Skillet Italian Meat Loaf
A hearty skillet Italian meat loaf with savory flavors, topped with tangy ketchup gravy. Perfect for a comforting family meal or casual dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wet the bread and squeeze out excess water by hand.
- Mix all ingredients together, crushing Italian seasoning between fingers. Then form large patties by hand.
- Put the patties in a large skillet and cook slowly until browned on both sides.
- Pour off excess grease.
- Mix 1 cup ketchup and 1 cup water.
- Pour the ketchup mixture over the meat; cover and let simmer for 30 to 40 minutes.
- Thicken the gravy with 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 cup water or use your own thickening.
Tips & Substitutions
For a moister meatloaf, consider adding grated zucchini or finely chopped bell peppers to the mixture. If you don't have Italian seasoning, a mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme can work well. Using fresh bread instead of dried can enhance the texture, and feel free to substitute the ground meat with turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Serving Suggestions
This Skillet Italian Meat Loaf pairs beautifully with a side of mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad. For a hearty meal, serve it alongside garlic bread or pasta tossed with marinara sauce. Consider complementing the dish with a simple cheese platter featuring Italian Cheese And Crackers for an appetizer.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the meatloaf in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to keep it moist, or microwave it in short intervals until warmed through. For longer storage, freeze portions wrapped tightly for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Skillet Italian Meat Loaf contains roughly 591 calories, with 67g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (133% of the Daily Value), iron (33% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1918mg per serving (83% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?
Absolutely! While ground beef is traditional, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute for a vegetarian option. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the meat you choose.
How can I make the meatloaf spicy?
To add some heat, incorporate chopped jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce into the mixture. You can also serve it with a spicy ketchup or sriracha on the side for an extra kick!
What can I serve with leftover meatloaf?
Leftover meatloaf makes for a delicious sandwich! Simply slice it and layer it with your favorite condiments, lettuce, and tomato. Alternatively, chop it up and use it in a pasta bake or serve it with roasted vegetables for a quick meal.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).