Zesty Sicilian Meatloaf Recipe: A Taste of Italy at Home

Crafting a mouthwatering sicilian meatloaf demands passion and a sprinkle of culinary adventure.

Robust Mediterranean flavors dance through this hearty dish, promising to delight your senses.

Herbs and spices mingle with rich ground meat, creating a symphony of taste.

Generations of italian cooks have perfected this classic comfort food, passing down secrets from kitchen to kitchen.

Fresh ingredients transform an ordinary meal into an extraordinary experience.

Each bite tells a story of tradition and warmth.

You’ll want to gather around the table and savor every delicious moment of this comforting masterpiece.

Change It Up With Sicilian Meatloaf Styles

• Vegetarian Meatloaf: Replace ground beef with lentils, mushrooms, and quinoa for a protein-packed plant-based version that maintains the original recipe's rich flavors and texture.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs, ensuring those with gluten sensitivities can still enjoy this hearty meal.
• Low-Carb Adaptation: Use ground turkey instead of beef, replace breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds, and skip the marinara sauce for a keto-friendly alternative that's equally satisfying.
• Mediterranean Fusion: Incorporate feta cheese instead of mozzarella, add chopped kalamata olives, and use lamb meat for a Greek-inspired variation that brings new depth to the classic Sicilian recipe.

Best Sides For Sicilian Meatloaf

• Pair with Bold Red Wine: Select a robust Nero d'Avola or Chianti to complement the rich, meaty flavors of the Sicilian meatloaf, enhancing its savory profile with deep, fruity undertones.
• Create Crisp Side Salad: Prepare a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the meatloaf's richness, adding a fresh, zesty contrast that cleanses the palate between bites.
• Match with Roasted Vegetables: Serve herb-roasted Mediterranean vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers alongside the meatloaf, echoing the dish's Sicilian roots and providing a colorful, nutritious accompaniment.

How To Store Sicilian Meatloaf Right

• Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, ensuring it's completely cooled before sealing.
• Wrap individual slices or whole meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Place in freezer-safe container and freeze up to 3 months. Label with date for easy tracking.
• Cut cold meatloaf into slices. Place on microwave-safe plate, cover with damp paper towel. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking temperature to prevent drying out.
• Preheat oven to 325°F. Place meatloaf slices in baking dish, add splash of marinara sauce to maintain moisture.

Answers To Sicilian Meatloaf Questions

• What makes this meatloaf different from traditional meatloaf?

This Sicilian-style meatloaf features layers of prosciutto and mozzarella cheese rolled inside the meat mixture, creating a delicious surprise in every slice that sets it apart from classic American meatloaf.

• Can I use different types of meat for this recipe?

While the recipe calls for ground beef, you can substitute with ground turkey or a mix of ground meats like beef and pork to create your own variation while maintaining a similar texture.

• Do I need any special kitchen tools to make this meatloaf?

You’ll just need a large mixing bowl, baking dish, parchment paper or aluminum foil, and basic measuring tools. No specialized equipment is required to create this delicious meal.

Why Sicilian Meatloaf Hits The Spot

• Burst with Sicilian Flavors: Packed with authentic ingredients like prosciutto, mozzarella, and herbs that transport your taste buds straight to Italy's vibrant culinary landscape.
• Master Impressive Cooking Technique: Rolling the meatloaf creates a stunning presentation that looks like a professional chef prepared it, perfect for impressing family and dinner guests.
• Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Food: Combines familiar meatloaf concept with exciting Mediterranean twists, making it a guaranteed hit for both kids and adults who love hearty, cheesy meals.
• Simple Ingredient Versatility: Uses common kitchen staples and allows easy substitutions, ensuring anyone can create this delectable dish without complicated shopping trips.

All The Ingredients In Sicilian Meatloaf

• Ground Beef: A rich and flavorful foundation for the traditional Sicilian meatloaf.
• Eggs: Provide binding and moisture to the meat mixture.

• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a sharp and salty depth to the meatloaf's flavor profile.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Creates a creamy and melty interior when the meatloaf is rolled.

• Prosciutto, Salami: Adds a delicious Italian cured meat layer with intense flavor.

• Parsley, Garlic, Oregano: Classic Mediterranean herbs that provide aromatic and savory notes.
• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the overall taste of the meatloaf.

• Breadcrumbs: Help to hold the meatloaf together and provide a consistent texture.

• Marinara Sauce: A classic Italian sauce that adds moisture and rich tomato flavor.
• Olive Oil: Provides a beautiful glaze and helps prevent the meatloaf from drying out.

Steps To Cook Sicilian Meatloaf Perfectly

Step 1: Prepare Oven

Heat the oven to 350°F, creating the perfect warm environment for your meatloaf masterpiece.

Step 2: Create Meat Mixture

• Ground beef
• Breadcrumbs
• Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley
• Minced garlic
• Dried oregano
• Eggs
• Salt
• Black pepper

Blend thoroughly using your hands to ensure all ingredients are well incorporated.

Step 3: Layer Meat Base

Spread the meat mixture onto parchment paper, forming a rectangular shape approximately 1 inch thick with even edges.

Step 4: Add Flavorful Layers

• Thin prosciutto or salami slices
• Shredded mozzarella cheese

Distribute these ingredients evenly across the surface.

Step 5: Roll Meatloaf

Using the parchment paper as a guide, gently roll the meat from one end to the other, creating a tight cylindrical shape.

Step 6: Seal and Transfer

Move the rolled meatloaf to a baking dish, pinching the ends to prevent ingredients from escaping during cooking.

Step 7: Apply Finishing Touches

Brush the exterior with marinara sauce and drizzle olive oil to create a beautiful golden glaze.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Place in the preheated oven and cook for approximately 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.

Step 9: Rest and Stabilize

Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes after removing from the oven, helping juices redistribute.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy

Slice the meatloaf and serve with additional marinara sauce on the side for dipping.

Tips To Make Sicilian Meatloaf Even Better

• Seal Tightly for Maximum Flavor: Roll the meatloaf carefully to prevent ingredients from falling out, ensuring each slice is packed with delicious prosciutto and melted mozzarella.
• Choose Quality Meat Wisely: Select ground beef with a moderate fat content (around 80/20) to keep the meatloaf moist and flavorful without being too greasy.
• Boost Moisture with Gentle Mixing: Use your hands to combine ingredients gently, avoiding overmixing which can make the meatloaf tough and dense.
• Rest Before Serving: Allow the meatloaf to sit for 10 minutes after baking, letting juices redistribute and making each slice more tender and easier to cut.

Sicilian Meatloaf Recipe

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4.8 from 35 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Rich Sicilian meatloaf brings Mediterranean flavors dancing across your plate with hearty, rustic charm. Fragrant herbs and robust ingredients promise a delicious journey through traditional Italian cuisine you’ll savor with each memorable bite.

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Ingredients

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Meat and Protein:

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 2 large eggs
• 4 slices prosciutto or salami

Cheese and Herbs:

• 1 cup mozzarella cheese (whole milk), shredded
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

Additional Ingredients:

• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup marinara sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (extra virgin)
• salt (to taste)
• pepper (to taste)

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Instructions

1. Heat oven to 350°F (175°C), preparing for a robust Sicilian-style meatloaf creation.
2. Blend ground beef with breadcrumbs, creating a uniform mixture that incorporates Parmesan cheese, parsley, minced garlic, oregano, eggs, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the meat mixture onto parchment paper, forming a rectangular base approximately 1 inch thick.
4. Arrange prosciutto or salami evenly across the meat surface, ensuring complete coverage.
5. Distribute shredded mozzarella cheese over the prosciutto layer, creating a rich internal filling.
6. Carefully roll the meatloaf using the parchment paper, maintaining a tight, compact shape to secure ingredients.
7. Position the rolled meatloaf in a baking dish, sealing the edges to prevent filling from escaping during cooking.
8. Generously coat the exterior with marinara sauce, drizzling olive oil to enhance flavor and create a glossy finish.
9. Roast in the preheated oven for 60 minutes, monitoring until internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
10. Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes, enabling juices to redistribute and ensuring a moist texture.
11. Slice and serve with additional marinara sauce, presenting a delectable Sicilian culinary experience.

Notes

• Ensure meat mixture is thoroughly mixed to distribute flavors evenly and prevent dry spots.
• Roll meatloaf tightly to maintain structural integrity and prevent filling from falling out during baking.
• Use a meat thermometer to guarantee precise internal temperature for food safety and optimal texture.
• Consider gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs for those with dietary restrictions.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Category: Dinner, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 650 mg
• Fat: 25 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 20 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Cholesterol: 120 mg