Name: Italian Meatloaf Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs; ¾ cup Parmesan cheese (grated); 1 small onion (finely chopped); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 2 large eggs; ½ cup milk; 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper (to taste); 1 cup marinara sauce; ½ cup mozzarella cheese (shredded); 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 81 reviews

If you adore hearty, comforting meals with a burst of Mediterranean flavor, this Italian Meatloaf Recipe is an absolute must-try. Combining tender ground beef with Italian breadcrumbs, fragrant herbs, and a rich marinara sauce, it elevates the classic meatloaf into a dish bursting with vibrant tastes and textures that will warm your heart and satisfy your soul. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe will quickly become a cherished favorite that’s as delicious on weeknights as it is on special occasions.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white plate holds a meal with three main parts: a large slice of rolled meatloaf placed in the center, showing layers of brown meat mixed with green herbs and slices of light pink meat inside, surrounded by a chunky red tomato sauce with bits of tomato and herbs scattered on top and around; to the left of the meatloaf, there is a nest of light green spiralized zucchini noodles with a few green herbs sprinkled over them; the plate sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Italian Meatloaf Recipe lies in its simple yet thoughtfully selected ingredients. Each component plays a vital role, whether it’s adding moisture, flavor, or that irresistible cheesy finish. Here’s everything you’ll want to gather to make your meatloaf shine.

1 pound ground beef: Provides the meaty base with a perfect balance of flavor and juiciness.
1 cup Italian breadcrumbs: Adds structure and soaks up the flavorful moisture to keep the loaf tender.
¾ cup Parmesan cheese (grated): Brings a sharp, nutty taste that deepens the overall flavor.
1 small onion (finely chopped): Offers a touch of sweetness and aromatic complexity.
2 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the meatloaf with that unmistakable Italian savory punch.
2 large eggs: Acts as a binder to hold all the ingredients together beautifully.
½ cup milk: Adds moisture and ensures the texture stays soft and inviting.
1 cup marinara sauce: Provides a luscious, tangy layer that keeps the meatloaf moist throughout baking.
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning: Blends herbs like oregano and basil for authentic flavor.
Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
½ cup mozzarella cheese (shredded): Melts on top to add gooey, melty goodness.
1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped): Adds freshness and a pop of color when garnished.

How to Make Italian Meatloaf Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Mixture

Start by combining the ground beef, Italian breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, eggs, milk, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl. Use your hands to gently but thoroughly mix everything together. This not only ensures the seasonings are evenly distributed but also develops a tender texture that will hold together well when baked.

Step 2: Shape the Meatloaf

Transfer the mixture onto a baking sheet or into a loaf pan and shape it into a classic loaf form. Give it a firm but gentle press to make sure there are no air pockets. This will help your meatloaf cook evenly and keep its shape when sliced.

Step 3: Top with Marinara and Cheese

Spread the marinara sauce generously over the top of the loaf, allowing the sauce to seep into the edges slightly. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce, which will melt into a bubbly, golden top that’s simply irresistible.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Place the meatloaf in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 55–60 minutes. The internal temperature should reach 160°F when done. The marinara and mozzarella will meld into a delicious crust, while the inside remains juicy and flavorful.

How to Serve Italian Meatloaf Recipe

A rectangular layer of raw ground meat mixed with small red and green bits, laid flat on parchment paper over a white marbled surface, serves as the first layer. On top, a layer of fresh green spinach leaves is spread evenly. Over the spinach, there is a generous layer of finely shredded white cheese scattered to cover the leafy layer fully. The top right edge of the meat layer is being rolled inward, forming a tight roll that shows the texture of the ground meat on the outside. The scene is lit softly, showing the textures clearly. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Finish your meatloaf with a sprinkling of fresh chopped parsley to add just a hint of brightness and a lovely pop of green that contrasts with the rich colors of the dish. A few extra shavings of Parmesan on top also work beautifully for those who love a little extra cheesy flair.

Side Dishes

This Italian Meatloaf Recipe pairs wonderfully with classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes, garlic-roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette. Each side balances the hearty meatloaf perfectly, making the meal feel comforting yet fresh.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try slicing the meatloaf and serving it on toasted Italian bread for an open-faced sandwich topped with extra marinara and mozzarella. Alternatively, you could cube leftover meatloaf and toss it into pasta or a warm grain bowl for a quick, flavorful lunch the next day.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once your meatloaf has cooled, wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or place it in an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it will keep well for up to 4 days, making it perfect for feeding the family throughout the week.

Freezing

If you want to make this Italian Meatloaf Recipe ahead of time, you can freeze the uncooked loaf or the fully cooked leftovers. Wrap securely in plastic wrap followed by foil or place in a freezer-safe container to prevent freezer burn. Frozen meatloaf is best used within 3 months for optimal flavor and texture.

Reheating

Reheat slices gently in the microwave or oven, covering the edges with foil to avoid drying out. You can also reheat the entire meatloaf wrapped in foil at 325°F until warmed through. Adding a spoonful of marinara sauce while reheating helps maintain moisture and freshness.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey can be substituted for a leaner option. Just keep in mind it may need a bit more moisture, so you might want to increase the milk slightly or add a little extra marinara sauce.

What can I use if I don’t have Italian breadcrumbs?

You can make your own by crushing plain breadcrumbs and mixing them with dried Italian herbs or simply use regular breadcrumbs and add more Italian seasoning to the mixture for that authentic flavor.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, by swapping out Italian breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers, you can keep this Italian Meatloaf Recipe safe for those avoiding gluten without compromising taste.

How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked?

The safest way is to use an instant-read thermometer inserted in the center; it should read 160°F. The juices should run clear, and the loaf should feel firm but not dry.

Can I prepare the meatloaf mixture the night before?

Definitely! In fact, letting the mixture rest overnight in the refrigerator can help the flavors meld beautifully. Just cover tightly and shape and bake it the next day for the best results.

Final Thoughts

This Italian Meatloaf Recipe is one of those magical dishes that’s simple to make but delivers so much comfort and flavor in every bite. I hope you give it a try soon and enjoy the warm, homestyle flavors that make it such a treasure on any dinner table. Once you do, you’ll understand why it’s a true crowd-pleaser and a weeknight hero all in one.

Italian Meatloaf Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need