Cheesy Italian Meatloaf

Cheesy Italian Meatloaf: A Flavorful Twist on a Classic Comfort Dish

Meatloaf is a beloved comfort food in many households, but what happens when you take that classic recipe and give it an Italian twist? You get Cheesy Italian Meatloaf—a hearty, flavorful dish that combines the savory goodness of traditional meatloaf with the rich flavors of Italian ingredients like marinara sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan. The result? A melt-in-your-mouth meatloaf that’s both comforting and satisfying.

Whether you’re looking to switch up your regular dinner routine or need a dish to serve at a family gathering, this Cheesy Italian Meatloaf will quickly become a favorite. It’s easy to make, filled with bold flavors, and sure to impress your loved ones.

Why You’ll Love Cheesy Italian Meatloaf

• Cheesy and Flavorful: The combination of melted mozzarella and Parmesan inside the meatloaf adds an extra layer of flavor and a creamy texture that’s absolutely irresistible.
• Quick and Easy: While this recipe might seem fancy, it’s surprisingly easy to make with just a few ingredients and minimal prep time.
• A Perfect Family Meal: This dish is perfect for feeding a crowd or a hungry family. It’s hearty, filling, and sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• One-Pan Wonder: The meatloaf bakes in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. Plus, you can add a side of roasted veggies or garlic bread to complete the meal.

Ingredients for Cheesy Italian Meatloaf

For the Meatloaf:

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork for extra flavor)
• 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of basil, oregano, and thyme)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)

For the Topping:

• 1/2 cup marinara sauce (for spreading on top)
• 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese (for sprinkling)

Instructions for Cheesy Italian Meatloaf

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until it’s well combined, but be careful not to overwork the mixture to keep the meatloaf tender.

Step 3: Add Mozzarella Cheese

Once the meat mixture is ready, stir in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. This will create pockets of gooey, melty cheese inside the meatloaf, adding richness and flavor to each bite.

Step 4: Form the Meatloaf

Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan, shaping it into a loaf. Make sure to spread the mixture evenly, pressing it slightly to ensure there are no air pockets.

Step 5: Add the Topping

Spread ½ cup of marinara sauce over the top of the meatloaf. This will help keep the meatloaf moist while baking and infuse the dish with more