Name: Italian Meatloaf Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-489302H2M
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound lean ground beef; ⅓ cup bread crumbs; ¼ cup freshly grated vegetarian Parmesan-style cheese (or plant-based Parmesan alternative); 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 1¼ teaspoons Italian seasoning; ½ teaspoon onion powder; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; 2 tablespoons fresh chopped basil (or 1 teaspoon dried basil); 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped; 1 whole large egg, slightly beaten; 1 cup pasta sauce

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Introduction

Italian meatloaf is a flavorful twist on a classic comfort food, combining aromatic herbs and savory Parmesan for a rich, satisfying meal. Perfect for a family dinner, this recipe is simple to prepare and sure to become a favorite.

A thick meatloaf sits on a white oval plate placed on a white marbled surface. The meatloaf has three visible layers: the top layer is coated with a textured, glossy red tomato sauce sprinkled with chopped green herbs and bits of melted cheese, covering the entire loaf. Below this, the two cut slices reveal a dense, brown, crumbly meat interior mixed with small green herb pieces evenly spread throughout. The overall shape is rectangular with rounded edges, and the loaf sits centered on the plate. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 pound lean ground beef
⅓ cup bread crumbs
¼ cup freshly grated vegetarian Parmesan-style cheese (or a plant-based Parmesan alternative)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1¼ teaspoons Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon garlic powder
2 tablespoons fresh chopped basil (or 1 teaspoon dried basil)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
1 whole large egg, slightly beaten
1 cup pasta sauce

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Gather and prepare all ingredients to make the cooking process easier.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, basil, parsley, half of the pasta sauce, and the beaten egg. Mix gently with your hands to combine evenly without overworking the meat.
Step 3: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. With slightly dampened hands, shape the meat mixture into a loaf about 1 inch thick and place it on the sheet.
Step 4: Bake the loaf for 35 to 40 minutes. Remove from the oven and spread the remaining pasta sauce evenly over the top. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese over the sauce.
Step 5: Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden. Let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing to help it hold its shape.

Tips & Variations

Try adding finely chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to the mixture for extra flavor and moisture.
Use plant-based ground meat and vegan Parmesan to make this recipe fully vegan-friendly.
Dampening your hands before shaping the loaf prevents sticking and helps create a smooth finish.
Serve with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Storage

Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat slices gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through. You can also freeze cooked meatloaf for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

A loaf-shaped meatloaf sits on a white plate placed on a white marbled surface. The meatloaf has a deep reddish-brown color and is topped with a layer of chunky red sauce mixed with small pieces of onion and herbs, giving a slightly glossy texture. Green chopped parsley is sprinkled lightly over the top and on the plate around the meatloaf, adding a fresh touch. One thick slice is cut from the front, showing the dense, textured inside of the meatloaf, which is light brown with small bits of ingredients visible throughout. The overall look is warm and hearty. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture and shape the loaf a day in advance. Keep it covered in the refrigerator and bake it fresh when ready.

What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?

If you prefer, you can use a plant-based Parmesan alternative or omit it entirely. Nutritional yeast can also add a cheesy flavor if you want a vegan option.