Get ready to transform your dinner table with a mouthwatering masterpiece that combines the irresistible flavors of ground beef and zesty pepperoni in one incredible loaf! This isn't just another meatloaf - it's a family recipe that promises to become your new go-to comfort food sensation. Imagine cutting into a perfectly seasoned, juicy loaf that's packed with Italian-inspired flavors and guaranteed to make everyone at the table ask for seconds!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup pepperoni, chopped
- 1 cup bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan with cooking spray or butter.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, chopped pepperoni, bread crumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, milk, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly using your hands or a wooden spoon until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan, gently pressing it down to create an even surface and compact the mixture.
- Shape the mixture into a uniform loaf, ensuring it fills the pan completely and has a smooth top.
- Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
- Remove the loaf from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and makes slicing easier.
- Carefully drain any excess fat from the pan before removing the loaf.
- Slice the pepperoni loaf into 1-inch thick servings and plate. Optionally, garnish with fresh parsley or additional grated Parmesan cheese.
Tips
- Mix ingredients gently to prevent the meat from becoming tough. Use your hands or a wooden spoon and mix just until combined.
- For extra flavor, consider adding some minced garlic or finely chopped onions to the meat mixture.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the loaf reaches the safe internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- Let the loaf rest after baking - this helps the juices redistribute, making each slice more moist and flavorful.
- If you want a crispier top, brush the loaf with a thin layer of tomato sauce or glaze during the last 15 minutes of baking.
- For a leaner version, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef while maintaining the delicious pepperoni flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 27g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Cholesterol: 95mg
