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Italian-style meatloaf

Easy Italian Meatloaf: 7 Secrets for a Perfectly Juicy Dish


  • Author: hafsahafsa
  • Total Time: 65–75 minutes
  • Yield: 68 servings 1x

Description

A juicy, flavorful Italian meatloaf made with ground beef, Italian sausage, Parmesan, herbs, and a tangy tomato glaze. Perfect for family dinners.


Ingredients

Scale

2 lbs (900 g) ground beef (85% lean)

½ lb (225 g) Italian sausage, casings removed

1 cup (90 g) fresh breadcrumbs or panko

½ cup (120 ml) whole milk

2 large eggs, room temperature

½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 small onion, finely chopped

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Tomato Glaze:

1 cup (240 ml) tomato sauce

2 tablespoons ketchup

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1 tablespoon brown sugar or honey

1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar


Instructions

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

Soak breadcrumbs in milk for 5 minutes to add moisture.

In a large bowl, gently mix ground beef, Italian sausage, soaked breadcrumbs, eggs, Parmesan, garlic, onion, salt, pepper, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes.

Shape mixture into a loaf, about 9 inches long and 4 inches wide. Place on prepared baking sheet or loaf pan.

Whisk together tomato sauce, ketchup, Italian seasoning, brown sugar, and balsamic vinegar. Spread half over meatloaf; reserve the rest for later.

Bake uncovered for 50–60 minutes, basting with remaining glaze 20 minutes before done. Meatloaf should reach 160°F (71°C).

Let rest 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

Avoid overmixing the meat to keep the loaf tender.

Resting ensures juices redistribute for moist slices.

Use fresh cheese for better melting.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50–60 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 420 kcal
  • Sugar: 5 g
  • Sodium: 680 mg
  • Fat: 25 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 20 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 32 g
  • Cholesterol: 140 mg

Keywords: Italian meatloaf, easy meatloaf, juicy meatloaf, family dinner, baked meatloaf