Italian Meatloaf (Basil + Tomatoes Inside – Girls Gone Grillin’ Style)

Italian Meatloaf (Basil + Tomatoes Inside – Girls Gone Grillin’ Style)

Now we’re talking —fresh basil + tomatoes inside the meat make this extra juicy, rich, and packed with real Italian flavor.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs ground beef (80/20)
• 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, finely chopped 
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (fresh, seeded OR well-drained canned) 
• 2 tbsp parsley (or 1 tbsp dried)
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
• 1–2 tbsp Girls Gone Grillin’ SPG with a Kiss of Onion
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Topping:

• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1–1½ cups shredded mozzarella
• Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

1. Prep the tomatoes (important)

If using fresh tomatoes—remove seeds and excess juice.

If using canned—drain really well.

This keeps your meatloaf from getting soggy.

2. Mix it up

Combine beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, parmesan, onion, garlic, basil, diced tomatoes, parsley, Italian seasoning, and SPG. Mix gently.

3. Shape

Form into a loaf and place in cast iron or on a lined pan.

4. Cook

Smoker/Grill: 275°F indirect for 1.5–2 hours

Oven: 350°F for about 1 hour

Cook to 155–160°F internal.

5. Sauce & cheese

Top with marinara and mozzarella. Finish cooking until 165°F and cheese is melted.

6. Rest & serve

Let it rest 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil.

Girls Gone Grillin’ Tips

Want it even richer? Add a spoon of tomato paste to the meat mix 

Mix a little Cherry Chipotle BBQ Sauce into the marinara for a sweet smoky kick

If it feels too wet, add a handful more breadcrumbs to balance it out