Best Cheesy Italian Meatloaf

Best Cheesy Italian Meatloaf is a comforting, flavorful twist on a classic dish. This meatloaf is packed with Italian herbs, gooey mozzarella cheese, and a rich marinara sauce that takes it to the next level. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy family gathering, this meatloaf is easy to make and bursting with the delicious flavors of Italy. Serve it with a side of pasta, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

Table of Contents

• Ingredients
• Instructions
• Tips for Perfect Cheesy Italian Meatloaf
• Recipe Variations
• FAQs
• Serving Suggestions
• Conclusion

Ingredients

• 2 lbs ground beef (or a mixture of ground beef and ground pork)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1 large egg
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce, divided
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, milk, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
3. Shape the Meatloaf: On the prepared baking sheet, shape the meat mixture into a loaf, roughly 9×5 inches in size. Make a shallow indentation down the center of the loaf.
4. Add Cheese and Sauce: Spoon 1/2 cup of marinara sauce over the top of the meatloaf, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce, pressing gently so it adheres.
5. Bake: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
6. Add More Marinara: During the last 10 minutes of baking, spoon an additional 1/2 cup of marinara sauce over the meatloaf to add more flavor and moisture.
7. Rest and Serve: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve with the remaining marinara sauce on the side.

Tips for Perfect Cheesy Italian Meatloaf

• Don’t Overmix: Mix the meatloaf ingredients just until combined to avoid a dense texture.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, onion, and herbs add a lot of flavor to this dish, so use fresh ingredients whenever possible.
• Let It Rest: Letting the meatloaf rest before slicing helps retain its juices, ensuring a moist and tender result.

Recipe Variations

• Stuffed Meatloaf: For an extra cheesy surprise, place additional mozzarella cheese in the center of the meatloaf before shaping it.
• Spicy Meatloaf: Add 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the meat mixture for a bit of heat.
• Vegetable Addition: Add finely chopped bell peppers or spinach to the meat mixture for added flavor and nutrition.

FAQs

Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
A: Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner option, but the cooking time may need slight adjustment. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Q: Can I freeze the meatloaf?
A: Yes, you can freeze the meatloaf either before or after baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking or reheating.

Serving Suggestions

• With Pasta: Serve slices of meatloaf over a bed of spaghetti with extra marinara sauce for a comforting Italian-inspired meal.
• With Roasted Vegetables: Pair with roasted vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or zucchini for a well-rounded dinner.
• With Garlic Bread: Serve alongside garlic bread for a classic Italian side that helps soak up the delicious marinara sauce.

Best Cheesy Italian Meatloaf is a delicious and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The Italian herbs, gooey cheese, and marinara sauce combine to create a flavorful and satisfying meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds. It’s easy to make, full of classic Italian flavors, and perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a hearty and cheesy Italian meatloaf with your loved ones. It’s sure to become a new favorite in your household!