Easy Italian Mini Meatloaf

Introduction

There’s something undeniably comforting about meatloaf, especially when it’s infused with Italian flavors. This Easy Italian Mini Meatloaf recipe has become a favorite in my household for its simplicity and deliciousness. My family absolutely loves it! The mini size makes it perfect for individual servings, and the blend of marinara sauce, Parmesan cheese, and Italian breadcrumbs creates a flavor explosion that leaves everyone wanting more. Plus, they are quick to prepare, which is a huge bonus on busy weeknights. Whether served with a side of pasta or a fresh salad, these mini meatloaves are a guaranteed hit at the dinner table.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef (80/20)
• 2/3 cup Italian-style bread crumbs
• 1/2 cup marinara sauce
• 1/3 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon freshly chopped parsley (use extra for garnish)

FOR THE GLAZE:

• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
• 1/2 tablespoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon white vinegar

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a sheet tray with foil and spray it lightly with cooking spray; set aside.

1. Prepare the Meat Mixture:

• In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, Italian breadcrumbs, marinara sauce, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, and the egg. I prefer using clean hands to mix everything thoroughly until well combined.

1. Shape the Mini Loaves:

• Form the meat mixture into 4 round loaves and flatten each loaf slightly. This helps them cook evenly.

1. Bake the Meatloaves:

• Place the loaves on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C). Using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure they’re cooked properly.

1. Prepare the Glaze:

• While the mini meatloaves are baking, mix all the glaze ingredients—ketchup, BBQ sauce, sugar, and white vinegar—in a small bowl until well combined.

1. Glaze and Finish Baking:

• Once the mini meatloaves are out of the oven, spoon 1-2 tablespoons of the glaze on top of each meatloaf. Return them to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes.

1. Garnish and Serve:

• Garnish the finished meatloaves with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: Approximately 350
• Total Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 90mg
• Sodium: 600mg
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 6g
• Protein: 24g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

How to Serve

• On a Plate: Serve the mini meatloaves on a plate with a drizzle of additional marinara sauce on the side.
• With Pasta: Pair them with spaghetti or your favorite pasta and a side salad for a complete meal.
• Garnished: Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for an added pop of color.
• With Bread: Serve with garlic bread or breadsticks to soak up the flavors.
• As Sliders: Slice the meatloaf into smaller pieces and serve in slider buns for a fun twist.

Additional Tips

1. Use Leaner Meat: For a healthier option, you can use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
2. Add Veggies: Sneak in finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition.
3. Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the Italian breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this dish gluten-free.
4. Make Ahead: Prepare the meat mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
5. Check Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your meatloaf is cooked through to 165°F for safety.

Recipe Variations

• Cheesy Meatloaf: Add 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese to the meat mixture for an extra cheesy version.
• Spicy Kick: Incorporate red pepper flakes or hot sauce into the meat mixture for a spicy kick.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs such as basil or oregano to enhance the Italian flavors.
• BBQ Twist: Swap out the marinara sauce for BBQ sauce in the meat mixture for a sweet and tangy flavor.
• Mini Muffin Style: For fun shapes, use a muffin tin to bake the meatloaves.

Serving Suggestions

• Side Dishes: Pair with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a Caesar salad.
• Wine Pairing: Serve with a light red wine such as Pinot Noir or Chianti to complement the Italian flavors.
• Beverages: Offer sparkling water with lemon or iced tea for a refreshing drink.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: The mini meatloaves can be frozen before or after cooking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or store in airtight containers. They will last for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave for a quicker option.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use fresh crab meat instead of canned?

• Yes, fresh crab meat can be used for a fresher taste, just ensure it’s properly cooked.

1. How do I know when the meatloaf is done?

• The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer; it should read at least 165°F (74°C).

1. Can I prepare the mixture the night before?

• Absolutely! Prepare the mixture and store it in the refrigerator overnight.

1. What if I don’t have marinara sauce?

• You can substitute it with spaghetti sauce or any tomato-based sauce you have on hand.

1. Can I make these mini meatloaves in advance?

• Yes, they can be cooked and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before serving.

1. Are these mini meatloaves freezer-friendly?

• Yes, they freeze well before or after cooking.

1. What can I serve with mini meatloaves?

• They pair well with pasta, salads, or roasted vegetables.

1. Can I substitute the ground beef?

• Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or pork as alternatives.

1. How do I prevent the meatloaves from drying out?

• Avoid overcooking, and you can add a bit of extra marinara sauce into the mixture for moisture.

1. Can I make these mini meatloaves larger?
   • Yes, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Conclusion

This Easy Italian Mini Meatloaf recipe is a delightful and satisfying meal that is simple enough for weeknight dinners but impressive enough for entertaining. The combination of ground beef, marinara sauce, and Italian flavors makes it a comforting dish that everyone will love. Plus, with its versatility in serving options and the ability to customize, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your home. Whether you’re making it for family or friends, these mini meatloaves are sure to steal the show!

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