This Italian Meatloaf Sandwich transforms classic comfort food into a handheld masterpiece. The dense, flavorful loaf combines ground beef and pork with herbs, Parmesan, and a rich tomato-soaked breadcrumb binder. It is baked until tender, then topped with melted mozzarella for a gooey finish. Served on split Italian rolls, each sandwich is loaded with slices of the savory loaf and crowned with sweet, caramelized sautéed bell peppers and onions. This dish is perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or when you crave a hearty, satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug. It pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or roasted potatoes.
Italian Meatloaf Sandwich
Description
This Italian Meatloaf Sandwich transforms classic comfort food into a handheld masterpiece. The dense, flavorful loaf combines ground beef and pork with herbs, Parmesan, and a rich tomato-soaked breadcrumb binder. It is baked until tender, then topped with melted mozzarella for a gooey finish. Served on split Italian rolls, each sandwich is loaded with slices of the savory loaf and crowned with sweet, caramelized sautéed bell peppers and onions. This dish is perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or when you crave a hearty, satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug. It pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or roasted potatoes.Ingredients
Directions
-
Preheat the oven to 350ðF (175ðC).
-
Oil a 9x5x3 inch loaf pan and set aside.
-
In a small bowl, soak the bread crumbs in 2/3 cup of the tomato sauce until the liquid is fully absorbed.
-
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, beaten egg, minced garlic, grated Parmesan, salt, pepper, and chopped basil.
-
Add the soaked bread crumbs to the meat mixture and mix gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the loaf tender.
-
Pack the meat mixture firmly into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top.
-
Bake for 45 minutes.
-
Remove from the oven, pour off any accumulated drippings, and spoon the remaining 1/3 cup of tomato sauce over the top of the loaf.
-
Sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce.
-
Return to the oven and bake for 10 minutes longer, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
-
While the meatloaf bakes, heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
-
Add the sliced onions and bell peppers to the skillet.
-
Sauté the vegetables for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are wilted and tender-crisp.
-
Season the peppers and onions lightly with salt and pepper to taste.
-
Let the meatloaf rest in the pan for 10 minutes before removing it.
-
Invert the meatloaf onto a cutting board and slice into 6 even portions.
-
Split the Italian rolls and warm them briefly in the oven or toaster.
-
Place a slice of meatloaf on each roll bottom and top with a generous portion of the sautéed peppers and onions.
-
Serve immediately while warm.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 177.0kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 2.2g4%
- Saturated Fat 0.4g2%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 581.4mg25%
- Total Carbohydrate 32.6g11%
- Dietary Fiber 2.5g10%
- Sugars 5.1g
- Protein 6.2g13%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.