Cheesy Italian Meatloaf Recipe
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
- 2 lbs ground beef (or a mix of beef & pork)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for inside the loaf)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup milk
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Topping:
- 1½ cups marinara sauce
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper. - Mix the Meatloaf
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, onion, garlic, mozzarella (reserve some for topping), Parmesan, milk, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix until just combined—don’t overmix. - Shape the Loaf
Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared pan. - Bake First Stage
Bake uncovered for 45 minutes. - Add Sauce & Cheese
Remove from oven, spoon marinara sauce over the top, and sprinkle generously with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. - Bake Until Melty
Return to the oven for another 15–20 minutes, or until cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. - Rest & Serve
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped parsley.