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One of the most defining characteristics of Italian meatloaf is the addition of marinara sauce, which is often spread over the top during baking, creating a beautiful and flavorful glaze that ties the whole dish together. The cheese—whether it’s mozzarella, provolone, or Parmesan—is often melted into the loaf or sprinkled on top for added creaminess and texture.
In this recipe, we’ll break down how to make an easy, straightforward Italian meatloaf that incorporates all of these ingredients, with a few modern twists to make it even more convenient without compromising on flavor.
### Ingredients for Easy Made Italian Meatloaf
Before diving into the recipe itself, let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need to prepare your Italian meatloaf. These ingredients are easy to find at any local grocery store, and the combination of them will give you a hearty and flavorful dish.
#### **Meats**
– **Ground Beef**: The base of your meatloaf. A mix of ground beef and pork will give the loaf a juicy and tender texture.
– **Ground Pork**: Adds moisture and richness to the loaf. Some people also use veal for a more delicate flavor, but ground pork is the most common option.
#### **Binders and Fillers**
– **Breadcrumbs**: Use plain breadcrumbs or Italian-style breadcrumbs to give the meatloaf structure and to absorb some of the moisture from the meats.
– **Eggs**: The eggs act as a binder to hold the mixture together. They provide structure and moisture to the loaf.
– **Milk**: Soaked into the breadcrumbs, milk makes the meatloaf more moist and tender.
#### **Seasonings and Flavorings**
– **Garlic**: Fresh minced garlic adds an aromatic depth and brings a strong Italian flavor.
– **Fresh Basil**: Italian basil is a must-have for a fresh and aromatic flavor that’s integral to Italian cuisine.
– **Oregano**: Oregano is another staple herb in Italian dishes and complements the basil beautifully.
– **Parsley**: Fresh parsley adds color and freshness to the dish.
– **Salt and Pepper**: Essential seasonings to taste.
#### **Cheese**
– **Parmesan Cheese**: Adds a salty, nutty flavor and helps bind the meat mixture together.
– **Mozzarella or Provolone**: For extra richness and gooey texture, mozzarella or provolone cheese is often used. Some people stuff the middle of the meatloaf with cheese for a cheesy center.
#### **Toppings**
– **Marinara Sauce**: The classic Italian touch! A rich tomato-based sauce is spread on top of the meatloaf, providing flavor and moisture as it bakes.
**Optional Add-ins**
– **Red Wine**: A splash of red wine adds depth to the flavor. This is optional but recommended for an authentic Italian taste.
– **Bell Peppers or Onions**: If you like your meatloaf with more vegetables, finely chopped bell peppers or onions can add sweetness and texture.
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