Cheesy Italian-Style Meatloaf

Introduction

Meatloaf has long been a classic comfort food, loved for its hearty flavor and homey appeal. This Italian-inspired version takes the traditional dish up a notch by blending seasoned ground beef with Parmesan, herbs, and garlic, then finishing it with tangy marinara sauce and a blanket of melted mozzarella. The result is a juicy, flavor-packed loaf that feels both familiar and exciting. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or an impressive main dish for gatherings, this recipe brings together the warmth of comfort food with the bold flavors of Italian cuisine.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds (900 g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)

• 1 cup breadcrumbs

• 2 large eggs

• 1/2 cup milk

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)

• 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce

• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Make the Meatloaf Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, Parmesan, onion, garlic, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently with your hands until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the loaf tender.

Step 3: Shape and Bake
Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan and shape it into a smooth loaf. Bake uncovered for about 40 minutes.

Step 4: Add Sauce and Cheese
Remove the loaf from the oven. Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly over the top, then sprinkle generously with mozzarella cheese. Return to the oven and bake for another 15–20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).

Step 5: Rest and Serve
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with the remaining marinara sauce on the side.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Italian-Style Meatloaf combines everything you love about Italian flavors in a classic comfort dish. The savory beef, aromatic herbs, tangy marinara, and melty mozzarella create a perfect balance in every slice. Pair it with mashed potatoes, garlic bread, or a crisp green salad for a complete, crowd-pleasing meal. Whether for family dinners or entertaining guests, this meatloaf is guaranteed to become a favorite at your table.