Italian-style beef and tomato meatloaf
This Italian-style beef and tomato meatloaf combines ground beef with fresh basil, pine nuts, and a savory pasta sauce for a flavorful twist on a classic dish. Topped with juicy cherry tomatoes and mushrooms, it’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Cook time 50 min
Prep time 15 min
Ingredients:
18 oz ground beef (80/20%)1 egg
1/2 cup bread crumbs
1/3 cup pine nuts
1 onion
1/2 cup basil leaves
1 cup cherry tomatoes
1 cup mushrooms
1 cup pasta sauce
2 garlic cloves
Experience a delightful twist on a classic comfort food with this Italian-style beef and tomato meatloaf. This recipe combines rich ground beef with fresh basil, pine nuts, and a savory pasta sauce, creating a flavorful and moist meatloaf that is sure to become a family favorite. The addition of juicy cherry tomatoes and mushrooms adds depth and an authentic Italian touch. Perfect for dinner parties or a cozy family meal, this meatloaf is both hearty and satisfying.
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Finely chop the onion.
- Halve the cherry tomatoes.
- Slice the mushrooms.
- Mince the garlic cloves.
- Chop the basil leaves.
In a small pan over medium heat, lightly toast the pine nuts until they are golden brown and fragrant. This will take about 2-3 minutes. Be sure to stir frequently to prevent burning. Set aside to cool.
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, bread crumbs, toasted pine nuts, chopped onion, garlic, and basil. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Use your hands or a large spoon to blend the ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix.
Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan. Press it down firmly and shape it evenly.
Evenly distribute the halved cherry tomatoes and sliced mushrooms over the top of the meatloaf.
Pour the pasta sauce over the top of the meatloaf, ensuring it covers the tomatoes and mushrooms. Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
Once cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This will help the meatloaf hold together when cut.
Serve slices of the Italian-style beef and tomato meatloaf with your favorite side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, salad, or steamed vegetables.
This Italian-style beef and tomato meatloaf is a delectable fusion of classic meatloaf and vibrant Italian flavors. Easy to prepare yet impressive in taste, it makes for a perfect family meal or a dish to impress guests. The combination of tender beef, aromatic basil, and rich pasta sauce creates a moist and flavorful meatloaf that pairs wonderfully with a side of your favorite veggies or mashed potatoes. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this Italian-inspired dish.
Italian-style beef and tomato meatloaf FAQ:
Bake the meatloaf in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 1 hour, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months, wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or pork. Be aware that cooking times may vary slightly based on the meat used.
A standard 9x5 inch loaf pan works well for this meatloaf recipe. Make sure to lightly grease the pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
The meatloaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). You can check this with a meat thermometer inserted in the center of the loaf.
Cooking Tips:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure the meatloaf cooks evenly.
- Finely chop the onion and garlic to ensure they distribute evenly throughout the meatloaf, providing consistent flavor in every bite.
- Lightly toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat before adding them to the mixture to enhance their nutty flavor.
- Use fresh basil leaves for the best flavor; if using dried basil, use about 1.5 teaspoons instead.
- Mix the ingredients gently to avoid overworking the ground beef, which can lead to a dense meatloaf.
- Place the meatloaf mixture on a lined baking sheet or in a loaf pan for easy removal and cleanup.
- Allow the meatloaf to rest for about 10 minutes after baking to let the juices redistribute and make slicing easier.
- Serve your meatloaf with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple salad to complete the meal.
Nutrition Facts
4 ServingsCalories 550kcal
Protein 30g
Carbohydrates 22g
Fiber 3.96g
Sugar 9g
Fat 36g
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