Sicilian meatloaf is not your average loaf of meat. Picture this: a tender, savory blend of ground meats hugging a medley of herbs and spices that wafts through your kitchen like an Italian grandmother’s embrace. cozy meat pie variations The aroma will have you drooling before it even hits the table, and the first bite? Let’s just say it’s like a vacation to Sicily without needing sunscreen.
This dish has been a family favorite for generations, often gracing our dinner table during holidays and gatherings. I still remember my uncle trying to impress everyone with his cooking skills, only to have my nonna sneak in extra seasoning behind his back. stuffed chicken recipes The laughter that ensued was worth its weight in gold, and the Sicilian meatloaf was the star of the evening.
[info_box title=”Why You’ll Love This Recipe”] This delightful Sicilian meatloaf is easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners stress-free. Bursting with flavor, it brings Italian cuisine right to your home. Its beautiful presentation ensures it looks as good as it tastes on any table setting. Versatile enough for leftovers, enjoy it in sandwiches or pasta dishes throughout the week.[/info_box]
I once made this for a potluck and ended up with friends requesting seconds before I’d even finished serving the first round.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Ground Beef: A juicy foundation; choose 80/20 for optimal flavor and moisture.
Ground Pork: Adds richness and depth; feel free to adjust ratios based on preference.
Breadcrumbs: The secret binder; use fresh or dried for that perfect texture.
Parmesan Cheese: This cheesy goodness enhances flavor; don’t skimp on quality!
Fresh Parsley: A burst of freshness; chop finely for maximum impact.
Garlic Powder: A dash brings an aromatic kick; you can use fresh garlic too. For more inspiration, check out this rosemary garlic white bean soup recipe.
Eggs: Act as a binding agent; ensure they’re at room temperature for best results.
Onion: Sautéed beforehand adds sweetness; finely dice for even cooking.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings; adjust to taste based on preferences.
Ketchup or Tomato Sauce: For glaze and moisture; add before baking for a sweet finish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. classic green bean casserole.
Let’s Make it together
Sautéing Aromatics: Begin by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and fragrant, about five minutes.
Mixing the Meats: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef and ground pork. Use clean hands (the best tools in your kitchen) to mix them together until evenly blended.
Add Seasonings and Binders: Stir in breadcrumbs, eggs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, sautéed onions, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper into the meat mixture until well combined. Get ready for some serious flavor!
Molding into Shape: Transfer the mixture onto a lined baking sheet or into a loaf pan. Form it into an even loaf shape about two inches high—think of it as shaping an edible pillow!
Topping Off the Loaf: Spread your favorite ketchup or tomato sauce generously over the top of the meatloaf. This gives it that beautiful glaze while adding flavor as it bakes.
Baking Time!: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for about 60 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). Your kitchen will smell like heaven!
Enjoy every bite of this Sicilian meatloaf while soaking up compliments from friends and family!
[info_box title=”You Must Know”] To elevate your Sicilian Meatloaf, consider using fresh herbs for vibrant flavors. The aroma of garlic and basil will fill your kitchen with a delicious Mediterranean essence. Always let it rest after cooking to enhance the juiciness before slicing. [/info_box]
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then mix with ground meat and seasonings for the perfect blend. Bake at 350°F for about an hour, ensuring it’s cooked through but still juicy.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap beef for turkey or add veggies like spinach or bell peppers. hearty sausage tortellini soup Experiment with different cheeses for delightful surprises in every bite. For more inspiration, check out this hearty wild rice soup recipe.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F to maintain its flavor and texture.
[info_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips”] Use lean meat to keep your Sicilian Meatloaf moist while avoiding excess fat. Incorporate breadcrumbs soaked in milk to bind ingredients without drying out the loaf. Don’t skip the resting time; it’s key for juiciness! [/info_box]
The first time I made Sicilian Meatloaf, my family thought I was a culinary genius! The secret? A splash of red wine that added depth everyone raved about.
FAQ
What makes Sicilian Meatloaf different from traditional meatloaf?
Sicilian Meatloaf includes Mediterranean flavors like herbs, olives, and sometimes cheese, making it unique.
Can I prepare Sicilian Meatloaf ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare it a day in advance and refrigerate before baking for easier meal prep.
How do I know when my meatloaf is done cooking?
Use a meat thermometer; it should reach an internal temperature of 160°F before it’s safe to eat.
Sicilian Meatloaf
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Sicilian meatloaf is a flavorful twist on the classic dish, combining ground beef and pork with aromatic herbs and spices for a rich, savory experience. This easy-to-make recipe brings the essence of Italian cuisine to your dining table, making it perfect for family dinners or potlucks. With its delightful aroma and juicy texture, each slice promises to transport you to Sicily with every bite. Enjoy it fresh out of the oven or repurposed in sandwiches throughout the week.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
- 1 lb ground pork
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (fresh or dried)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup ketchup or tomato sauce
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Sauté onions in olive oil until translucent (about 5 minutes).
- In a bowl, mix ground beef and pork with sautéed onions.
- Add breadcrumbs, eggs, Parmesan, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper; mix well.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf on a lined baking sheet.
- Spread ketchup or tomato sauce on top.
- Bake for 60 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (120g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
