Name: Sicilian Meatloaf: A Flavorful Italian Classic Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 lb ground pork; ½ lb ground veal; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 onion, finely chopped; 1 bell pepper, finely chopped; 2 celery stalks, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 eggs; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 cup tomato sauce; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste

There is something irresistibly comforting about Sicilian Meatloaf: A Flavorful Italian Classic Recipe that makes it an all-time favorite for family dinners and special occasions alike. This dish brings together a harmonious blend of ground beef, pork, and veal enriched with fragrant herbs and fresh vegetables, all lovingly baked to perfection with a vibrant tomato sauce. Every bite bursts with authentic Italian flavor, capturing the heart and soul of Sicilian home cooking in one luscious meatloaf.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a rectangular base layer of raw ground meat mixed with herbs and red bits, spread out flat on brown parchment paper. On top of this meat layer is a thin layer of fresh dark green spinach leaves, evenly spread. Above the spinach is a layer of shredded white cheese sprinkled all over. A long cylindrical roll is partially formed by rolling the meat base over the layered spinach and cheese, showing a neat layering effect. The parchment paper rests on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Sicilian meatloaf is built on simple, essential ingredients chosen to balance flavor, texture, and color perfectly. Each element plays a vital role, from adding moisture with the vegetables to infusing aromatic notes with fresh herbs, resulting in a dish that’s both hearty and irresistibly fragrant.

Ground beef, pork, and veal: Combining these three meats creates depth of flavor and a tender texture that melts in your mouth.
Breadcrumbs: Help bind the meatloaf and keep it moist while adding a delicate structure.
Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds rich, savory umami that elevates every bite.
Onion, bell pepper, and celery: Sautéed vegetables bring sweetness, crunch, and a lovely color contrast to the meat.
Garlic: Heightens the savory profile with its unmistakable aromatic punch.
Eggs: The binding agents that hold the mixture together while enriching flavor.
Fresh parsley and basil: Offer fresh, herbaceous notes that brighten the meatloaf.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
Tomato sauce: Adds moisture and tangy richness when spread over the meatloaf before baking.
Olive oil: Used for sautéing vegetables and infusing a subtle fruity richness.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Sicilian Meatloaf: A Flavorful Italian Classic Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This sets the perfect environment for the meatloaf to bake evenly and develop its signature golden crust while remaining juicy inside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat, then add the finely chopped onion, bell pepper, and celery. Sauté these until they soften, about 5 to 7 minutes, which helps release their natural sweetness and tenderizes them. Toss in the garlic and cook for an additional minute to infuse the aroma without burning it—this step adds layers of flavor that make this Sicilian meatloaf truly spectacular.

Step 3: Mix the Meatloaf

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, pork, and veal with the sautéed vegetables, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, eggs, and fresh herbs—parsley and basil. Don’t forget to season well with salt and pepper. Mix everything gently to combine; overmixing can make the meatloaf dense, so handle it with care to keep it tender and moist.

Step 4: Shape and Bake

Transfer your mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a greased loaf pan. Shape it into a neat loaf, making sure it’s compact but not overly packed. Spread half of the flavorful tomato sauce over the top—this not only keeps the meatloaf moist but also caramelizes beautifully in the oven. Bake the meatloaf for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C), to ensure it’s perfectly cooked through.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Once out of the oven, let your Sicilian meatloaf rest for 10 to 15 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, keeping each slice juicy and tender. Serve it warm, spooning the remaining tomato sauce over the top for extra richness and tang. Your Sicilian Meatloaf: A Flavorful Italian Classic Recipe is now ready to be enjoyed!

How to Serve Sicilian Meatloaf: A Flavorful Italian Classic Recipe

A thick slice of rolled meatloaf with visible layers of light brown meat, white cheese, and green spinach inside sits slightly tilted in the center of a white plate. The meatloaf has a browned, textured crust with specks of herbs and small red pepper bits. Surrounding the meatloaf is a bright red chunky tomato sauce, sprinkled with grated cheese and pieces of chopped fresh green herbs. To the left side on the plate, there are curly yellowish spiralized vegetables lightly mixed with some sauce. The plate rests on a white marbled surface, with another plate blurred in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Simple garnishes like fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese can elevate the presentation and add a burst of fresh flavor. A light drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil just before serving also enhances the richness and adds a beautiful shine to your slices.

Side Dishes

Traditional Italian sides like garlicky sautéed spinach, creamy polenta, or a crisp arugula salad pair wonderfully with this meatloaf. Roasted potatoes or a rustic tomato and cucumber salad also complement its hearty, comforting profile beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special touch, serve slices of your Sicilian Meatloaf alongside grilled vegetables arranged artistically. Alternatively, layer slices in a warm ciabatta roll with melted provolone and some fresh greens for a delicious Italian-style sandwich that will wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Sicilian Meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the meatloaf has cooled completely before refrigerating to maintain its texture and flavor.

Freezing

This recipe freezes exceptionally well. Wrap the cooled meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, place slices in a baking dish, cover lightly with foil to retain moisture, and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, microwave on medium power in short bursts to avoid drying out the meat.

FAQs

Can I use just one type of ground meat?

While you can, the classic Sicilian Meatloaf: A Flavorful Italian Classic Recipe benefits from the mix of beef, pork, and veal, which creates a more complex texture and richer flavor. Using only one type might result in a denser or less flavorful loaf.

Is it necessary to sauté the vegetables first?

Yes, sautéing softens the vegetables, bringing out their sweetness and helping the meatloaf stay moist. Raw vegetables can release excess moisture during baking, potentially affecting texture.

Can I prepare this meatloaf ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can mix and shape the meatloaf a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate it. Just add the tomato sauce and bake it fresh when ready to serve to keep flavors vibrant.

What is the best way to bind the meat mixture?

Eggs and breadcrumbs are essential binders in this recipe; eggs help hold everything together while breadcrumbs absorb moisture, preventing the meatloaf from falling apart.

Can I add other herbs or spices?

Yes! While parsley and basil are traditional, feel free to experiment with oregano, thyme, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat. Just be mindful to keep the balance of flavors true to the recipe’s Italian roots.

Final Thoughts

There’s truly nothing like the warm, inviting charm of Sicilian Meatloaf: A Flavorful Italian Classic Recipe to bring loved ones together around the table. With its perfect balance of herbs, meats, and vegetables, this dish is sure to become a cherished favorite. Give it a try and enjoy a delicious slice of Sicily right at home!

Sicilian Meatloaf: A Flavorful Italian Classic Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need