Description
Looking for a cozy, comforting dinner idea that brings bold flavors to the table? This Savory Italian Meatloaf with Cheese is a perfect blend of juicy beef, Italian herbs, and melted mozzarella all wrapped in rich marinara sauce. Whether you need a reliable easy dinner, meal prep option, or new food idea for the family, this dish delivers on flavor and simplicity. It’s a great addition to your easy recipe list and works beautifully as a quick weeknight dinner or a hearty weekend lunch. Moist, cheesy, and loaded with rustic Italian charm, it’s comfort food at its finest.
Ingredients
2 pounds ground beef
1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
2 large eggs
1 small zucchini, finely grated
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1/2 cup marinara sauce
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Salt and black pepper to taste
Olive oil for sautéing
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté the onion, zucchini, and garlic until soft, about 5–7 minutes. Let cool slightly.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, sautéed vegetables, breadcrumbs, eggs, Parmesan, tomato paste, 1/2 cup marinara, parsley, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Press half the mixture into a loaf shape in a greased loaf pan or lined baking sheet. Make an indentation in the center and add 1 cup of mozzarella. Cover with remaining meat mixture and seal edges.
4. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 35–40 minutes. Add more marinara and the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella on top. Bake another 10–15 minutes until internal temp reaches 160°F.
5. Rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with parsley and serve.
Notes
1. For a leaner version, swap half the beef with ground turkey or chicken.
2. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option.
3. Smoked mozzarella or provolone can add a richer flavor twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: meatloaf, Italian meatloaf, cheesy meatloaf, easy dinner, comfort food