This Italian-style meatloaf is juicy, flavorful, and loaded with classic Italian comfort—herbs, garlic, Parmesan, and a rich marinara topping finished with melty mozzarella. It’s like meatloaf and meatballs had the best possible baby.

🧺 Ingredients (Serves 6)

Meatloaf

• 1½ lb (680 g) ground meat (beef or beef & pork mix)
• 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs
• ½ cup milk
• 2 large eggs
• ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1½ tsp Italian seasoning
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Topping

• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• Optional: extra Parmesan, fresh basil

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prep

• Preheat oven to 175°C / 350°F
• Grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment

Step 2: Make the Meatloaf Mixture

1. In a large bowl, mix breadcrumbs and milk; let soak 1 minute.
2. Add eggs, Parmesan, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and parsley.
3. Stir gently.
4. Add ground meat and mix just until combined (don’t overmix).

Step 3: Shape & First Bake

1. Shape mixture into a loaf (or press lightly into loaf pan).
2. Spread ½ cup marinara over the top.
3. Bake uncovered 35–40 minutes.

Step 4: Add Cheese

1. Remove meatloaf from oven.
2. Spoon remaining marinara on top.
3. Sprinkle mozzarella (and extra Parmesan if desired).

Step 5: Finish Baking

• Return to oven and bake 15–20 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly
• Internal temperature should reach 71°C / 160°F

Step 6: Rest & Serve

• Let rest 10 minutes before slicing
• Garnish with fresh basil or parsley

⭐ Pro Tips for Best Flavor

• Parmesan adds saltiness and depth—don’t skip it
• Mixing gently keeps the meatloaf tender
• Resting time = clean slices & juicy texture
• Bake on a rack over a pan for less grease (optional)

🔄 Easy Variations

• 🧀 Add diced mozzarella inside the meatloaf
• 🌶️ Add red pepper flakes for heat
• 🍄 Add sautéed mushrooms for extra moisture
• 🥓 Wrap with prosciutto or bacon for richness

🍽️ Serve With

• Garlic mashed potatoes
• Pasta or polenta
• Roasted vegetables
• Crusty bread

If you want, I can also share:

• 🍝 Italian meatloaf with spaghetti
• 🧀 Stuffed Italian meatloaf
• 🔥 Air fryer version
• 🥩 Meatball-style Italian loaf

Just tell me 😊