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Italian meatloaf topped with marinara sauce and fresh herbs on a white platter.

Italian Herb & Cheese Meatloaf

This savory Italian meatloaf combines ground beef and Italian sausage with fresh herbs, Parmesan cheese, and a zesty tomato topping for a delicious twist on a classic comfort food.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meatloaf
  • 1 pound ground beef 85% lean
  • 1/2 pound Italian sausage casings removed
  • 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
  • 1 large onion finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 large eggs beaten
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh basil chopped
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/4 cup milk
For the Topping
  • 3/4 cup marinara sauce
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese grated, for topping

Equipment

  • Loaf Pan
  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Medium bowl
  • Measuring Cups
  • Measuring Spoons
  • Skillet

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan with cooking spray or olive oil.
  2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Making the Meatloaf Mixture
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, Italian sausage, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, shredded mozzarella, beaten eggs, parsley, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  2. Add the cooled onion and garlic mixture along with the milk. Mix gently with your hands until just combined (avoid overmixing as it will make the meatloaf tough).
Forming and Baking
  1. Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared loaf pan and shape into a loaf, pressing down gently to eliminate air pockets.
  2. In a small bowl, mix the marinara sauce, tomato paste, and Italian seasoning. Spread this mixture evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
  3. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 55-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) when tested with a meat thermometer.
  4. During the last 10 minutes of baking, sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese on top of the meatloaf.
Finishing
  1. Once done, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.
  2. Slice and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious Italian Herb & Cheese Meatloaf!

Notes

For best results, do not overmix the meat mixture to keep the meatloaf tender. You can serve this with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple green salad.