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Easy Italian Meatloaf Recipe: Tender, Savory, and Full of Flavor

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An easy Italian meatloaf recipe packed with Parmesan, herbs, and marinara sauce. Moist, cheesy, and full of bold Italian flavor—perfect for weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • lbs ground beef (or 1 lb beef + ½ lb pork)

  • ¾ cup Italian breadcrumbs

  • ¼ cup milk

  • 2 large eggs

  • 1 small onion, diced

  • 23 garlic cloves, minced

  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1 tsp salt

  • ½ tsp black pepper

  • 2 tsp dried Italian seasoning

  • 1 cup marinara sauce (plus ½ cup extra for serving)

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella (optional filling or topping)

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • Chopped parsley or basil for garnish

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

  • In a skillet, sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until soft. Let cool.

  • In a bowl, mix breadcrumbs and milk. Let sit 2–3 minutes.

  • In a large bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumb mixture, eggs, cooked aromatics, Parmesan, seasonings, and herbs.

  • Mix gently. Shape into a loaf on parchment-lined baking sheet.

  • Optional: Add mozzarella in the center before shaping loaf.

  • Spoon marinara over top.

  • Bake uncovered for 45–55 minutes, or until internal temp is 160°F.

  • Optional: Add mozzarella on top in last 10 minutes.

  • Let rest 10 minutes. Slice and serve with extra sauce.

Notes

  • Swap meat for turkey or veggie meat for variation.

  • Add spinach or mushrooms to boost nutrition.

  • Freeze cooked or uncooked for up to 3 months.