½ teaspoon black pepper
½ cup milk
1 cup marinara sauce (for topping)
2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing)
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil over medium heat until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Let cool slightly.
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, sautéed onion and garlic, mozzarella, eggs, parsley, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and milk. Mix gently but thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Shape the mixture into a loaf on a lined baking tray or place it in a loaf pan.
Spread the marinara sauce evenly over the top of the loaf.
Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) and the top is bubbly and browned.
Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Serving and Storage Tips:
Serve with a side of garlic mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freeze cooked meatloaf slices individually wrapped in plastic wrap and stored in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Variations:
Spicy Italian: Add ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes to the meat mixture for a kick.
Veggie-packed: Fold in ½ cup finely chopped spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
Cheese swap: Substitute mozzarella with provolone or fontina for a different flavor profile.
Glaze twist: Use BBQ sauce or a balsamic glaze instead of marinara for a unique taste.
FAQ:
Q: Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
A: Yes! Prepare the meat mixture and shape the loaf a day in advance, keep it covered in the fridge, then bake fresh the next day.
Q: Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead?
A: Absolutely! Adjust cooking time slightly and ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Q: How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
A: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should read 160°F (71°C) for beef and pork blends.
Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Yes, replace breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
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