Sicilian Meatloaf

Sicilian Meatloaf is an incredible dish that combines hearty flavors with a unique twist. This delightful comfort food is not only perfect for family dinners but also impressive enough for entertaining guests. With layers of savory chicken ham, fresh basil, and melted mozzarella, this Sicilian Meatloaf stands out from traditional meatloaf recipes. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare while delivering a satisfying meal for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of fresh herbs, cheeses, and spices creates a mouthwatering dish.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, you can whip this up even on busy nights.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with pasta or zucchini noodles for a comforting meal or as a showstopper at gatherings.
• Great for Meal Prep: This recipe makes enough to feed a crowd or have leftovers for the week.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the rich flavors and hearty texture.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes all the difference when preparing Sicilian Meatloaf. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Skillet
• Parchment paper
• Baking sheet
• Aluminum foil

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining all ingredients thoroughly for even flavor distribution.
• Skillet: Allows you to sauté vegetables, bringing out their natural sweetness before mixing into the meatloaf.
• Parchment paper: Helps in rolling the meatloaf easily without sticking, ensuring a smooth process.
• Baking sheet: Provides stability while baking and catches any drippings.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
• 1 small red onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 lbs ground beef
• ¾ cup Italian style breadcrumbs
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
• 2 eggs
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Filling Ingredients

• About ¼ lb deli chicken ham
• 12–15 large fresh basil leaves
• 1 ¼ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Serving Suggestions

• Marinara sauce
• Cooked pasta or zucchini noodles, if desired

How to Make Sicilian Meatloaf

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures a perfectly cooked meatloaf.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

• Heat olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat.
• Add finely chopped onion and red bell pepper to the skillet.
• Sauté for about 5 minutes until the onions become translucent.
• Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Add ground beef, Italian breadcrumbs, grated parmesan cheese, eggs, tomato paste, salt, black pepper, parsley, and the cooled vegetable mixture.
2. Mix everything together using your hands until well combined.

Step 4: Form the Meatloaf

• Lay a large sheet of parchment paper on your counter.
• Place the meat mixture in the center.
• Pat it out to form a rectangle about 8×15.

Step 5: Add Filling Layers

Top the rectangle with:
1. A layer of chicken ham,
2. A layer of whole basil leaves,
3. A layer of shredded mozzarella cheese, leaving a 1-inch border all around.

Step 6: Roll It Up

Starting at one end (the 8-inch side), roll up the meatloaf jelly roll style using parchment paper to guide you:
1. Press down on the top seam to seal it.
2. Press ends together to seal as well.

Step 7: Bake the Meatloaf

Place your rolled meatloaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper:
1. Bake in preheated oven for 1 hour.
2. After baking, remove from oven and tent with aluminum foil.
3. Allow resting for about 10 minutes before slicing.

Step 8: Serve Your Dish

Slice your Sicilian Meatloaf and serve it over cooked pasta or zucchini noodles if desired. Top with marinara sauce for an extra burst of flavor! Enjoy this hearty dish that brings comfort and joy to every meal!

How to Serve Sicilian Meatloaf

Sicilian Meatloaf is a versatile dish that can be served in many delightful ways. Whether you prefer it over pasta or paired with fresh vegetables, there are plenty of options to enhance your meal.

Over Pasta

• Serve slices of Sicilian Meatloaf on a bed of cooked pasta, such as spaghetti or fettuccine, for a hearty Italian meal.
• Drizzle marinara sauce over the meatloaf and pasta to add a burst of flavor.

With Zucchini Noodles

• For a lighter option, place the meatloaf on zucchini noodles. This gluten-free alternative provides a fresh taste and complements the rich flavors of the meatloaf.

As a Sandwich

• Slice the meatloaf and place it in a crusty Italian roll for a delicious meatloaf sandwich. Add a slice of cheese and some marinara for extra zest.

Accompanied by Salad

• Serve with a simple green salad tossed in vinaigrette to balance the richness of the meatloaf. A mix of arugula and cherry tomatoes works wonderfully.

With Garlic Bread

• Pairing Sicilian Meatloaf with warm garlic bread creates a comforting side that everyone will love. Use it to soak up any extra sauce on your plate.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish each serving with chopped fresh parsley or basil for an aromatic touch that enhances presentation and flavor.

How to Perfect Sicilian Meatloaf

Getting your Sicilian Meatloaf just right can elevate your dining experience. Here are some tips to ensure it turns out perfectly every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will enhance flavor and texture, making your meatloaf more vibrant.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining ingredients, mix gently to avoid toughening the meat. A light hand keeps it tender.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the meatloaf to rest after baking helps retain juices, making each slice moist and flavorful.
• Check Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your meatloaf reaches 160°F (70°C) for safe consumption.
• Experiment with Fillings: Try different cheeses or cured meats inside the roll for unique variations that keep things interesting.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the meat mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight. This allows flavors to meld beautifully before baking.

Best Side Dishes for Sicilian Meatloaf

Sicilian Meatloaf pairs well with various sides that complement its robust flavors. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting pairing.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized add color and nutrition to your plate.
3. Italian Green Beans: Sautéed green beans with olive oil, garlic, and lemon zest provide freshness and crunch.
4. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing offers a zesty contrast to the richness of the meatloaf.
5. Risotto: Creamy risotto flavored with parmesan can serve as an elegant side that enhances the meal’s Italian essence.
6. Polenta: Soft polenta topped with marinara is an excellent base that rounds out this traditional dish beautifully.
7. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and brightness, balancing out the hearty meatloaf flavors.
8. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted until tender provide natural sweetness and nutrition alongside savory dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Sicilian Meatloaf, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes to watch for:

• Skipping the sauté step: Failing to sauté the vegetables can lead to a bland meatloaf. Always cook the onions and bell peppers until they are soft and fragrant for maximum flavor.
• Not using enough seasoning: Meatloaf can be dull without proper seasoning. Be sure to measure out salt and pepper, and consider adding other herbs and spices to enhance the taste.
• Overmixing the meat: Mixing too much can make the meatloaf tough. Combine ingredients just until they hold together for a tender texture.
• Ignoring resting time: Skipping the resting period after baking can result in a crumbly meatloaf. Allow it to rest for 10 minutes before slicing for better slices.
• Using low-quality ingredients: Cheap ground beef or stale breadcrumbs can impact flavor. Opt for fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Ensure the meatloaf is completely cooled before sealing it in containers.

Freezing Sicilian Meatloaf

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 3 months.
• For whole meatloaf, wrap it well and place it in a freezer-safe bag.

Reheating Sicilian Meatloaf

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place slices on a baking sheet covered with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate with a cover. Heat slices on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth, cover, and heat slices until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Sicilian Meatloaf?

Sicilian Meatloaf is an Italian-inspired dish made with ground beef mixed with flavorful ingredients like vegetables, cheese, and herbs. It’s rolled up with layers of ham and basil.

Can I customize my Sicilian Meatloaf?

Yes! You can customize your meatloaf by adding different cheeses or vegetables based on your preference. Try using spinach or even different types of cheese for variety.

How long does it take to make Sicilian Meatloaf?

The total time is approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes including prep time (30 minutes) and cooking time (1 hour).

What should I serve with Sicilian Meatloaf?

Sicilian Meatloaf pairs well with marinara sauce over cooked pasta or zucchini noodles. A side salad also complements this dish nicely.

Final Thoughts

Sicilian Meatloaf is not only delicious but also versatile enough to impress guests or satisfy family dinners. Feel free to customize the ingredients according to your taste preferences! Whether you stick to the classic recipe or add your own flair, this dish will surely become a favorite at your table.

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Sicilian Meatloaf

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

Sicilian Meatloaf is a delightful twist on a classic dish, combining savory ground beef with layers of Italian ham, fresh basil, and gooey mozzarella. This hearty comfort food is not only perfect for family dinners but also makes an impressive centerpiece for gatherings. The balance of flavors from the herbs and cheese ensures each bite is mouthwatering. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, making it a great option for busy weeknights or meal prep. Serve it over pasta or zucchini noodles topped with marinara sauce to elevate your dining experience. Every slice promises warmth and satisfaction, sure to become a favorite at your table.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 lbs ground beef
• 1 small red onion
• 1 red bell pepper
• 2 cloves garlic
• ¾ cup Italian breadcrumbs
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
• 2 eggs
• ¼ lb deli chicken ham
• Fresh basil leaves
• 1 ¼ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Sauté chopped onion and bell pepper in olive oil until soft; add minced garlic and cool.
3. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, eggs, tomato paste, sautéed vegetables, salt, black pepper, and parsley.
4. Form into an 8"x15" rectangle on parchment paper. Layer with chicken ham, basil leaves, and mozzarella cheese.
5. Roll tightly using parchment paper and seal edges.
6. Bake on a lined baking sheet for 1 hour; rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 150g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 110mg