what is italian name meatloaf

There’s nothing more comforting than a classic Italian meatloaf (polpettone) made with all the traditional flavors. It’s a delicious, easy way to feed the whole family.

This classic Italian meatloaf recipe is sure to become a firm family favourite. Simple, fast and so comforting, its always a crowd-pleaser!

Polpettone is a traditional Italian recipe with thousands of different variations: stuffed with cheese, vegetables, prosciutto, and many more.

But one thing is for sure: Italian meatloaf is a super easy recipe, perfect for a weeknight meal or for a holiday menu.

Ive made the basic version filled with Italian cheese. But you can add ham, veggies, bacon, Parma ham, or whatever you have in the fridge.

I promise that if you follow this step, your meatloaf will cook beautifully, it wont break and it will be juicy and tasty!

If you have made meatloaf before, chances are you have probably shaped the meatloaf into a loaf or stuffed a loaf pan with the meat mixture.

But doing so might result in a dry meatloaf or worse, it might actually fall apart.

My secret for a baked meatloaf thats tender but doesnt fall apart, is to cook it wrapped in parchment paper.

Its probably a bit unusual, but trust me, Ive been cooking it for 15 years and this technique has never failed me![feast_advanced_jump_to]

Polpettone is the Italian word for meatloaf, it literally translates to “big meatball”, because it calls for the same mixture used for making meatballs.

Italian polpettone is usually stuffed with cheese or hard-boiled eggs and can be served on its own or with tomato sauce.

I used a simple cheese filling for this easy Italian-style meatloaf, but here some other great add-ons:

The information shown is an estimate provided by an online nutrition calculator. It should not be considered a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice.

WHAT TO SERVE WITH ITALIAN MEATLOAF?

In Italy, there are two classic ways to serve polpettone: smothered with Italian tomato sauce, or served with roasted potatoes.

Here are some more delicious ways to serve Italian-style meatloaf:

HOW TO MAKE POLPETTONE STEP-BY-STEP

The recipe for Italian polpettone couldn’t be easier. It comes together in just one bowl and takes barely 10 minutes of work.

Scroll down until the end of the post for the full printable recipe.

STEP 1 – In a large bowl mix all the ingredients together besides the provolone cheese.

The mixture should be soft, perfectly blended together, and should not stick to the sides of the bowl.

STEP 2 – Place the mixture on a sheet of kitchen paper and form a small rectangle. Arrange the cubed cheese onto the center.

STEP 3 – Roll the meat with the help of the parchment paper to form a log. Make sure its well sealed on all sides.

Roll it in the parchment paper and twist the ends to form a large candy.

STEP 4 – Transfer onto a baking sheet and bake in the oven for 30 minutes.

After this time, the meatloaf will have released some liquid, but its totally ok.

Remove the parchment paper, drizzle the top with olive oil, then place back in the oven for a further 10 minutes.

Check if the meat is done with a meat thermometer, if it reaches 155°F/68°F you can safely remove it from the oven.

Let the meatloaf rest for about 15 minutes, then slice it and serve with your favourite sides.

This polpettone recipe is pretty straight-forward but these useful cooking tips will ensure the best results:

• Use a meat thermometer. Even if it looks like your meatloaf is done on the it may not be fully cooked on the inside. Use an instant-read meat thermometer and continue to cook the meatloaf until it reaches 155°F/68°F.
• Let it rest. Before slicing your meatloaf, let it rest for at least 15 minutes. This will make it easier to slice it for serving.

Store leftovers in an airtight container, it will keep well in the fridge for up to 2 days.

You can freeze the prepared meatloaf both whole or sliced. I like to cut it into individual slices, place them on a tray, freeze for 30 minutes, then transfer them into individual ziplock bags. You can store the meatloaf in the freezer for about 3 months. To defrost it, place it in the fridge the night before and consume it within a day.

Yes! You can prepare the meatloaf the night before, wrap it in parchment paper and bake it the next day.

Italian Meatloaf Recipe – Your Family Will Love This Twist On A Classic

FAQ

What nationality invented meatloaf?

Why put a hard boiled egg in meatloaf?

Are meatloaf healthy?

How to make Italian meatloaf?

Step 1) – Start making the classic Italian meatloaf recipe by chopping the beef with a meat grinder then place the ground meat in a large bowl. In the meantime, soften the slices of white bread in the milk. If you like, you can even use stale bread. Step 2) – Let the bread soak and soften as much as possible in the milk.

What is stuffed meatloaf?

Stuffed Meatloaf is a tender meat mix stuffed with shredded vegetables and topped with a zesty and sweet sauce. The perfect comfort meal! See The Recipe! Italian Meatloaf blends Italian sausage and ground beef with spices and cheese for a tender one dish meal. The perfect family meal!

What is Italian meatloaf with tomato sauce?

This tasty and hearty Italian-style meatloaf with tomato sauce combines the flavors of Italian cuisine with the comfort of a classic meatloaf for a combination that elevates meatloaf to being suitable for guests. Packed full of flavor, it’s a great way to get dinner on the table in under two hours, reheats beautifully and is freezer-friendly! Easy!

Is Italian chicken meatloaf a comfort food?

Italian Chicken Meatloaf is the best kind of comfort food! A twist on a classic, it’s ready in 1 hour- perfect for an easy weeknight meal. See The Recipe! French Onion Meatloaf uses a blend of spices with caramelized onions and a savory onion gravy. The ultimate comfort meal. See The Recipe!