If you think you don’t like meatloaf, think again! This Easy Italian Meatloaf is a fun twist on the classic, packed with bold flavors and topped with marinara sauce. Even meatloaf haters have been converted after one bite—it's like a giant, tender Italian meatball!
This post was Originally Published on December 15, 2017, Updated on January 3, 2023, and Re-published on January 19, 2021, and November 25, 2024, to improve content and photos.
Over the years, countless people have told me they “hate” meatloaf, but this recipe changes minds every time. With its delicious, savory flavors and perfectly moist texture, it’s no surprise they say it reminds them of their favorite meatballs.
This Italian-Style Meatloaf Recipe has also become a family favorite in our house. It’s simple to make, always turns out delicious, and pairs perfectly with many sides.
Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a Sunday gathering, this Italian Meatloaf is a meal that brings everyone to the table!
Jump to:
📋 Ingredients to Make the Best Italian Meatloaf
- Meat - A combination of ground beef and pork gives this meatloaf its signature flavor and tender texture. Kick it up a notch by swapping some ground pork for ground Italian sausage (hot or sweet).
- Bread vs. Breadcrumbs - Soaking a slice of bread in milk creates a soft, moist texture that you just can’t achieve with breadcrumbs. It’s my go-to trick for both meatloaf and meatballs.
- Seasonings - Keep it simple! Italian herbs and seasonings bring just the right flavor to this juicy meatloaf. Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a touch of heat!
- Sauce - Use my Quick Marinara Sauce for a speedy option, or go all out with a Slow-Cooked Sunday Sauce. In a pinch, a good-quality jarred marinara will work too.
⭐️ Chef's Secret
The secret to the perfect meatloaf is simple: avoid overmixing the meat and use a thermometer to check for doneness. These two tips ensure a juicy, flavorful meatloaf with a tender texture that’s never dense or tough.
👩🏻🍳 How to Make an Italian Meatloaf with Marinara
Make the Mixture - Place a slice of bread in a large mixing bowl and pour the milk over it to let it soak up and soften.
Add the remaining ingredients (except the marinara) to the bowl. Mix gently by hand just until combined—overmixing can lead to a dense meatloaf.
Shape and Bake - Transfer the meat mixture to a rimmed baking sheet. (Use parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.)
Shape the meat into an evenly thick loaf and bake at 350˚F for 20 minutes.
Finish and Rest - Spread the marinara sauce evenly over the top of the meatloaf and return it to the oven for another 10-15 minutes. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (it will continue to rise as it rests).
Let the meatloaf rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, making each slice moist and flavorful.
📘 Glossary
If you don't recognize a tool or skill I mentioned, you can look it up in my Glossary of Cooking Terms and Definitions for more information!
🥗 Side Dishes to Serve with Italian-Style Meatloaf
Here are a few of my favorite sides to pair with this comforting dish.
- Arugula Salad: A simple salad with a tangy vinaigrette.
- Garlic Herb and Cheese Bread: Soft, cheesy, and packed with garlic flavor.
- Cheese Stuffed Bread Bites: These bite-sized snacks are great for soaking up extra marinara.
- Roasted Artichokes: A savory, side that complements the Italian flavors.
🍝 More Sunday Dinner Ideas
If you love this Italian Meatloaf, try these other family favorites, perfect for Sunday dinner.
📖 Recipe
Easy Italian Meatloaf with Marinara
Ingredients
- 1 slice white bread
- ¼ cup whole milk
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound ground pork
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons dried parsley
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ cup shredded parmesan cheese
- 1 cup Italian Sunday Gravy , Marinara, or store-bought sauce
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy clean up.
- Place the slice of bread in a large mixing bowl and pour the milk on top to soak in.
- Add the remaining ingredients, except the marinara, and use your hands to mix the ingredients, but do not overmix.
- Turn the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and shape it into an evenly thick loaf.
- Bake for 20 minutes, spread the sauce on top, and then bake for 10-15 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
- Let the meatloaf rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Ida Krozel
So good finally the best meatloaf I have ever made!
Amanda
Thank you Ida! I'm so happy to hear that - it's definitely a family favorite of ours.
Terri Wilkins
Easy and tasty so I will definitely make this again. I would use only 1/2 tsp of salt though and figure 10-15 minutes more cooking time. This was a hit in my house! Thank you for the recipe.
Amanda
I'm so glad you enjoyed it!
Tess
I’m going to be honest, I am not a meatloaf fan, but when I saw the pictures of this my mouth was watering! I decided to give it a try and I was not disappointed! It was so delicious, I can’t wait to eat the leftovers for lunch!
Amanda
I'm so happy to hear that Tess, thank you for trying!
Heather
This was a hit with my family. As my husband normally doesn’t care for meatloaf, my boys were a bit wary until they tasted it. Both boys and my husband went back for more. I wish I could say I had leftovers for tomorrow. 🙂
Amanda
I'm so glad your family loved this recipe! Thank you for trying 🙂