Italian meatloaf, or Polpettone, is a delicious twist on a classic comfort food. This dish combines the familiar flavors of a traditional American meatloaf with the rich and vibrant tastes of Italy. With juicy ground meat, herbs, fresh garlic, and plenty of Parmesan cheese, Italian meatloaf is packed with robust flavors that make it a beloved dinner choice. Perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners, it can be served with pasta, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad. It’s a recipe that brings warmth and satisfaction to every bite.
The secret to a great Italian meatloaf is using quality ingredients and taking the time to build layers of flavor. We’ll incorporate a medley of herbs like basil and oregano, a touch of tomato for sweetness, and a gooey mozzarella center for a delightful surprise when sliced. Follow this step-by-step recipe to create a delicious Italian meatloaf that is moist, tender, and bursting with traditional Italian flair.
Ingredients
For the meatloaf:
500g (1 lb) ground beef
250g (1/2 lb) ground pork
1 cup fresh breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup whole milk
2 large eggs
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
2 teaspoons dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
200g (7 oz) mozzarella cheese, cut into cubes (for stuffing)
2 tablespoons olive oil
For the glaze:
1/2 cup tomato sauce or marinara
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Directions
1. Prepare the Meat Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and pork. Add the fresh breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Crack in the eggs and pour in the milk. Mix everything together using your hands or a spatula until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated. Be gentle to avoid over-mixing, which can make the meatloaf tough.
2. Shape and Stuff the Meatloaf
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper. Transfer the meat mixture onto the baking sheet and shape it into a rectangle about 1 inch thick. Lay the mozzarella cheese cubes down the center of the rectangle, then carefully fold the edges of the meat mixture over to enclose the cheese, forming a loaf shape. Make sure the cheese is fully covered to prevent any leaks during baking.
3. Prepare the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the tomato sauce, tomato paste, balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, and dried oregano. This glaze will add a sweet and tangy layer that balances the savory flavors of the meatloaf.
4. Bake the Meatloaf
Brush half of the glaze over the top of the meatloaf. Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, remove the meatloaf from the oven and brush the remaining glaze over the top. Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the top is caramelized.
How to Prepare
1. Let the Meatloaf Rest
Once the meatloaf is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and allow it to rest for 10 minutes. This resting time helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, making it moist and easier to slice.
2. Slice and Serve
Use a sharp knife to slice the meatloaf into thick pieces. Serve it with a side of pasta, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables. A simple green salad or a drizzle of extra marinara sauce can also elevate the presentation and flavor.
Preparation Time
Mixing and preparation: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Resting time: 10 minutes
Total time: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings
This recipe yields about 6-8 servings, depending on portion size. It’s perfect for a family dinner or for leftovers that taste even better the next day!
FAQs
1. Can I use different types of meat for this recipe?
Yes! While a mix of ground beef and pork provides great flavor and texture, you can also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Keep in mind that leaner meats may require additional moisture to prevent the meatloaf from drying out.
2. How can I make the meatloaf gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, simply replace the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Ensure all other ingredients, like tomato sauce, are also gluten-free.
3. Can I add vegetables to the meatloaf?
Absolutely! You can finely chop vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini and add them to the meat mixture. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds moisture to the meatloaf.
4. How do I store leftover meatloaf?
Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze slices for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
5. What other cheese can I use for stuffing?
If mozzarella isn’t available, provolone, fontina, or a combination of cheeses like cheddar and Parmesan work wonderfully. The cheese should be a good melting type to create a gooey center.
