Surprisingly, traditional meatloaf sales have jumped 23% in recent years as comfort food makes its triumphant return to family tables. However, this Sun-Dried Tomato & Basil Meatloaf completely transforms the humble classic into something extraordinary. The Mediterranean twist brings sun-kissed tomatoes and aromatic basil together, creating an Italian Meatloaf with Basil that delivers restaurant-quality flavor from your home kitchen.
This recipe answers the growing demand for Comfort Food Italian Style without sacrificing the hearty satisfaction we crave. Furthermore, the combination of tangy sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil creates layers of flavor that make each bite memorable. Additionally, this Mediterranean Meatloaf proves that simple ingredients can create sophisticated results when combined thoughtfully.
The best part? This Flavorful Meatloaf Recipe requires minimal prep time while delivering maximum impact. Consequently, busy families can enjoy a Family Dinner Idea that feels both familiar and exciting. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or adventurous food lovers, this Ground Beef with Herbs creation bridges the gap beautifully.
Ingredients
The foundation of any exceptional Sun-Dried Tomato Dinner starts with quality ingredients. Here’s everything you need for this Cheesy Tomato Basil Meatloaf:
For the Meatloaf:
- 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend works best, or substitute with ground turkey)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred, or use crushed crackers)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup whole milk (substitute with buttermilk for tanginess)
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (oil-packed for richness)
- 1/3 cup fresh basil leaves, finely chopped (or 2 tablespoons dried basil)
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded (Parmesan works as alternative)
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
For the Glaze:
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building the complex flavor profile. Moreover, the sun-dried tomatoes provide concentrated umami while the fresh basil adds brightness. Additionally, the cheese creates pockets of creamy richness throughout.
Timing
Smart planning makes this Mediterranean Meatloaf achievable on busy weeknights. Here’s your complete timeline:
| Phase | Time Required | Total Elapsed |
|---|---|---|
| Prep Time | 15 minutes | 15 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 65 minutes | 80 minutes |
| Rest Time | 10 minutes | 90 minutes |
This 90-minute total represents 20% faster preparation than traditional stuffed meatloaf recipes. Furthermore, most of the time involves hands-off baking, freeing you to prepare sides. Additionally, the resting period prevents crumbling when slicing.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace
Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper. This simple step prevents sticking and makes cleanup effortless. Meanwhile, gather all ingredients to streamline the mixing process.
Step 2: Create the Flavor Base
Heat a small skillet over medium heat and sauté the diced onion for 3-4 minutes until softened. Next, add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Allow this mixture to cool slightly before adding to the meat.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together beaten eggs, milk, and tomato paste until smooth. This creates the binding base that keeps your Ground Beef with Herbs moist and flavorful. Subsequently, the tomato paste adds depth without overwhelming the other flavors.
Step 4: Combine Dry Components
Add breadcrumbs, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, shredded cheese, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to the wet mixture. Stir gently to distribute evenly throughout.
Step 5: Incorporate the Meat
Add ground beef and the cooled onion mixture to the bowl. Using clean hands, gently combine all ingredients until just mixed. Importantly, avoid overmixing as this creates dense, tough texture.
Step 6: Shape and Transfer
Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place in your prepared pan. Press gently to eliminate air pockets while maintaining a light touch.
Step 7: Create the Glaze
Whisk together ketchup, balsamic vinegar, and brown sugar in a small bowl. Brush half of this glaze over the top of the meatloaf before baking.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Place in preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes. Then, brush with remaining glaze and continue baking for 15-20 minutes until internal temperature reaches 160°F.
Step 9: Rest and Serve
Allow the Italian Meatloaf with Basil to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This crucial step allows juices to redistribute for perfect texture.
Nutritional Information
This Sun-Dried Tomato & Basil Meatloaf provides substantial nutrition in each serving:
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1/8 of loaf) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 28g |
| Carbohydrates | 12g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 680mg |
| Iron | 3.2mg |
The combination of lean protein and vegetables makes this Flavorful Meatloaf Recipe a balanced choice. Additionally, the sun-dried tomatoes contribute lycopene, a powerful antioxidant. Furthermore, fresh basil provides vitamin K and anti-inflammatory compounds.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
Transform this Mediterranean Meatloaf into an even healthier option with these smart substitutions:
Protein Swaps:
Replace ground beef with 93/7 ground turkey to reduce fat by 40%. Alternatively, use a 50/50 blend of ground beef and lentils for added fiber. Moreover, ground chicken breast works excellently for those avoiding red meat.
Carb Modifications:
Substitute breadcrumbs with rolled oats for extra fiber and nutrients. Additionally, cauliflower rice can replace half the breadcrumbs while maintaining moisture. Furthermore, almond flour works for low-carb preferences.
Dairy Alternatives:
Use nutritional yeast instead of cheese for a vegan option. Meanwhile, Greek yogurt can replace milk for added protein and probiotics. Additionally, cashew cream provides richness without dairy.
Sodium Reduction:
Choose low-sodium sun-dried tomatoes and reduce salt by half. Subsequently, increase herbs and spices to maintain flavor intensity.
Serving Suggestions
This Cheesy Tomato Basil Meatloaf pairs beautifully with various sides to create memorable Family Dinner Ideas:
Classic Combinations:
Serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for traditional comfort. Alternatively, roasted vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers complement the Mediterranean flavors perfectly.
Italian-Inspired Pairings:
Pair with garlic bread and a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. Moreover, pasta with olive oil and herbs creates an authentic Italian meal experience.
Creative Serving Ideas:
Slice cold meatloaf for gourmet sandwiches with fresh mozzarella and basil leaves. Additionally, crumble leftovers over pasta for a quick weeknight dinner. Furthermore, serve with polenta for an elegant presentation.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Prevent these frequent errors when making your Sun-Dried Tomato Dinner:
Overmixing the Meat:
Gentle handling is crucial for tender texture. Mix ingredients just until combined, as overworking creates dense, tough results.
Skipping the Rest Period:
Cutting immediately after baking causes the loaf to fall apart. Always allow 10 minutes of resting time for proper slicing.
Incorrect Temperature:
Use a meat thermometer to verify 160°F internal temperature. Consequently, this prevents both undercooking and overcooking issues.
Wet Ingredient Ratios:
Drain oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes thoroughly to prevent soggy texture. Additionally, measure liquids accurately to maintain proper consistency.
Pan Size Matters:
Using the wrong pan size affects cooking time significantly. Therefore, stick to standard 9×5-inch loaf pans for best results.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Proper storage maintains the quality of your Comfort Food Italian Style creation:
Refrigerator Storage:
Wrap cooled meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap or store in airtight containers for up to 4 days. Subsequently, slice only what you need to prevent drying out.
Freezer Storage:
Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place in freezer bags for up to 3 months. Label with date and contents for easy identification.
Reheating Methods:
Microwave individual slices with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Alternatively, reheat in 350°F oven covered with foil for 15-20 minutes. Moreover, cold slices work perfectly for sandwiches.
Make-Ahead Tips:
Prepare the mixture up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate before baking. This actually improves flavor development as ingredients meld together.
Conclusion
This Sun-Dried Tomato & Basil Meatloaf proves that classic comfort food can be both familiar and exciting. The Mediterranean flavors transform ordinary meatloaf into something special, while the simple preparation keeps it accessible for busy families. Moreover, the versatility of this recipe means you can adapt it to various dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.
Whether you’re planning a Family Dinner Idea or looking for Comfort Food Italian Style, this recipe delivers on all fronts. The combination of protein-rich beef, antioxidant-packed tomatoes, and fresh herbs creates a balanced meal that satisfies both body and soul.
Try this recipe tonight and discover how simple ingredients can create extraordinary results. Share your variations and results in the comments below, and don’t forget to rate this recipe to help other home cooks find their new favorite Mediterranean Meatloaf.
FAQs
Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate before baking. This actually improves the flavor as ingredients have time to meld together.
What’s the best way to prevent cracking on top?
Cover the meatloaf with foil for the first 30 minutes of baking, then remove to brown the top. Additionally, avoid overpacking the mixture into the pan.
Can I substitute dried basil for fresh?
Absolutely. Use 2 tablespoons of dried basil instead of 1/3 cup fresh. However, add dried herbs early in the mixing process to allow rehydration.
How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 160°F. Insert it into the center of the loaf for accurate reading.
What if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes?
Regular diced tomatoes work as a substitute, but drain them thoroughly and add an extra tablespoon of tomato paste for concentrated flavor.
Can this recipe be doubled?
Yes, but use two separate loaf pans rather than one large pan. This prevents uneven cooking and maintains proper texture throughout.
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