Pizza Meatloaf

Introduction

Pizza Meatloaf is the ultimate fusion dish that combines two beloved comfort foods: pizza and meatloaf. Juicy ground beef (or a mix of meats) is blended with Italian seasonings, mozzarella, Parmesan, and pizza sauce, then topped with gooey melted cheese and pepperoni slices. Every slice delivers the cozy comfort of meatloaf with the bold, cheesy, saucy flavor of pizza.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it brings the best of both worlds to the dinner table. Meatloaf can sometimes feel plain, but with pizza flavors baked in, it transforms into something exciting, family-friendly, and fun. The gooey cheese, tangy tomato sauce, and pepperoni topping make it feel like a treat while still being hearty and wholesome. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, especially for kids and picky eaters.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Brings a creative twist to classic meatloaf.
• Packed with familiar, comforting pizza flavors.
• Kid-friendly and fun for family dinners.
• Easily customizable with your favorite pizza toppings.
• Leftovers taste amazing reheated or turned into sandwiches.

Recipe Details

• Cuisine: American-Italian Fusion
• Course: Main Course
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 55 minutes – 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Servings: 6–8 slices
• Calories: ~370 kcal per serving

Ingredients

Meatloaf Base:

• 2 lbs ground beef (or mix of beef and pork)
• 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup pizza sauce (plus extra for topping)
• ½ medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

Topping:

• ½ cup pizza sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Pepperoni slices (or other toppings like mushrooms, bell peppers, or olives)
• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional garnish)

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Mix all meatloaf ingredients.
2. Shape into loaf, place in greased baking dish.
3. Bake 45 minutes, then add sauce, cheese, and pepperoni.
4. Bake until cheese melts and meatloaf is fully cooked.
5. Rest, slice, and serve hot.

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preheat Oven
   Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or baking dish.
2. Mix Meatloaf Base
   In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, mozzarella, Parmesan, pizza sauce, onion, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Shape and Bake
   Transfer mixture into loaf pan and shape into a firm loaf. Bake uncovered for 45 minutes.
4. Add Pizza Toppings
   Remove from oven, spread pizza sauce on top, sprinkle with mozzarella, and arrange pepperoni slices.
5. Finish Baking
   Bake an additional 10–15 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly and meatloaf reaches an internal temp of 160°F (71°C).
6. Rest & Slice
   Allow meatloaf to rest 10 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.

How to Serve

• Pair with garlic bread or breadsticks.
• Add a side salad or roasted vegetables for balance.
• Serve with extra pizza sauce for dipping.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Don’t overmix the meat—keeps loaf tender.
• Tent with foil if top browns too fast before center is cooked.
• Add chopped bell peppers or mushrooms inside for extra veggie goodness.
• Use part-skim mozzarella to reduce calories.

Variations

• Stuffed Pizza Meatloaf: Add a layer of cheese and pepperoni inside the loaf.
• BBQ Pizza Meatloaf: Replace pizza sauce with BBQ sauce.
• Veggie Pizza Meatloaf: Add spinach, olives, mushrooms, or zucchini.
• Supreme Pizza Meatloaf: Load it up with pepperoni, sausage, peppers, onions, and olives.
• Mini Pizza Meatloaves: Bake in a muffin tin for individual servings.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
• Freezer (Uncooked): Wrap tightly and freeze up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
• Freezer (Cooked): Freeze slices or whole loaf for 2 months. Reheat at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil until warm.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Loaf pan or baking dish
• Meat thermometer

FAQ

Q1: Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, but add extra cheese or breadcrumbs to keep it moist.

Q2: Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes—assemble the loaf, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Q3: Can I skip the pepperoni?
Absolutely—use your favorite pizza toppings or keep it simple with just cheese.

Q4: How do I prevent greasy meatloaf?
Use lean ground beef (85–90%) and drain excess fat halfway through baking if needed.

Conclusion

Pizza Meatloaf is a fun, family-friendly meal that combines the cheesy, saucy goodness of pizza with the hearty comfort of meatloaf. It’s easy, customizable, and perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. With endless topping options, you can make it your own—whether you prefer classic pepperoni or a loaded veggie version. If you love pizza and love meatloaf, this dish is a no-brainer must-try.