Classic Meatloaf Recipe

Meatloaf is a comfort food that brings warmth to any meal. Whether it’s a family dinner, a special occasion, or simply a satisfying dish after a long day, this recipe combines savory ground beef, aromatic Italian sausage, and a tangy marinara topping, making it an irresistible option for any dinner table. The addition of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses gives it an extra layer of richness and flavor, while fresh herbs like basil and parsley provide a burst of freshness. This classic meatloaf is not only simple to make but also a crowd-pleaser that will surely become a favorite in your kitchen.

Preparation Time:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Resting Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Ingredients 

For the Meatloaf Mixture:

• 1 ½ lbs ground beef (80/20 for the best flavor)
• ½ lb ground Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
• 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs (adds texture & flavor)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (adds richness & umami)
• ½ cup whole milk (keeps the meatloaf tender)
• 2 large eggs, beaten (helps bind everything together)
• 1 small onion, finely diced (for flavor & moisture)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced (adds classic Italian aroma)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Topping:

• 1 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• In a large bowl, combine the ground beef and Italian sausage. This combination creates a flavorful and juicy base for your meatloaf.
• Add the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, milk, eggs, finely diced onion, and minced garlic. These ingredients help provide flavor, moisture, and texture to your meatloaf.
• Season the mixture with oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if desired), salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf dense.

2. Shape the Meatloaf:

• Transfer the meat mixture into a loaf pan (9×5 inches) or shape it into a loaf and place it on a lined baking sheet. Make sure it’s shaped evenly so it cooks uniformly.
• Smooth the top of the meatloaf with a spatula for a neat finish.

3. Bake the Meatloaf:

• Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. The meatloaf should be browned on the outside, and a meat thermometer inserted into the center should read 160°F (71°C).
• While the meatloaf is baking, prepare the topping.

4. Prepare the Topping:

• In a small bowl, combine the marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese. This simple yet delicious topping will melt beautifully over the meatloaf, adding a rich, cheesy layer.

5. Add the Topping:

• After the meatloaf has baked for about 45-50 minutes, remove it from the oven. Spoon the marinara sauce and mozzarella mixture evenly over the top.
• Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Rest the Meatloaf:

• Once the meatloaf is fully cooked and topped with cheese, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute and makes slicing easier.

7. Garnish and Serve:

• Garnish the meatloaf with freshly chopped basil or parsley. This step adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
• Slice and serve hot, accompanied by your favorite side dishes like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.

Tips:

• For an extra cheesy topping, add more mozzarella or even a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top of the marinara before baking.
• Make ahead: You can prepare the meatloaf mixture in advance and refrigerate it overnight, which allows the flavors to meld together even more.
• To make it healthier, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef and sausage, though the flavor may be lighter.

This Classic Meatloaf with Marinara Topping is the perfect combination of comfort and flavor. The tender, juicy meatloaf is packed with Italian-inspired flavors, while the marinara and melted mozzarella topping takes it to the next level. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or preparing for a weekend family gathering, this meatloaf is sure to satisfy everyone’s cravings. The ingredients are simple, and the preparation steps are straightforward, making it an accessible dish for cooks of all skill levels. Give this recipe a try, and watch it become a staple in your recipe rotation.