Meatloaf is a classic comfort food that many people enjoy, and this recipe offers a delicious twist with Italian flavors. It’s no wonder your husband is addicted to it! Teaching him how to make it himself will not only give you a break but also empower him in the kitchen. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, he’ll soon be able to recreate this dish whenever the craving strikes.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce
- Additional marinara sauce for topping
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (optional, for topping)
Directions:
- Preparation: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mixing the Meatloaf: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, milk, chopped onion, minced garlic, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Forming the Meatloaf: Press the meat mixture into a loaf pan, ensuring it’s evenly distributed and packed tightly.
- Adding Sauce: Spread 1/2 cup of marinara sauce over the top of the meatloaf, evenly coating it.
- Baking: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 1 hour, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- Optional Toppings: If desired, during the last 10 minutes of baking, top the meatloaf with additional marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese for extra flavor and gooey goodness.
- Rest and Serve: Once baked, let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful meatloaf. Serve slices of the meatloaf with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Tips:
- Use lean ground beef for a healthier option.
- Don’t overmix the meat mixture to avoid a dense texture in the finished meatloaf.
- Adjust seasonings according to personal preference.
- Leftover meatloaf can be refrigerated and enjoyed for several days or frozen for longer storage.
Conclusion:
With this recipe and easy-to-follow steps, your husband will soon become a pro at making this delicious Italian-style meatloaf. It’s a satisfying dish that’s perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings with friends. Enjoy the process of cooking together and savor every bite of this flavorful comfort food!