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### How to Make Easy Italian Meatloaf
Now that we have all the ingredients in place, let’s jump into the preparation and cooking process. The recipe is simple and straightforward, and you’ll have a delicious Italian meatloaf ready in about an hour.
#### **Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan**
– Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). You want the oven to be hot so that the meatloaf cooks evenly.
– Prepare a baking pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper. If you want to create a crusty exterior, you can form the meatloaf into a loaf shape and place it directly on the baking sheet. Alternatively, you can place it in a loaf pan for a more uniform, tender result.
#### **Step 2: Prepare the Breadcrumbs and Milk**
– In a large mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Let the mixture sit for a few minutes, allowing the breadcrumbs to soak up the milk and soften. This helps to ensure the meatloaf remains moist.
#### **Step 3: Add the Meats and Seasonings**
– Once the breadcrumbs are softened, add the ground beef and ground pork to the bowl.
– Add the minced garlic, chopped basil, oregano, parsley, salt, and pepper. Add the Parmesan cheese and, if you’re using it, the red wine.
– Crack in the eggs to help bind the mixture together. Use your hands or a spoon to gently mix the ingredients until everything is well combined, but be careful not to overwork the mixture, as this can result in a tough meatloaf.
#### **Step 4: Form the Meatloaf**
– Once your meat mixture is combined, transfer it into your prepared baking pan or shape it into a loaf on the baking sheet. Try to ensure it’s evenly shaped for consistent cooking.
#### **Step 5: Add the Cheese (Optional)**
– If you’re stuffing the meatloaf with cheese, make a small indentation down the center of the loaf and fill it with shredded mozzarella or provolone. Then, cover the cheese with the surrounding meat mixture.
– Alternatively, you can sprinkle the cheese on top of the meatloaf, which will melt into a beautiful, golden crust.
#### **Step 6: Bake the Meatloaf**
– Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the size and thickness of the loaf. The meatloaf is done when the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
– About 10 minutes before the meatloaf is finished cooking, spread a generous amount of marinara sauce on top of the meatloaf. You can also add extra cheese at this point if you like it extra cheesy.
#### **Step 7: Let It Rest**
– Once the meatloaf is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute and makes it easier to slice.
#### **Step 8: Serve and Enjoy**
– Slice the meatloaf and serve it hot. It pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad. If you have leftovers, Italian meatloaf makes fantastic sandwiches the next day!
### Tips for Perfect Italian Meatloaf
– **Don’t Overmix**: When combining the meat mixture, avoid overmixing. This can result in a dense, tough meatloaf. Mix just until everything is incorporated.
– **Rest the Meatloaf**: After baking, let the meatloaf rest before cutting it. This helps it maintain its shape and ensures that it’s juicy and tender.
– **Use a Meat Thermometer**: To ensure your meatloaf is cooked through, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should be 160°F (71°C) when it’s done.
– **Customize the Filling**: Feel free to get creative with your meatloaf filling. Add some sautéed onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra flavor. You can also swap out the Parmesan for another hard cheese like Pecorino Romano for a different twist.
– **Leftovers**: Leftover meatloaf can be used in sandwiches, crumbled into pasta dishes, or even added to a salad for a protein boost. You can also freeze slices for a later meal.
### Conclusion: Why You’ll Love This Easy Italian Meatloaf
Italian meatloaf is a perfect dish for anyone looking for a comforting, flavorful meal that’s easy to make and great for feeding a crowd. This recipe combines the best of Italian flavors—garlic, fresh herbs, cheese, and marinara sauce—with the heartiness of classic meatloaf. The result is a dish that is savory, juicy, and satisfying, with a beautiful Italian twist.
Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or preparing it for a special gathering, this easy Italian meatloaf is sure to impress. With minimal effort and a few key ingredients, you can create a delicious meal that will have your family and friends coming back for more. So why not give this Italian-style meatloaf a try? It might just become a new favorite in your household.
