Italian Meatloaf Mozzarella

This Italian Meatloaf with Mozzarella is a savory and comforting main dish that brings the classic flavors of an Italian-American kitchen to your table. Featuring juicy ground beef layered with rich marinara and melted mozzarella, it's a hearty meal that is perfect for family dinners.

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The secret to this moist and tender meatloaf lies in the mixture of torn Italian bread and whole milk. By layering the loaf over a base of marinara sauce and topping it with even more sauce and cheese, you create a dish that is bursting with flavor in every bite.

Ingredients

• 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

Leftovers freeze well for up to 2 months, making this a great option for meal prep. If you don't have fresh parsley, dried parsley flakes may be used as a substitute for the garnish.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For smaller households or smaller portions, you can easily halve all of the ingredients to create a smaller meatloaf while maintaining the same delicious flavor profile.

Serviervorschläge

Garnish the finished meatloaf with freshly chopped parsley and slice it into thick portions. Serve with an extra side of warmed marinara sauce for dipping or drizzling.

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This Italian Meatloaf with Mozzarella is a crowd-pleasing dish that combines the nostalgia of a classic meatloaf with the irresistible flavors of cheesy Italian cuisine. Enjoy your meal!

Recipe FAQs

→ What kind of cheese is used in this dish?

Shredded mozzarella cheese is layered inside and melted on top for a creamy, bubbly finish.

→ How is the meatloaf cooked to ensure it stays juicy?

The meat mixture is baked over marinara sauce, then broiled with cheese to keep moisture in and develop a golden crust.

→ Can I substitute Italian bread in the ingredients?

Italian bread adds texture and moisture; similar crusty breads can be used, but avoid very dense or sweet breads.

→ What herbs and spices enhance the flavor?

Italian seasoning along with garlic and onion powders impart classic Italian flavors throughout the dish.

→ Is it necessary to broil the cheese on top?

Broiling creates a golden, bubbly cheese crust that adds texture and richness, but can be skipped if preferred.

→ How long should the meatloaf rest before slicing?

Allow it to rest a few minutes after baking to help retain juices and make slicing easier.