Cheesy Italian Meatloaf Recipe

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)

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. 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.
3. Shape the Loaf
   Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared pan.
4. Bake First Stage
   Bake uncovered for 45 minutes.
5. Add Sauce & Cheese
   Remove from oven, spoon marinara sauce over the top, and sprinkle generously with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake Until Melty
   Return to the oven for another 15–20 minutes, or until cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
7. Rest & Serve
   Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped parsley.

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