Meat Loaf Italian-style

Meat Loaf Italian-style Recipe from Italy with pasta, white wine, ground round, turkey, garlic, mushrooms, eggs, and more

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 50-60 minutes | Servings: 4-6

Introduction

Meat Loaf Italian-style is a delicious and hearty dish that combines ground round and ground turkey with Italian flavors and pasta. This recipe is perfect for a comforting family meal or a special dinner with friends.

History

Meatloaf has been a popular dish in American cuisine for many years, with variations from different cultures adding their own unique twist. This Italian-style meatloaf recipe takes inspiration from traditional Italian flavors and ingredients, creating a flavorful and satisfying dish.

Ingredients

100 g of pasta (such as rotini, lasagne, or spaghetti)
0.25 cup of breadcrumbs
1 tbsp of white wine
12 oz (340 g) of ground round
12 oz (340 g) of ground turkey
2 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
3.5 oz (99 g) of mushrooms, finely chopped
2 beaten eggs
1 tbsp of italian seasoning
0.25 cup of sour cream
4 green onions, finely chopped
2 tbsp of parsley, finely chopped
0.25 – 0.5 cup of spaghetti sauce

How to prepare

Grease a loaf pan.
Cook the pasta until al dente (a good way to use up leftover pasta), then drain and set it aside.
Soak the breadcrumbs in wine.
Add the beef, turkey, eggs, garlic, mushrooms, Italian seasoning, green onions, and sour cream to the breadcrumb mixture.
Place half of the meat mixture into the greased loaf pan.
Form a trough along the length of the loaf pan through the meat.
Fill the trough with the pasta and two tablespoons of sauce.
Cover with the remaining meat mixture.
Top with spaghetti sauce.
Bake for 50-60 minutes, draining excess fat and juices at least twice.
Allow it to cool for at least 5 minutes before serving.

Variations

Add diced bell peppers or olives to the meat mixture for added flavor and texture.
Use ground beef or pork instead of ground turkey for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to drain excess fat and juices from the meatloaf at least twice during baking to prevent it from becoming too greasy.

- Allow the meatloaf to cool for at least 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

- Serve with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Baking

Ingredient Substitutions

Use any type of ground meat in place of ground round and ground turkey.

- Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a lighter option.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the meatloaf mixture in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve with a glass of Chianti or Sangiovese wine for a classic Italian pairing.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

300 per serving

Carbohydrates

25g per serving

Fats

- Total Fat: 15g per serving

- Saturated Fat: 6g per serving

Proteins

- Protein: 25g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 10% DV

- Vitamin C: 15% DV

- Iron: 20% DV

Alergens

Contains: Wheat, Eggs, Dairy

Summary

This Meat Loaf Italian-style recipe is a good source of protein and iron, but it is also high in fat and calories. Enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

Meat Loaf Italian-style is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a family meal or special occasion. With Italian flavors and pasta, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the rich flavors and hearty texture of this classic dish!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I knew it was something I had to try. I had always been drawn to Italian cuisine, with its bold flavors and comforting dishes. So when I came across a recipe for Meat Loaf Italian-style in an old cookbook at a yard sale, I was immediately intrigued.

I brought the cookbook home and poured over the pages, taking in the detailed instructions and vibrant photographs. The meatloaf recipe caught my eye with its unique combination of ingredients - ground beef, Italian sausage, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and a blend of herbs and spices. It seemed like a delicious twist on a classic comfort food.

I decided to give the recipe a try that weekend, gathering all the ingredients and setting to work in my cozy kitchen. As I mixed the meat and seasonings together, I could already smell the rich aromas wafting through the air. I shaped the mixture into a loaf and placed it in the oven to bake, eagerly anticipating the final result.

When the meatloaf was finally done, I pulled it out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into it. The flavors were incredible - savory, herby, and bursting with Italian flair. The combination of the ground beef and sausage created a unique texture, while the Parmesan cheese added a subtle nuttiness that tied everything together.

I served the Meat Loaf Italian-style to my family that night, watching their faces light up as they took their first bites. They couldn't believe how delicious it was, and I felt a swell of pride knowing that I had created something so special.

From that moment on, the Meat Loaf Italian-style became a staple in my repertoire. I would make it for family gatherings, potlucks, and special occasions, each time receiving rave reviews and requests for the recipe. I happily shared it with anyone who asked, knowing that it had quickly become a favorite in our household.

But the story of this recipe doesn't end there. As the years went by, I continued to experiment and refine the Meat Loaf Italian-style, adding my own personal touches and tweaks to make it truly my own. I would swap out the Italian sausage for spicy sausage for a kick of heat, or add in roasted red peppers for a sweet and smoky flavor. Each variation was a hit, and I loved seeing how versatile and adaptable the recipe could be.

I also learned that the best recipes are not just about the ingredients, but about the memories and moments they create. The Meat Loaf Italian-style became a symbol of family togetherness, a dish that brought us all closer and reminded us of the simple joys of sharing a meal with loved ones.

As I sit here now, with the cookbook open in front of me and the scent of meatloaf wafting through the air, I can't help but feel grateful for the journey that led me to this recipe. It may have started with a chance discovery at a yard sale, but it has grown into so much more - a beloved tradition that will be passed down through generations to come.

And so, with a heart full of love and a belly full of delicious meatloaf, I raise a toast to the power of good food, good company, and the joy of cooking. Cheers to the Meat Loaf Italian-style, a recipe that will always hold a special place in my heart.