Ingredients
Scale
For the Meatloaf Mixture
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef (80% lean)
- ½ pound ground pork
- ½ cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup whole milk
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Stuffing
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
- ¼ cup roasted red bell peppers, chopped (optional)
- ¼ cup thinly sliced prosciutto or salami (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried basil)
For the Tomato Sauce
- 2 cups tomato sauce (or marinara sauce)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, Italian breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, eggs, milk, minced garlic, diced onion, chopped parsley, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Mix the ingredients until well combined, but be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Stuffing
- In a medium bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, chopped spinach, chopped roasted red bell peppers (if using), thinly sliced prosciutto or salami (if using), and fresh basil.
- Stir until the ingredients are well mixed. This filling will add flavor and moisture to the meatloaf, while also providing a beautiful layer when sliced.
Step 3: Assemble the Meatloaf Brasciole
- Place a large sheet of parchment paper or plastic wrap on your work surface. Spread the meatloaf mixture onto the sheet, pressing it into a rectangular shape about ½ inch thick.
- Spread the cheese and vegetable stuffing evenly over the meatloaf rectangle, leaving about a 1-inch border around the edges to prevent the filling from spilling out when you roll it.
- Using the parchment paper or plastic wrap to help you, carefully roll the meatloaf from one short end to the other, creating a tight roll. Pinch the seams and ends to seal the roll and prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.
- Carefully transfer the rolled meatloaf onto the prepared baking sheet, seam-side down.
Step 4: Prepare the Tomato Sauce
- In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Pour about half of the tomato sauce over the meatloaf roll, reserving the rest for serving.
Step 5: Bake the Meatloaf Brasciole
- Cover the meatloaf with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and spoon some of the remaining tomato sauce over the meatloaf.
- Continue baking, uncovered, for an additional 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the top is nicely browned.
- Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meatloaf moist.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
- Slice the Meatloaf Brasciole into thick pieces and serve with the reserved tomato sauce on the side.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and added flavor. Serve hot and enjoy this Italian-inspired twist on classic meatloaf!
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 thick slice of meatloaf
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Fat: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g