorful meal that’s both comforting and satisfying? Then look no further! This old-fashioned Italian meatloaf recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. It’s bursting with the rich flavors of Italy, and it's surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks. Get ready to experience the magic of homemade cooking with this delicious dish!
Ingredients:
This recipe makes a generous meatloaf, perfect for feeding a family of four to six. You can easily halve the recipe if needed.
- 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 0.5 lbs ground Italian sausage (sweet or hot, your preference!)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (Italian seasoned breadcrumbs are ideal)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
Get started: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan. This ensures easy removal of your perfectly cooked meatloaf later.
Prepare the meat mixture: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, Italian sausage, onion, and garlic. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
Add the remaining ingredients: Stir in the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, milk, crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined. Remember, gentle mixing is key for a tender meatloaf.
Shape and bake: Carefully transfer the meat mixture to the prepared loaf pan and shape it into a loaf. Drizzle the olive oil over the top of the meatloaf.
Bake to perfection: Bake for 60-75 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure it's cooked through. If the top starts to brown too quickly, loosely tent it with foil.
Rest and serve: 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 meatloaf.
Tips for the Best Italian Meatloaf:
- Don't overmix: Overmixing the meat mixture can result in a tough meatloaf. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Use a meat thermometer: This ensures your meatloaf is cooked through to a safe internal temperature.
- Let it rest: Allowing the meatloaf to rest before slicing helps retain its moisture and makes for easier slicing.
- Get creative with toppings: Before baking, you can add a layer of mozzarella cheese or even some sliced mushrooms for extra flavor.
Variations:
- Spicy Meatloaf: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the meat mixture for a spicy kick.
- Veggie Meatloaf: Add chopped vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers to the meat mixture for a healthier twist.
- Cheese Lover's Meatloaf: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese over the top of the meatloaf before baking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Protein: Approximately 25-30g Fat: Approximately 20-25g Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This old-fashioned Italian meatloaf recipe is a testament to the simple pleasures of homemade cooking. Enjoy this delicious and comforting meal with your loved ones! It's perfect for a cozy night in and is sure to become a family favorite. Remember to share your culinary creations and tag us in your photos! Happy cooking!