Best Italian Meatloaf Recipe (Juicy, Cheesy & Easy Oven-Baked Dinner)
Looking for the best Italian meatloaf recipe that’s juicy, flavorful, and packed with cheese? This easy homemade Italian meatloaf combines ground beef, Italian sausage, herbs, and marinara sauce for a comforting family dinner that’s perfect for weeknights or special occasions.
🛒 Ingredients for Italian Meatloaf
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 lb ground mild Italian sausage
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper (any color)
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 egg, beaten
- 3/4 cup Italian bread crumbs
- 2 slices white bread, crumbled
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 8 oz shredded mozzarella cheese (reserve 3/4 cup for topping)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce (+ extra 1/2 to 3/4 cup for topping)
👨🍳 How to Make Italian Meatloaf (Step-by-Step)
1. Prepare the Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté the chopped onion and bell pepper for about
3–4 minutes until slightly softened. Remove from heat and let cool.
2. Mix the Meatloaf
In a large bowl, combine:
- Ground beef
- Italian sausage
- Cooked vegetables
- Garlic, herbs, Worcestershire sauce
- Egg, breadcrumbs, crumbled bread, milk
- Mozzarella (except reserved portion)
- Parmesan cheese
- Marinara sauce
Mix everything thoroughly using your hands until well combined.
3. Shape the Meatloaf
Transfer the mixture into a baking dish and shape it into a loaf (about 2 inches thick).
4. Add Sauce
Spread 1/2 to 3/4 cup marinara sauce evenly over the top.
5. Bake
Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 50 minutes.
6. Add Cheese Topping
Remove from oven, sprinkle the reserved mozzarella cheese on top, and add a pinch of dried basil.
Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
✅ Tips for the Best Italian Meatloaf
- Don’t overmix the meat to keep it tender
- Use a mix of beef and sausage for richer flavor
- Let the meatloaf rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing
- Ensure internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C)
🍽️ What to Serve with Italian Meatloaf
- Garlic mashed potatoes
- Roasted vegetables
- Pasta with marinara sauce
- Fresh green salad