Best Ever Italian-Style Meatloaf Recipe ๐ฝ๏ธ
Overview:
This Best Ever Italian-Style Meatloaf is a go-to recipe that guarantees juicy, flavorful meatloaf every time. The addition of cheese and herbs elevates the taste to a whole new level. Perfect for a hearty lunch or snack, this meatloaf is loved by both kids and adults alike. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Serving: Makes 1 loaf
Ingredients:
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 egg
- 2/3 cup tomato sauce
- 3/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp dried parsley
- 3/4 cup low-fat mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
-
Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC). This ensures that your oven is ready when the meatloaf is prepared.โLink To Shareโ is your all-in-one marketing platform, making it easy and professional to direct your audience to everything you offer. โข Modern, customizable bio pages โข Link shortening with advanced analytics โข Interactive, brandable QR codes โข Host static sites and manage your code โข Multiple web tools to grow your business -
Mix Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the lean ground beef, egg, tomato sauce, salt, onion powder, dried oregano, dried basil, dried parsley, and low-fat mozzarella cheese. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. -
Shape the Meatloaf:
Press the mixture into a 9×5 inch loaf pan, ensuring it is evenly distributed and packed tightly. This helps the meatloaf hold its shape while baking. -
Bake Covered:
Cover the loaf pan with foil to trap moisture and prevent the meatloaf from drying out. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour. -
Drain Extra Sauce:
After 1 hour of baking, remove the meatloaf from the oven and carefully uncover it. Pour out any excess sauce that may have accumulated in the pan. -
Final Bake:
Return the uncovered meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes. This step helps to develop a delicious crust on the outside of the meatloaf. -
Rest and Serve:
Once fully baked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest in the pan for 10-20 minutes. Allowing it to rest helps to set the meatloaf and prevents it from falling apart when sliced.
Serving Suggestions:
- Slice the meatloaf and serve it hot alongside your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables.
- For a quick and easy meal, freeze sliced portions of the meatloaf in a container. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for a convenient dinner option.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 305.5
- Fat: 13.7g
- Saturated Fat: 5.2g
- Cholesterol: 126.6mg
- Sodium: 756mg
- Carbohydrates: 16.8g
- Fiber: 1.6g
- Sugar: 3.3g
- Protein: 27.3g
Keywords:
Meat, Kid Friendly, Weeknight, Beginner Cook, < 4 Hours, Easy
Recipe Notes:
- Customize the recipe by adding your favorite Italian herbs or spices for additional flavor.
- Substitute the low-fat mozzarella cheese with your preferred cheese variety, such as cheddar or Parmesan.
- Make sure to drain any excess grease from the cooked meatloaf before serving for a lighter dish.