๐ฎ๐น Italian Garlicky Meatloaf ๐ฝ๏ธ๐ฎ๐น
Italian Garlicky Meatloaf, also known as “Polpettone,” is a delicious and comforting dish that combines ground meat, garlic, and other flavorful ingredients to create a mouthwatering meal. This dish is a classic in Italian cuisine, known for its rich, savory flavors. Here’s a detailed look at what it is, its history, components, preparation steps, and approximate preparation time.
๐ History:
Italian meatloaf has been a part of Italian culinary tradition for many years. It’s a dish that has evolved over time and been passed down through generations. While it doesn’t have a single, well-documented origin, it’s a dish that varies in preparation from region to region in Italy. Garlic is a staple in Italian cooking, and it’s often used to enhance the flavors of various dishes, including meatloaf.
๐ฅ Components:
Ingredients for Italian Garlicky Meatloaf typically include:
- 1 pound ground beef or a mixture of ground beef and pork
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced (the garlicky part!)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
- Marinara sauce for topping
๐ฉโ๐ณ Preparation Steps:
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, chopped parsley, milk, and egg. Season with salt and pepper.
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Mix the ingredients together until well combined. You can use your hands for this, but make sure not to overwork the mixture, as it can make the meatloaf tough.
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Shape the mixture into a loaf shape on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or in a greased loaf pan.
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Drizzle olive oil over the top of the meatloaf, which will help it brown nicely in the oven.
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Bake in a preheated oven at 375ยฐF (190ยฐC) for approximately 45-60 minutes or until the meatloaf is cooked through and has a golden-brown crust.
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About 10 minutes before it’s done, you can spread some marinara sauce over the top for extra flavor.
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Once it’s cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
๐ Preparation Time:
The total preparation time for Italian Garlicky Meatloaf can vary, but it typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours from start to finish, including preparation and baking time.
This Italian meatloaf is a wonderful comfort food that’s perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner. Enjoy the robust flavors and the hint of garlic in every bite! ๐ฎ๐น๐ฝ๏ธ๐
Certainly, here are the approximate nutrition facts and some health information for Italian Garlicky Meatloaf:
๐ Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, based on 4 servings):
- Calories: Around 350-400 kcal
- Protein: 20-25 grams
- Carbohydrates: 15-20 grams
- Fat: 20-25 grams
- Saturated Fat: 7-10 grams
- Fiber: 1-2 grams
- Sugars: 2-3 grams
- Sodium: 500-600 mg
- Cholesterol: 100-120 mg
Please note that these values can vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used in your recipe. Ground meat choice and the amount of Parmesan cheese, for example, can influence the final nutritional content.
๐ฅฆ Health Information:
- Protein: Meatloaf is a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.
- Fats: Ground meat typically contains saturated fat, so it’s essential to use lean ground meat or a mixture of lean and fatty meat for a healthier option.
- Carbohydrates: The breadcrumbs used in the meatloaf add carbohydrates, but the overall carb content is relatively low.
- Fiber: There is minimal fiber in this dish. You can increase the fiber content by serving it with a side of vegetables or a salad.
- Sodium: The sodium content can be relatively high, especially if you use commercial marinara sauce. Choosing a low-sodium sauce can help reduce this.
To make this dish healthier, consider using lean ground meat, whole-grain breadcrumbs, and a tomato sauce with no added salt. Serving it with a side of vegetables or a salad can also increase the overall nutritional value of your meal.
As with any recipe, portion control and overall diet are crucial factors in maintaining a healthy eating plan. Enjoy Italian Garlicky Meatloaf in moderation as part of a balanced diet. ๐ฅฆ๐ฝ๏ธ๐
