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Italian Meatloaf

Savory Italian Meatloaf: A Juicy Twist on a Classic Comfort

This Italian Meatloaf is a low-carb and high-protein twist on a classic comfort dish, loaded with delicious flavors and cheesy goodness.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6 slices
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Meatloaf
  • 1 lb Lean Ground Beef 80/20 blend preferred
  • 1 cup Italian Seasoned Bread Crumbs can substitute with plain or Panko
  • 0.5 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese use freshly grated for best results
  • 2 cloves Minced Garlic fresh garlic is highly recommended
  • 1 tsp Salt adjust to taste
  • 0.5 tsp Black Pepper freshly ground is preferred
  • 1 tbsp Italian Seasoning can use dried oregano and thyme as substitutes
  • 1 tsp Onion Powder
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder
  • 0.25 cup Fresh Chopped Basil dried basil can be used if fresh is unavailable
  • 0.25 cup Fresh Parsley
  • 1 cup Pasta Sauce or Marinara Sauce both homemade and store-bought options are great
  • 0.5 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese adds creaminess and cheesiness
  • 1 ea Egg beaten

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Baking Sheet
  • Meat thermometer

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheesy Italian Meatloaf
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Gather ingredients and equipment including a large mixing bowl and a lined, greased baking sheet.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the lean ground beef, Italian seasoned bread crumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, fresh chopped basil, and parsley. Add half a cup of pasta sauce and half a cup of shredded mozzarella cheese along with the beaten egg. Mix thoroughly.
  3. Transfer the meatloaf mixture onto the lined baking sheet and shape it into a loaf approximately 8 inches long and 4 inches wide.
  4. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, until firm to touch and internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
  5. Carefully remove the meatloaf from the oven. Spread the remaining pasta sauce over the top and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese.
  6. Return to oven for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is bubbling and melting.
  7. Let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve hot with sides.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 28gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 550mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze slices wrapped individually for up to 3 months.

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