Learn to make classic Italian beef meatloaf with this easy recipe for a hearty family dinner.

Polpettone di Manzo: Classic Italian Beef Meatloaf Recipe

Discover the art of making a classic Italian beef meatloaf, a staple in Italian recipes, perfect for a family Sunday dinner. This hearty dish is renowned for its soft texture, thanks to the addition of potatoes and bread soaked in milk. Fresh parsley adds a delightful aromatic touch, reminiscent of homemade comfort.

Enhance your baked meatloaf with a few simple tricks: baste it with broth during cooking to keep it juicy, and don’t discard the flavorful juices left in the baking dish. Thicken these with a bit of cornstarch for a creamy, savory sauce to accompany each slice. Serve your baked beef meatloaf with classic roasted potatoes or sautéed seasonal vegetables for a lighter alternative, bringing the comforting aroma of home to your Sunday meal!

Explore More Meatloaf Variations:

• Stuffed Meatloaf
• Pan-cooked Meatloaf
• Meatloaf with Scamorza Cheese Center
• Soft Meatloaf

Ingredients

• 500g ground beef
• 200g potatoes
• 100g stale bread
• 100ml milk
• 1 egg
• 50g grated Parmesan cheese
• Parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Broth for basting
• Cornstarch for sauce

Instructions

1. Boil and mash the potatoes. Soak the stale bread in milk.
2. In a large bowl, mix the ground beef, mashed potatoes, soaked bread, egg, Parmesan, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish.
4. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 60 minutes, basting occasionally with broth.
5. Once cooked, remove the meatloaf and thicken the juices in the baking dish with cornstarch to create a sauce.
6. Serve the meatloaf in slices with the sauce and your choice of sides.

Total Time: 90 min

Cuisine: Italian