Italian Meatloaf: A Savory Twist on a Classic Comfort Food

Italian meatloaf, or polpettone, takes the traditional American meatloaf and elevates it with Mediterranean flavors. Bursting with herbs, cheese, and savory ingredients, this dish brings warmth to the dinner table and a taste of Italy to every bite. Unlike standard meatloaf, Italian meatloaf often includes a mix of cheeses, breadcrumbs soaked in milk, and sometimes even a tomato-based glaze, giving it a moist, flavorful texture and a golden, caramelized finish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this recipe, gather the following ingredients:

Meatloaf:

• 1 pound ground beef

• 1/2 pound ground pork

• 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs

• 1/2 cup whole milk

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1 large egg

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Optional Glaze:

• 1/2 cup tomato sauce or marinara

• 2 tablespoons ketchup

• 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar

• 1/2 teaspoon sugar

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.

2. Prepare the Breadcrumb Mixture

In a small bowl, soak the breadcrumbs in milk for about 5 minutes until softened. This step ensures a moist and tender meatloaf.

3. Mix the Meat and Flavorings

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and pork. Add the soaked breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, Parmesan, mozzarella, egg, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spatula to gently mix until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. Avoid overmixing, which can make the meatloaf dense.

4. Shape the Meatloaf

Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking sheet or loaf pan. Shape it into a loaf approximately 9 inches long. If you’re using a glaze, reserve it for later.

5. Apply the Glaze (Optional)

Spread the tomato-based glaze evenly over the top of the loaf. This will add extra flavor and create a beautiful caramelized finish as it bakes.

6. Bake Until Perfect

Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). If you’re using a glaze, baste the loaf halfway through cooking for maximum flavor.

7. Rest Before Slicing

Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping each slice tender and juicy.

8. Serve and Enjoy

Italian meatloaf pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad. For an extra Italian touch, drizzle some extra marinara sauce over each slice.

Tips for a Flavorful Italian Meatloaf

• Cheese Choices: Experiment with provolone, fontina, or pecorino for different flavors.

• Herbs: Fresh basil or thyme can add a fragrant, authentic taste.

• Moisture Matters: Don’t skip soaking the breadcrumbs—they keep the meatloaf from drying out.

Italian meatloaf is comfort food with a Mediterranean twist—a perfect balance of hearty, cheesy, and herbaceous flavors. With this recipe, you can bring a taste of Italy straight into your kitchen and enjoy a meal that’s sure to impress friends and family alike.

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