Easy Italian Meatloaf

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Juicy, cheesy, and packed with Italian flair, this Easy Italian Meatloaf brings a comforting twist to a beloved classic. Imagine all the bold flavors of your favorite meatball sub—garlic, basil, marinara, and mozzarella—baked into one satisfying loaf. With its gooey cheese topping and aromatic herbs, this dish looks as impressive as it tastes.

Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, this meatloaf pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables. It reheats well, making it ideal for leftovers, and can even be sliced for sandwiches the next day. Whether you’re cooking for family or just yourself, this Italian-inspired comfort food is always a hit.

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Ingredients for this Easy Italian Meatloaf

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (or 2 tsp dried)
• 1 cup marinara sauce (plus more for topping)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

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Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easier cleanup.

Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, Parmesan, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and parsley. Use your hands or a sturdy spoon to mix until everything is just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.

Step 3: Shape and Bake

Press the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing out the top. Spread about 1/2 cup of marinara sauce over the surface. Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.

Step 4: Add Cheese Topping

Remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the top. Return to the oven and bake uncovered for another 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil if desired, and serve with extra marinara sauce on the side.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep my meatloaf from falling apart?

Make sure to use a binding mixture of eggs and breadcrumbs, and don’t skip resting the meatloaf before slicing.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great lean substitute. Just be aware it may result in a slightly drier texture.

What kind of cheese works best?

Mozzarella is classic, but provolone or a mix of Italian cheeses will also be delicious.

Can I prep this meatloaf ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the meatloaf and store it uncooked in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

Should I drain the grease after baking?

If using higher-fat ground beef, draining excess grease before adding the cheese topping can help avoid sogginess.

What can I serve with Italian meatloaf?

Roasted vegetables, a fresh arugula salad, or garlic bread make perfect pairings.

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