Elevate your meatloaf experience with a culinary journey to Italy! Our Easy Italian Meatloaf recipe brings together ground beef, Italian sausage, and a harmonious blend of aromatic herbs, promising a flavor explosion that transcends the ordinary. Let’s delve into the heartiness of this delectable dish that fuses the best of traditional meatloaf with the rich flavors of Italian cuisine. 🇮🇹🍽️
Ingredients:
To embark on this culinary adventure, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1/2 lb. ground mild Italian sausage
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 C. chopped bell pepper (choose your favorite color!)
- 1 tsp. olive oil
- 1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp. oregano
- 1/2 tsp. basil
- 1/2 tsp. parsley
- 1 egg, beaten
- 3/4 C. Italian bread crumbs
- 2 slices white bread, crumbled
- 1 T. milk
- 8 oz. shredded mozzarella cheese (reserve 3/4 C. for topping)
- 1/4 C. parmesan cheese
- 1 C. marinara sauce, plus extra for topping
How To Make:
Follow these simple steps to create the mouthwatering Italian Meatloaf:
- Sauté onions and bell peppers in olive oil until tender. Set aside to cool.
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, Italian sausage, sautéed veggies, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, oregano, basil, parsley, beaten egg, bread crumbs, crumbled white bread, milk, mozzarella (reserving 3/4 C.), and parmesan cheese. Mix the ingredients thoroughly for a well-blended mixture.
- Mold the mixture into a baking dish and spread 1/2 to 3/4 C. of marinara sauce on top, ensuring a flavorful coating.
- Bake at 400°F for 50 minutes, allowing the meatloaf to cook through.
- Top the meatloaf with the reserved mozzarella and a sprinkle of dry basil. Continue baking for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the dish is cooked to perfection.
- Ensure the meatloaf isn’t pink before serving, guaranteeing a safe and delicious meal.
Serve up a Slice of Italy:
This Italian Meatloaf is more than just a dish; it’s a slice of Italy on your plate! Perfectly seasoned and layered with cheesy goodness, each bite promises to transport you to the heart of Italian culinary excellence. Buon Appetito! 🇮🇹🍷
Conclusion:
In conclusion, our Easy Italian Meatloaf is a testament to the art of blending flavors, combining the familiar comfort of traditional meatloaf with the bold and savory essence of Italian cuisine. The meticulous selection of ingredients and the thoughtful infusion of herbs and cheeses result in a dish that is not only visually appealing but also a true delight for the taste buds.
Whether you’re a meatloaf enthusiast or an aficionado of Italian flavors, this recipe offers a perfect fusion that will leave you craving more. So, embark on this gastronomic journey, savor the rich flavors, and relish the satisfaction of serving up a slice of Italy at your dining table. Buon Appetito!