Hello, welcome to my beautiful world! My name is Prisca Bush. I am a food lover; I enjoy writing about my favorite recipes.

Introduction

I’ve always had a soft spot for hearty, home-cooked meals that fill both your stomach and your soul—the kind that make your kitchen smell incredible and bring everyone to the table without a word. Growing up, my family loved both Italian comfort food and the classic American meatloaf, so one day, I decided to blend the two.

The result? This Meatloaf Brasciole Recipe—a mouthwatering combination of traditional meatloaf and Italian-style brasciole, rolled up with cheese, herbs, and savory filling, then baked in a rich tomato sauce until tender and bursting with flavor.

The Meatloaf Brasciole Recipe is the kind of dish that looks impressive but feels like home. Whether you’re cooking for Sunday dinner, a family gathering, or meal prep for the week, this Meatloaf Brasciole Recipe delivers big-time comfort with an elegant touch.

Once you try it, you’ll never look at ordinary meatloaf the same way again.

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Meatloaf Brasciole Recipe (2025)

Ingredients for Meatloaf Brasciole Recipe

This Meatloaf Brasciole Recipe serves about 6 people and uses simple, flavorful ingredients that are easy to find.

For the Meatloaf Mixture:

1 ½ lbs ground beef (80/20 works best for moisture)
½ lb ground pork (adds richness and flavor)
¾ cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 large eggs
½ cup milk
3 cloves garlic, minced
½ small onion, finely grated or minced
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Filling:

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup fresh spinach leaves (or use thawed frozen spinach, well-drained)
4–6 slices of provolone or deli ham (optional, but delicious)
1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Sauce:

2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)
1 tablespoon fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

How to Make Meatloaf Brasciole Recipe

This Meatloaf Brasciole Recipe looks impressive, but it’s actually quite simple to prepare. Just follow these steps for perfect results every time.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare the Meat Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, eggs, milk, garlic, onion, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until just combined. Don’t overmix—that can make the meatloaf dense. You want it tender and juicy.

Step 3: Shape and Flatten the Meat

Lay out a large piece of parchment paper or plastic wrap on your counter. Place the meat mixture on top and flatten it into a rectangle, about ½-inch thick and roughly 10×12 inches in size.

This will be the “sheet” that you roll up with the filling.

Step 4: Add the Filling

Drizzle a bit of olive oil over the flattened meat.

Layer the spinach leaves evenly over the top, followed by slices of provolone or ham if using. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly across the surface.

Be sure to leave about a ½-inch border along the edges to make rolling easier.

Step 5: Roll It Up

Using the parchment paper or plastic wrap to help, carefully roll the meatloaf from the short end—just like a jelly roll—into a tight log.

Pinch the edges and ends to seal in the filling. Transfer it gently to your prepared baking dish, seam side down.

Step 6: Add Sauce and Bake

Pour about half of the marinara sauce over the top of the meatloaf roll. Spread it evenly so it’s well-coated.

Bake uncovered for 50–60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the top is golden and bubbling.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Once baked, remove from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

This resting time allows the juices to redistribute—giving you tender, sliceable meatloaf that holds its shape beautifully.

Warm the remaining marinara sauce and spoon it over each serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, and serve!

How to Serve Meatloaf Brasciole Recipe

This Meatloaf Brasciole Recipe is so hearty and flavorful that it can stand on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with classic Italian sides.

Over pasta: Serve thick slices over spaghetti or fettuccine for a full Italian meal.
With mashed potatoes: The creamy potatoes balance the rich tomato sauce perfectly.
With roasted veggies: Try roasted broccoli, zucchini, or bell peppers.
With garlic bread: Perfect for soaking up that extra marinara sauce.
With salad: A crisp green salad with balsamic vinaigrette adds freshness.

And if you’re serving guests, a glass of red wine like Chianti or Merlot is the perfect finishing touch.

Tips for the Best Meatloaf Brasciole Recipe

Don’t overmix the meat. Mix gently until combined to keep the texture tender.
Use a mix of beef and pork. It creates the perfect flavor and moisture balance.
Drain excess moisture from the spinach. If you’re using frozen spinach, squeeze it dry to avoid sogginess.
Seal the edges tightly. This prevents the cheese from leaking out as it bakes.
Let it rest before slicing. This step ensures juicy, beautiful slices that don’t fall apart.
Use a thermometer. Meatloaf should reach 160°F for safe, juicy results.
Double the sauce. You’ll never regret having extra marinara for serving.

Variations to Try

The beauty of this Meatloaf Brasciole Recipe is how customizable it is. You can easily tweak it to fit your tastes or dietary needs.

1. Classic Italian Style

Add chopped prosciutto or pancetta to the filling for extra richness and authentic Italian flavor.

2. Spinach and Ricotta Version

Spread a thin layer of ricotta cheese before adding the spinach — creamy, dreamy perfection.

3. Mozzarella-Stuffed Brasciole

Use whole mozzarella slices in the center for a gooey, cheesy core that melts as it bakes.

4. Spicy Kick

Add crushed red pepper flakes or chopped Calabrian chilies to the meat mixture for heat.

5. Mediterranean Twist

Swap spinach for chopped sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese.

6. Gluten-Free Option

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure your marinara sauce is gluten-free.

7. Low-Carb Version

Skip the breadcrumbs and use grated Parmesan and almond flour as a binder.

FAQs

1. Can I make this Meatloaf Brasciole Recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the meatloaf brasciole a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it. When ready to cook, just bake as directed—it may need an extra 5–10 minutes of baking time.

2. Can I freeze it?

Absolutely. You can freeze the meatloaf raw (before baking) or cooked. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking or reheating.

3. What’s the best meat to use?

A combination of ground beef and pork gives the best flavor and texture. You can also use turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

4. Can I make it without cheese?

Yes, but the cheese adds moisture and richness. If skipping dairy, add a bit more olive oil to the filling for balance.

5. How do I know it’s cooked through?

Use an instant-read thermometer. When the center reaches 160°F (71°C), it’s perfectly done.

6. What sauce should I use?

A good-quality marinara or tomato basil sauce works best. Homemade sauce adds a fresh touch, but store-bought is perfectly fine.

7. Can I use all beef instead of pork?

Yes, but it might be slightly leaner and less juicy. If using only beef, choose 80/20 or add a tablespoon of olive oil for moisture.

8. Can I make mini versions?

Definitely! Roll smaller portions of the meat mixture into individual mini brasciole rolls. Bake for about 25–30 minutes.

9. How should I store leftovers?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

10. Can I serve this Meatloaf Brasciole Recipe for special occasions?

Absolutely. This dish looks beautiful when sliced, making it perfect for holidays, dinner parties, or Sunday family dinners.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

(Based on 6 servings)

Calories: ~480
Protein: 38g
Fat: 28g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 2g
Sodium: 740mg

Nutritional values will vary depending on ingredients and portion sizes.

Final Thoughts

There’s a reason why this Meatloaf Brasciole Recipe has become one of my favorite comfort food dishes. It combines the best of both worlds—the familiar coziness of a classic meatloaf with the bold, rich flavors of traditional Italian cooking.

When you slice into it and see those beautiful spirals of melted cheese and tender spinach inside, it’s pure magic. It’s the kind of meal that makes people stop mid-bite and say, “Wow, what is this?” —and you get to proudly say, “It’s my homemade meatloaf brasciole.”

Whether you serve it for Sunday dinner, a cozy date night, or a family celebration, this Meatloaf Brasciole Recipe is guaranteed to impress. It’s hearty, flavorful, comforting, and a true showstopper right from your oven.

So go ahead—roll up your sleeves, roll up your meatloaf, and make something unforgettable tonight.

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