Easy Italian Meatloaf – A Comforting Family Favorite
A tender, flavorful Italian-style meatloaf made with ground beef, Italian sausage, herbs, and cheese, topped with marinara and baked to perfection.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
Ingredients
-
1 lb ground beef (80/20)
-
½ lb Italian sausage (casings removed)
-
¾ cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
-
½ cup milk
-
2 eggs
-
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
-
1 small onion, finely chopped
-
2 cloves garlic, minced
-
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
-
1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
-
1 tsp Italian seasoning
-
Salt and pepper to taste
-
¾ cup marinara or crushed tomatoes
-
1 cup shredded mozzarella (optional, for stuffing)
Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment or grease a loaf pan.
-
Sauté chopped onions in olive oil until soft. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds. Cool.
-
In a large bowl, combine beef, sausage, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, Parmesan, herbs, sautéed onion/garlic, and seasoning.
-
Mix gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
-
Shape into a loaf and place on baking sheet. For stuffed version, add half mixture, layer mozzarella, and top with remaining meat.
-
Spread marinara or tomatoes over top.
-
Bake 55–65 minutes, until internal temp reaches 160°F.
-
Let rest 10 minutes before slicing. Broil 2–3 minutes for crispy top (optional).
Notes
-
Make ahead and refrigerate raw loaf overnight.
-
Substitute turkey or gluten-free ingredients as needed.
-
Store leftovers up to 4 days or freeze for 3 months.