Italian Meatloaf

This is best made in an actual meatloaf pan, so that the grease can drain in the bottom of the pan.  An actual meatloaf pan is larger than a bread-loaf pan, too. You will have to pack the meat in there. If it doesn't all fit, you can form what doesn't fit into a smaller, free-form loaf and bake separately. (So far, I've only made it in a bread-loaf pan, but I do plan to purchase a meatloaf pan, so that the grease will drain on the bottom.) Of coarse, it would not take as long to bake as the larger loaf - just watch the time and take out of the oven, when done. This is very good, and flavorful!

Printable Recipe


2 1/2 pounds ground beef
4 slices bacon (leave raw and chop into pieces - partially freeze first, to make chopping it easier)
1 1/2 cups Italian bread crumbs
1 cup tomato sauce
1 cup diced, seeded tomato
1 cup diced green peppers
1 cup diced onions
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
2 eggs
1/3 cup chopped fresh parsley
2 tsp beef bouillon granules
1/2 tsp garlic salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp tried basil leaves
1/2 tsp dried oregano leaves

Topping
1/2 - 1 cup ketchup


Spray a meatloaf pan with cooking spray and set aside. In a large bowl, combine all the ingredients, except for the ketchup and mix until combined. Press the meat into the loaf pan and cover with the ketchup. Cover with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350 degrees for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 40 - 60 minutes, or until cooked all the way through and top is nicely browned.