Italian Meatloaf

Name: Italian Meatloaf
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef (80/20); 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs; ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 2 large eggs; ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; ¾ cup ketchup (divided); 1 cup canned tomato sauce; 2 tsp dried basil

Published: January 28, 2026

by Sarah Conley

Why You'll Love This Italian Meatloaf

This incredible Italian Meatloaf transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Italian Meatloaf:

Ground Beef: Use a mix of lean ground beef for flavor without excessive grease; about 80/20 works best.
Italian Breadcrumbs: These help absorb moisture while adding flavor and texture; choose seasoned ones for an extra kick.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a nutty flavor that complements the meat wonderfully.
Eggs: Two eggs bind all the ingredients together perfectly and provide moisture.
Fresh Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley brings brightness and color to the loaf; dried works in a pinch too.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic elevates this dish with its aromatic charm; it’s essential for that authentic Italian flavor.
Ketchup: A classic topping that adds sweetness and moisture; use it generously!

For the Sauce:

Canned Tomato Sauce: Choose a quality brand for rich flavor; it forms the base of your delicious glaze.
Basil Leaves: Fresh or dried basil will give your sauce that herbaceous note everyone loves.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Italian Meatloaf:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper; either works!

Step 2: Mix Your Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, Italian breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, eggs, chopped parsley, minced garlic, and half of the ketchup. Mix gently but thoroughly—no one likes an overworked meatloaf!

Step 3: Shape Your Loaf

Transfer the mixture onto your prepared baking sheet or into the loaf pan. Shape it into a lovely loaf—think of it as giving your meat its very own spa day!

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together canned tomato sauce with remaining ketchup and basil leaves. Pour this delightful concoction over your meatloaf.

Step 5: Bake Away

Pop that beauty into your preheated oven and bake for about an hour until fully cooked (internal temperature should be at least 160°F or about 70°C). Your kitchen will start smelling like heaven!

Step 6: Serve With Love

Once baked to perfection, take it out and let it rest for about ten minutes. Slice up those portions and serve with extra sauce drizzled on top—it’s like giving each slice a warm hug!

Now you’ve got yourself an Italian Meatloaf worthy of any family gathering or cozy dinner party! Enjoy every bite as you create new memories around your table—just like I did years ago!

You Must Know About Italian Meatloaf

This showstopping Italian Meatloaf delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Sear the meatloaf in a skillet to develop flavor, then transfer it to the oven. While it bakes, prepare your sides so everything is ready at the same time.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to customize your Italian Meatloaf by adding ingredients like chopped bell peppers, grated cheese, or even a splash of balsamic vinegar. Experimenting with fresh herbs can elevate the flavor profile further!

Storing & Reheating

To store leftover Italian Meatloaf, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to three days. To reheat, place slices in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to keep them moist.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Italian Meatloaf

This professional-quality Italian Meatloaf relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

One time I made this Italian Meatloaf for a family gathering, and my uncle couldn’t stop raving about it! He even asked me if I could cook it every Sunday—a compliment that made me feel like a rockstar chef!

FAQs

What is Italian Meatloaf?

Italian Meatloaf is a flavorful twist on the classic meatloaf, infused with Italian herbs, spices, and often combined with ingredients like breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and marinara sauce. This dish showcases the rich flavors of Italian cuisine while retaining the comforting essence of traditional meatloaf. It typically features ground meats such as beef and pork, mixed with savory vegetables like onions and garlic. The result is a moist, hearty dish that can be served with pasta or as a standalone meal.

How do I cook Italian Meatloaf?

To cook Italian Meatloaf, start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, mix ground meats with breadcrumbs, minced garlic, chopped parsley, grated Parmesan, eggs, and seasonings. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish. Brush the top with marinara sauce for added flavor. Bake for 60-75 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). Let it rest before slicing to ensure it stays juicy.

Can I make Italian Meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Italian Meatloaf ahead of time! Mix all ingredients and shape the loaf. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, you can bake it fully and store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat individual slices in the microwave or oven for a quick meal anytime.

What are some side dishes for Italian Meatloaf?

Italian Meatloaf pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Consider serving it alongside creamy mashed potatoes or garlic bread to soak up any flavorful juices. A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can add brightness to your meal. For a more traditional approach, serve it with spaghetti and marinara sauce to create an Italian-inspired feast that everyone will love.

Conclusion

In summary, Italian Meatloaf is a delicious variation on the classic dish that brings together rich flavors from Italy. Its combination of ground meats, seasonings, and marinara makes it a favorite for family dinners. You can easily prepare this dish ahead of time or pair it with various sides to enhance your dining experience. Enjoy this comforting meal any night of the week!

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