Amazing Recipe for Italian Meatloaf: A Family Favorite!

A recipe for Italian meatloaf offers a flavorful twist on a classic dish. This recipe, detailed below, provides a step-by-step guide to creating a succulent and aromatic meatloaf infused with traditional Italian herbs and flavors. The result is a comforting and satisfying meal, perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. The instructions are clear and concise, making it accessible to home cooks of all skill levels. This comprehensive guide covers everything from ingredient selection to cooking times and serving suggestions. The recipe also includes helpful tips and frequently asked questions to ensure a successful outcome.

This Italian meatloaf recipe stands out due to its unique blend of ingredients and the careful attention to cooking techniques. The use of high-quality meats, fresh herbs, and flavorful cheeses elevates the dish beyond a simple meatloaf. The process emphasizes slow cooking to ensure a tender and juicy interior, with a perfectly browned exterior. Proper seasoning plays a key role in achieving the optimal balance of flavors. The recipe’s adaptability allows for customization to individual preferences, accommodating dietary restrictions or simply personal taste variations. This results in a dish thats both delicious and customizable, ensuring a satisfying experience.

The recipe’s success hinges on the quality of the ingredients and precise execution of the cooking steps. Using premium ground meats contributes significantly to the final product’s taste and texture. The careful incorporation of Italian herbs and spices brings a distinctive aromatic profile to the dish. Precisely following the instructions, particularly regarding cooking times and temperatures, is crucial for achieving the desired tenderness and doneness. The recipe’s straightforward approach, however, makes it adaptable to individual kitchen setups and preferences. Careful attention to detail throughout the cooking process will yield a truly exceptional meal.

Ingredients for Italian Meatloaf

• 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
• 0.5 lb Italian sausage (sweet or hot, removed from casings)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 1/2 cup marinara sauce

Instructions for this Italian Meatloaf Recipe

1. Preheat oven to 375F (190C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, Italian sausage, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, basil, eggs, milk, onion, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Gently mix until just combined; do not overmix.
3. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a loaf pan.
4. Spread tomato paste evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
5. Pour marinara sauce over the tomato paste.
6. Bake for 60-75 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the center registers 160F (71C).
7. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Italian Meatloaf Recipe

The preparation time for this Italian meatloaf recipe is approximately 20 minutes, followed by a 60-75 minute cooking time in the oven. This yields approximately 6-8 servings. The precise cooking time may vary depending on the oven and the size of the meatloaf. Using a meat thermometer is highly recommended to ensure the meatloaf reaches a safe internal temperature. Properly cooked, this Italian meatloaf is a hearty and flavorful dish suitable for a wide range of occasions. It’s a perfect centerpiece for a family dinner, a casual gathering, or even a more formal setting.

Nutritional Information for Italian Meatloaf

This Italian meatloaf recipe provides a good source of protein from the ground beef and Italian sausage. The addition of vegetables such as onion and garlic contributes dietary fiber and essential vitamins. The cheese and tomato sauce add flavor and nutritional value. However, the recipes fat content should be considered, as ground meats naturally contain higher levels of saturated fat. Nutritional values will vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients used. A nutritional analysis provides a more precise breakdown of the recipe’s nutritional components.

Please note that the following nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and brands used. It is crucial to consult a nutritionist for personalized dietary advice.

Tips for Cooking this Italian Meatloaf

Achieving the perfect Italian meatloaf involves careful attention to detail. Using high-quality ingredients significantly impacts the final flavor and texture. Properly blending the ingredients ensures a cohesive and flavorful meatloaf. Monitoring the cooking temperature is essential to prevent overcooking and dryness. Allowing the meatloaf to rest before slicing allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and juicy final product.

1. Use high-quality ground meats:

   Opt for a blend of ground beef with a higher fat percentage (such as 80/20) for juiciness.

2. Don’t overmix the meatloaf mixture:

   Overmixing can result in a tough meatloaf. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed.

3. Use fresh herbs:

   Fresh herbs will impart a more vibrant flavor than dried herbs.

4. Gently pat the loaf:

   Before placing the loaf in the pan, gently pat down the meatloaf to ensure even cooking.

5. Use a meat thermometer:
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   Check the internal temperature of the meatloaf to ensure it reaches 160F (71C) for food safety.

6. Let it rest:

   Allow the meatloaf to rest for at least 10 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender meatloaf.

The success of this Italian meatloaf recipe lies in its balance of flavors and textures. The combination of ground beef and Italian sausage provides a rich and savory base, while the addition of fresh herbs and spices adds a layer of complexity and depth. Careful attention to the cooking process ensures a moist and tender final product. The recipes versatility allows for adaptation to personal preferences and dietary needs, further enhancing its appeal and practicality.

This recipe’s adaptability allows for creative variations. Consider adding different cheeses, vegetables, or even incorporating different types of ground meat for a unique culinary experience. Experimentation is encouraged to discover your perfect Italian meatloaf recipe. The essential elements remain the same: high-quality ingredients, careful preparation, and mindful cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions about Italian Meatloaf

This section addresses common questions encountered when preparing Italian meatloaf, ensuring a successful outcome for home cooks.

1. Can I use frozen breadcrumbs?

   Yes, you can use frozen breadcrumbs, but make sure to thaw them completely before adding them to the meatloaf mixture.

2. Can I substitute the Italian sausage?

   Yes, you can substitute the Italian sausage with another type of ground sausage, such as ground pork or chicken. The flavor will be different but still delicious.

3. How do I know when the meatloaf is done?

   Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The meatloaf is done when it reaches 160F (71C).

4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

   Yes, you can assemble the meatloaf ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Add 10-15 minutes to the cooking time if baking from cold.

5. What can I serve with Italian meatloaf?

   This Italian meatloaf pairs well with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.

The preparation of Italian meatloaf, while seemingly simple, offers several opportunities for culinary creativity. The balance of flavors achieved through the careful selection of ingredients, coupled with a precise cooking technique, contributes to this dish’s lasting appeal. The recipe’s inherent flexibility encourages experimentation and personal adaptation, making each iteration unique and enjoyable.

In conclusion, this recipe for Italian meatloaf provides a comprehensive guide to creating a delicious and satisfying meal. By following the instructions carefully and employing the tips provided, home cooks can confidently prepare this flavorful dish. The recipes adaptability ensures it caters to various preferences and dietary needs, making it a versatile addition to any culinary repertoire.

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