Polpettone alla Ligure – A Delicious Italian Meatloaf Recipe
If you’re craving an Italian dish that’s packed with flavor and easy to prepare, Polpettone alla Ligure (Ligurian-style meatloaf) is the perfect choice for your next family meal. Originating from the beautiful region of Liguria in Italy, this meatloaf features a unique blend of vegetables, cheese, and herbs that create a soft, flavorful texture. Traditionally, it’s made with potatoes, green beans, and Parmesan, offering a light yet filling one-dish meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Here’s how you can make this delicious dish at home!
Ingredients for Polpettone alla Ligure
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Potatoes | 2 kg |
| Green beans (fagiolini) | 600 g |
| Parmigiano Reggiano DOP | 100 g |
| Eggs | 4 |
| Marjoram (fresh or dried) | 2 sprigs |
| Black pepper (to taste) | q.b. (as needed) |
| Salt (fine salt) | q.b. (as needed) |
| Bread crumbs (pangrattato) | 50 g |
| Butter | q.b. (for greasing) |
| Additional bread crumbs | 50 g |
| Additional Parmigiano Reggiano DOP | 50 g |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Boil the Potatoes
Start by washing the potatoes thoroughly and placing them in a large pot of cold water. Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes for about 40 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork. Make sure the potatoes do not fall apart during cooking. Once done, remove them from the water and let them cool down for a few minutes.
Step 2: Cook the Green Beans
While the potatoes are boiling, take the green beans and place them in a separate pot of cold water. Bring the water to a boil and cook the beans for approximately 25 minutes, or until they are tender. Just like the potatoes, the green beans should be cooked until soft but not falling apart. Once done, drain them well.
Step 3: Mash the Potatoes
Once the potatoes have cooled enough to handle, peel them and pass them through a potato ricer or mash them using a fork or potato masher until you achieve a smooth, creamy texture. Place the mashed potatoes into a large mixing bowl.
Step 4: Combine the Ingredients
Now that both the potatoes and green beans are ready, add the cooked green beans into the bowl with the mashed potatoes. Using a fork or spoon, gently combine them. Then, stir in the grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, adding a rich depth of flavor to the mixture.
Step 5: Add Seasonings
For a delightful aroma and extra flavor, add the fresh marjoram leaves to the mixture. You can use dried marjoram if fresh is unavailable. Season the mixture with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Step 6: Prepare the Baking Dish
Next, take a rectangular baking dish (about 30×23 cm in size) and butter it generously. This will help ensure the polpettone doesn’t stick during baking and will add a lovely golden crispness to the edges.
Step 7: Assemble the Polpettone
Transfer the mashed potato and green bean mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly with a spoon or spatula, ensuring the surface is level. For a traditional look, you can use the tines of a fork to create decorative striations on the surface by dragging the fork vertically across the mixture.
Step 8: Prepare the Topping
In a small bowl, combine the remaining grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese with the bread crumbs. Mix well, then sprinkle this mixture over the top of the polpettone. This will create a crispy, golden crust that contrasts perfectly with the creamy interior.
Step 9: Bake the Polpettone
Now that your polpettone is ready for the oven, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake the dish for about 30 minutes, or until the top is golden and crisp, and the edges begin to turn a beautiful shade of brown.
Step 10: Serve and Enjoy
Once the polpettone is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This allows the flavors to settle and makes it easier to slice. Serve your delicious Polpettone alla Ligure warm or at room temperature, accompanied by a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250-300 kcal |
| Protein | 9 g |
| Carbohydrates | 30 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
| Saturated Fat | 7 g |
| Cholesterol | 150 mg |
| Sodium | 300 mg |
| Calcium | 150 mg |
Cooking Tips:
- Make It Vegan: To make this dish vegan-friendly, substitute the eggs with a flax or chia seed mixture (1 tablespoon of ground flax or chia seeds with 3 tablespoons of water) and use dairy-free cheese.
- Add More Vegetables: If you want to add more veggies to your polpettone, consider incorporating zucchini or spinach for a variation in flavor and texture.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the polpettone for up to 1 month. Simply reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to serve.
This Polpettone alla Ligure is a wonderful dish to prepare for family gatherings, festive dinners, or whenever you’re in the mood for a hearty yet fresh Italian-inspired meal. It’s a simple yet flavorful recipe that showcases the best of Ligurian cuisine, combining the earthy flavors of potatoes, the freshness of green beans, and the rich depth of Parmesan cheese. Enjoy!
For more delightful Italian recipes like this one, explore Love With Recipes and bring a touch of Italy to your kitchen today!
