Savory Italian Meatloaf (Printer-Friendly)
A tender Italian-style meatloaf layered with marinara sauce and topped with melted mozzarella cheese.
# What You’ll Need:
→ Sauce
01 -
2 cups marinara sauce, divided
→ Meat Mixture
02 -
2 pounds 85% lean ground beef
03 -
3 slices Italian bread, torn into small pieces
04 -
1 cup whole milk
05 -
2 large eggs
06 -
4 cloves garlic, minced
07 -
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
08 -
1 teaspoon garlic powder
09 -
1 teaspoon onion powder
10 -
½ teaspoon salt
11 -
½ teaspoon black pepper
12 -
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
→ Topping
13 -
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
14 -
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
# Steps to Follow:
01 -
Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet or dish with parchment paper and spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly over the bottom. Set aside.
02 -
In a large bowl, gently mix ground beef, torn bread, milk, eggs, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and 1 cup shredded mozzarella until just combined to avoid overmixing.
03 -
Transfer mixture to the prepared baking sheet, forming it into a loaf shape to ensure even cooking.
04 -
Spread the remaining 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly over the top of the loaf before baking.
05 -
Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, checking frequently near the end of cooking.
06 -
Remove meatloaf from oven and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.
07 -
Switch oven to broil on high and broil for 1 to 2 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly. Watch carefully to prevent burning; alternatively, melt cheese in the oven at 400°F if broiling is a concern.
08 -
Let meatloaf rest for several minutes, then sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired. Slice and serve with additional marinara sauce as preferred.
# Helpful Hints:
01 -
Allow eggs to come to room temperature for easier mixing.
02 -
Torn bread retains moisture better than breadcrumbs, preventing dryness.
03 -
Use a meat thermometer to ensure meatloaf is cooked to 165°F for safety.