Ingredients for Authentic Italian Meatloaf
- 1.5 lbs ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
- 1 red bell pepper (finely chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- Eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Worcestershire Sauce
- Balsamic Vinegar
- Fresh Basil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce
How to Make Authentic Italian Meatloaf
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 red bell pepper (finely chopped), 1 medium onion (finely chopped), and 2 cloves garlic (minced).
- Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside to cool.
- In a large bowl, combine 1.5 lbs ground beef, 0.5 lbs ground pork, 1 cup breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 large egg, 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried basil, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
- Gently mix in the cooled sautéed vegetables.
- Avoid overmixing the meatloaf mixture.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a loaf pan (approximately 9x5 inches).
- Pour 1 1/2 cups of your favorite marinara sauce over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor
Chef's secret: layers of flavor make a dish truly memorable! Consider what a little extra something could bring – perhaps a touch of acidity like a good vinegar or citrus zest, a hint of smokiness from paprika, a bit of umami from mushrooms or soy sauce, or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for texture. Experiment and taste as you go!
Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)
Sodium
43 g
Sugar
26g
Fat
43g
Carbs
6g