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

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and ground pork.
3. Season the meat mixture with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
4. Pour in the milk and let the bread slices soak in it for a few minutes.
5. 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

1. Using clean hands, thoroughly mix all the ingredients until well combined.
2. 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

1. On a clean work surface, lay out a large sheet of parchment paper.
2. Place the pancetta strips horizontally on the parchment paper, slightly overlapping each other, to create a bacon lattice.
3. Spoon the meat mixture onto the bacon lattice and shape it into a rectangular loaf.

Step 4: Add the Mozzarella Filling

1. Create a shallow indentation down the center of the meatloaf.
2. Add the Mozzarella cheese into the indentation, making sure it’s evenly distributed along the length of the loaf.

Step 5: Seal the Meatloaf

1. Gently fold the bacon lattice over the meatloaf, wrapping it securely.
2. Transfer the wrapped meatloaf to a baking dish.

Step 6: Prepare the Sauce

1. While the meatloaf is baking, finely chop some fresh basil leaves.
2. Warm up your favorite marinara sauce in a saucepan.
3. Stir in the chopped basil leaves and let the sauce simmer for a few minutes to infuse the flavors.

Step 7: Bake the Meatloaf

1. 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).
2. 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!