italian meatloaf

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:

1. Preparation: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. 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.
3. Forming the Meatloaf: Press the meat mixture into a loaf pan, ensuring it’s evenly distributed and packed tightly.
4. Adding Sauce: Spread 1/2 cup of marinara sauce over the top of the meatloaf, evenly coating it.
5. 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).
6. 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.
7. 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!