Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
  • 1 lb ground pork
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp cracked black pepper
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup yellow onion, finely diced
  • 2 tbsp fresh Italian parsley, chopped
  • 1 tbsp dried Italian seasoning
  • 1 tsp granulated sugar
  • 3/4 cup Italian bread crumbs
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup whole milk
  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, minced garlic, diced onion, chopped parsley, dried Italian seasoning, granulated sugar, Italian bread crumbs, beaten eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, and whole milk.
  2. Gently fold the mixture together using your hands or a spatula until just combined. Do not overwork the meat to ensure a tender texture.
  3. Press the meat mixture firmly but gently into a 9x5 inch loaf pan, ensuring the surface is level.
  4. Spread the marinara sauce in a thick, even layer across the top of the loaf, then cover with the shredded mozzarella cheese.
  5. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 60–70 minutes, or until a meat thermometer reads 160°F (71°C) in the center and the cheese is golden-brown.
  6. Remove from the oven and let the meatloaf rest undisturbed for 10 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.