Baked Italian Meatloaf with Marinara and Mozzarella

• 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
• 1/2 pound ground pork
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1/4 cup milk
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Steps

1. 1 Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. 2 In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, eggs, milk, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix gently.
3. 3 Shape the mixture into a loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. 4 Bake for 30 minutes.
5. 5 Spread marinara sauce over the meatloaf and sprinkle with mozzarella.
6. 6 Continue baking until the cheese is bubbly and the meatloaf is cooked through, about 25-30 more minutes.
7. 7 Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls

Variations

• Add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers to the meat mixture for extra flavor.
• Substitute ground turkey for a leaner option.

Substitutions

• If you don't have Italian seasoning, use a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme.
• Replace mozzarella with provolone for a different flavor profile.

Pairings

• Red wine like Chianti or a Pinot Noir complements the flavors.
• Sparkling water with a lemon wedge for a refreshing drink.

Nutrition

Tips

• For extra flavor, sauté the garlic before adding it to the meat mixture.
• Allow the meatloaf to rest to ensure it holds together when sliced.

Storage

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Freezing: Freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating in a 350°F oven.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with garlic bread and a side Caesar salad.
• Pairs well with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.

FAQ