Save to Pinterest Experience the ultimate comfort food with this Italian Meatloaf with Mozzarella. This dish combines the heartiness of a classic beef meatloaf with the vibrant flavors of an Italian kitchen, featuring a rich marinara base and a generous topping of melted cheese. It is a savory, juicy main course that is sure to become a staple for your family dinners.
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The secret to the success of this meatloaf is the combination of ground beef and shredded mozzarella within the loaf itself, ensuring cheesiness in every single bite. By baking the loaf on a bed of marinara sauce, the bottom stays tender while absorbing the savory tomato essence.
Ingredients
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- Meatloaf
- 2 pounds (900 g) ground beef (85% lean)
- 3 slices Italian bread, torn into small pieces
- 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk
- 2 eggs
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup (115 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- Assembly & Topping
- 2 cups (480 ml) marinara sauce, divided
- 1 cup (115 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Step 2
- Line a baking sheet or baking dish with parchment paper. Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly over the bottom.
- Step 3
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, torn Italian bread, milk, eggs, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella. Mix gently until just combined.
- Step 4
- Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it onto the prepared baking sheet or dish over the marinara sauce.
- Step 5
- Spread the remaining 1 cup marinara sauce evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
- Step 6
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Step 7
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup mozzarella cheese on top of the meatloaf.
- Step 8
- Set the oven to broil on high. Broil for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly. Monitor closely to prevent burning.
- Step 9
- Let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley, slice, and serve with extra marinara sauce if desired.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To maintain the best texture, avoid overworking the meat when mixing the ingredients. It is also important to let the meatloaf rest for several minutes after baking; this helps the juices redistribute so the slices stay intact and flavorful.
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Varianten und Anpassungen
For smaller households, you can easily halve all the ingredients to create a smaller loaf. If you don't have fresh parsley available, dried parsley flakes work perfectly as a substitute for the final garnish.
Serviervorschläge
Serve thick slices of this meatloaf alongside creamy mashed potatoes or a side of pasta to complement the marinara sauce. Leftovers are excellent for sandwiches the next day or can be frozen for a quick meal later on.
Save to Pinterest This Italian Meatloaf with Mozzarella is a satisfying and easy-to-make dinner that brings a touch of Italian flair to a classic family favorite. With its tender texture and bubbly cheese topping, it is sure to be requested time and time again.
Questions & Answers About This Recipe
- → How should I prepare the meat mixture?
Combine ground beef, torn Italian bread soaked in milk, eggs, garlic, Italian seasoning, and shredded mozzarella. Mix gently until just combined to maintain tenderness.
- → Why add marinara sauce before and after baking?
Layering marinara sauce under and over the meat enhances moisture and infuses rich tomato flavor throughout the dish.
- → What is the best way to achieve a golden mozzarella topping?
After baking, broil the meatloaf for 10-12 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning, until the cheese bubbles and turns golden.
- → Can I substitute the Italian bread?
Yes, you may use other bread types, but Italian bread adds traditional flavor and texture that complements the meat mixture.
- → How can leftovers be stored?
Wrap leftovers tightly and freeze for up to two months. Thaw completely before reheating to retain flavor and texture.
