Classic Italian Meatloaf Recipe
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the satisfaction of a well-made meatloaf. This Italian Meatloaf recipe takes the classic dish and elevates it to a whole new level, infusing it with Italian flavors and using a combination of ground beef and pork to create a juicy, flavorful masterpiece. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply looking to indulge in some culinary delights, this Italian Meatloaf is sure to become a favorite in your household. Let’s dive into the step-by-step guide to crafting this delectable dish.
Ingredients You Need
Before we embark on this culinary adventure, let’s gather all the essential ingredients to make the Italian Meatloaf:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1.5lbs – 700g ground beef (20% fat)
- 10.5oz – 300g ground pork (15% fat)
- Salt and pepper
- ½ cup milk
- 3 large slices crustless brown bread
- 1 medium grated carrot
- 4oz – 120g button mushrooms (approx.4 large)
- 2 shallots
- 2 large cloves garlic crushed
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp fresh or dried rosemary
- 3oz – 90g grated pecorino cheese (1 cup)
- ½ cup chopped parsley
- 2 whole eggs (large)
- 7oz -200g pancetta strips around 34 pieces
- 10oz – 290g Mozzarella cheese
For the Sauce:
- Fresh basil leaves
- Marinara sauce
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that we have all the ingredients, let’s proceed with making this mouthwatering Italian Meatloaf:
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Mixture
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and ground pork.
- Season the meat mixture with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
- Pour in the milk and let the bread slices soak in it for a few minutes.
- Add the soaked bread, grated carrot, button mushrooms, shallots, crushed garlic, dried oregano, fresh or dried rosemary, grated pecorino cheese, and chopped parsley to the meat mixture.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
- Using clean hands, thoroughly mix all the ingredients until well combined.
- Beat the eggs in a separate bowl and then add them to the meat mixture, continuing to mix until everything is evenly distributed.
Step 3: Create the Meatloaf
- On a clean work surface, lay out a large sheet of parchment paper.
- Place the pancetta strips horizontally on the parchment paper, slightly overlapping each other, to create a bacon lattice.
- Spoon the meat mixture onto the bacon lattice and shape it into a rectangular loaf.
Step 4: Add the Mozzarella Filling
- Create a shallow indentation down the center of the meatloaf.
- Add the Mozzarella cheese into the indentation, making sure it’s evenly distributed along the length of the loaf.
Step 5: Seal the Meatloaf
- Gently fold the bacon lattice over the meatloaf, wrapping it securely.
- Transfer the wrapped meatloaf to a baking dish.
Step 6: Prepare the Sauce
- While the meatloaf is baking, finely chop some fresh basil leaves.
- Warm up your favorite marinara sauce in a saucepan.
- Stir in the chopped basil leaves and let the sauce simmer for a few minutes to infuse the flavors.
Step 7: Bake the Meatloaf
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Allow the meatloaf to rest for a few minutes before serving.
Italian Meatloaf Recipe – Your Family Will Love This Twist On A Classic
FAQs
- Can I use different types of cheese for the filling? Absolutely! While Mozzarella works wonderfully for a gooey, melty texture, you can experiment with other cheeses like provolone or cheddar for a unique twist.
- Can I make this meatloaf in advance and reheat it? Yes, you can make the meatloaf ahead of time and reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
- Can I substitute the pork with something else? If you prefer an all-beef meatloaf, you can skip the ground pork and use additional ground beef instead.
- What side dishes go well with Italian Meatloaf? This meatloaf pairs excellently with garlic mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh green salad.
- How do I store leftovers? Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months.
- Can I add additional herbs and spices to the meat mixture? Certainly! Feel free to get creative with herbs like thyme, sage, or basil to enhance the flavor profile.
Italian Meatloaf is a delightful twist on the classic comfort food, bringing the rich flavors of Italy to your dinner table. With a perfect blend of ground beef and pork, accompanied by a gooey Mozzarella filling, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. The step-by-step guide provided here will help you create a sumptuous Italian Meatloaf that will leave your taste buds singing with delight. So, gather your ingredients, follow the instructions, and enjoy a heartwarming meal that will bring smiles to your loved ones’ faces!