Italian Meatloaf with Marinara Sauce and Mozzarella

Introduction

If you’re a fan of traditional meatloaf but crave a delicious Italian twist, this Italian Meatloaf with Marinara Sauce and Mozzarella will steal your heart. Juicy ground beef mixed with Italian herbs, Parmesan, and breadcrumbs is shaped into a hearty loaf, baked to perfection, then topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. The flavors mimic a cross between classic meatloaf and chicken Parmesan, creating a dish that’s cozy, cheesy, and full of Italian flair.

This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, Sunday family meals, or anytime you’re looking for comfort food with a gourmet touch. It’s familiar yet unique, making it an instant crowd-pleaser.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it combines the best of both worlds—the heartiness of classic meatloaf and the bold, savory flavors of Italian cuisine. The marinara keeps the loaf moist and flavorful, while the mozzarella creates that irresistible gooey topping that makes every slice a joy to eat.

It’s also a recipe that’s easy to make ahead, freezes beautifully, and transforms leftovers into the most amazing meatloaf sandwiches the next day. Every bite is comforting, cheesy, and full of character.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Combines classic comfort food with Italian-inspired flavors.
• The marinara sauce keeps the meatloaf moist and adds tangy richness.
• The melted mozzarella makes it decadent and irresistible.
• Perfect for family-style meals and gatherings.
• It’s a dish that feels both rustic and special at the same time.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour
• Resting Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes

Servings & Nutrition

• Servings: 6–8 slices
• Calories (per serving): ~420–450 kcal
• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 preferred)
• 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs (or plain breadcrumbs + 1 tsp Italian seasoning)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• ½ cup milk
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Topping:

• 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan (optional, for extra flavor)
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Preheat the oven:
   • Set to 375°F (190°C). Grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Make the meatloaf mixture:
   • In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, onion, garlic, eggs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
   • Mix gently with your hands until just combined (do not overmix).
3. Shape the loaf:
   • Transfer the mixture into the loaf pan or shape it freehand into a loaf on a baking sheet. Smooth the top.
4. Bake the meatloaf (first stage):
   • Bake uncovered for 45 minutes.
5. Add marinara and cheese:
   • Remove the loaf from the oven, spread 1 ½ cups marinara sauce evenly over the top.
   • Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese (reserve a little for final topping if desired).
6. Bake until done:
   • Return to oven and bake another 15–20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and cheese is bubbly and golden.
7. Rest and serve:
   • Let meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
   • Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, and serve with extra marinara sauce.

How to Serve

• Pair with buttered spaghetti or garlic bread for a full Italian-inspired meal.
• Serve with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or creamy mashed potatoes.
• Leftovers make incredible meatloaf Parmesan sandwiches with toasted bread and extra sauce.

Recipe Tips

• Use 80/20 beef for juicy results.
• Don’t skip resting time—it helps keep slices intact.
• If you like spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.
• Freshly shredded mozzarella melts better than pre-shredded.

Variations

• Stuffed Meatloaf: Add a layer of mozzarella or provolone in the center of the loaf.
• Turkey Italian Meatloaf: Swap ground beef for ground turkey (add extra breadcrumbs for binding).
• Veggie Boost: Add grated zucchini or carrots for extra moisture and nutrition.
• Spicy Version: Use arrabbiata sauce instead of marinara and add red pepper flakes.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerator: Store in airtight container up to 4 days.
• Freezer (uncooked): Shape loaf, wrap tightly, freeze up to 3 months. Thaw before baking.
• Freezer (cooked): Freeze slices with sauce for up to 2 months. Reheat covered in oven until warmed through.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Loaf pan or baking sheet
• Meat thermometer
• Baking dish (if adding extra marinara for serving)

Conclusion

Italian Meatloaf with Marinara Sauce and Mozzarella is comfort food with an Italian soul. Juicy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, it’s a meal that feels like a hug on a plate. Whether you’re serving it for Sunday dinner, a special gathering, or just a cozy night at home, this meatloaf is sure to impress.

With its golden cheesy top, rich marinara, and tender beef, this recipe is one you’ll keep coming back to—it’s the perfect fusion of Italian flavors and homestyle cooking.