It’s a simple recipe, yet it packs a punch of flavors. This sandwich is perfect for when you want to whip up something quick but still feel like you’ve put in the effort of a gourmet meal. I remember the first time I made this for my family; it was a chilly Sunday afternoon, and we were all craving something comforting but didn’t want to spend the whole day in the kitchen. This sandwich was the answer, and it has since become a staple in our household.
What makes this Italian Meatloaf Sandwich so special is the combination of textures and flavors. You get the crispiness from the garlic bread, the juiciness from the marinara-soaked meatloaf, and the gooey deliciousness from the melted cheeses. Topped with fresh basil, it’s a sandwich that’s bound to bring your taste buds alive!
So, whether you’ve got some meatloaf lingering in your fridge, or you’re just looking for a fresh spin on a classic sandwich, this recipe is a must-try. Trust me, once you’ve had a bite, it’ll become one of those go-to recipes you’ll want to make again and again. Let’s dive into how you can make this delightful Italian Meatloaf Sandwich yourself!
How to Make Italian Meatloaf Sandwich
Click here to get printable version
Ingredients:
- 1 (12-inch) frozen garlic bread loaf
- 2 slices of cooked meatloaf, about ½-inch thick
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 3 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese (about ¾ cup)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves, cut into thin strips
Directions:
- Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees. Adjust your oven rack so it’s approximately 6 inches from the broiler.
- Prepare the garlic bread as per the package instructions, ensuring it becomes golden and crispy.
- While your bread is baking, arrange the meatloaf slices in a small oven-safe dish and pour the marinara sauce over them.
- Once the oven reaches the desired temperature, bake the meatloaf with the sauce for 10 to 15 minutes until it’s heated through.
- Carefully take the dish out of the oven and switch your oven to the broiler setting.
- Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil. Place the bottom half of the garlic bread on the sheet.
- Spread half of the marinara sauce over the bread, and arrange the meatloaf slices on top, slightly overlapping each other.
- Pour the remaining sauce over the meatloaf, then sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over everything.
- Slide the baking sheet under the broiler and broil for 2 to 4 minutes until the cheese is melted and begins to brown.
- Once done, remove from the oven, sprinkle the basil on top, place the top half of the bread on the sandwich, slice it in half, and savor each bite!
Creative Substitutions to Suit Your Taste
If you’re out of an ingredient, don’t worry! You can swap mozzarella with provolone for a different cheese experience or use any sturdy bread if you can’t find garlic bread. Substitute marinara with pizza sauce for a spicier kick. For a vegetarian twist, use grilled vegetables instead of meatloaf.
Best Ways to Store Leftover Italian Meatloaf Sandwich
If you have leftovers, make sure they stay fresh by wrapping them tightly in aluminum foil or cling film. Store in the refrigerator and consume within two days. For a longer shelf life, consider freezing the sandwich, although the bread might lose some of its crispiness upon reheating.
Perfect Pairings for Italian Meatloaf Sandwich
This sandwich pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or a bowl of hearty minestrone soup for a complete meal. Add some pickled vegetables on the side for an extra zing. For drinks, a chilled glass of iced tea or a light red wine complements the flavors perfectly.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Italian Meatloaf Sandwich
To enhance the flavors, try adding roasted red peppers or sautéed mushrooms to the sandwich. Let the garlic bread cool slightly before assembling to avoid sogginess. If you prefer a spicy kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the cheese before broiling.
Adapting Italian Meatloaf Sandwich for Any Time of Year
In summer, add fresh tomato slices for extra freshness. During fall, consider incorporating roasted pumpkin slices. For winter, a sprinkle of nutmeg on the cheese adds warmth. In spring, add asparagus tips for a fresh and crunchy twist.
FAQs:
Can I use fresh meatloaf instead of leftover?
Yes, you can definitely use fresh meatloaf. Just ensure it’s fully cooked before following the rest of the directions. If it’s warm from the oven, you might need to adjust the baking time with sauce to avoid overcooking.
What if I don’t have basil?
If basil isn’t available, you can use fresh parsley or arugula for a bit of peppery flavor. Dried Italian herbs can also be a good alternative, although they won’t provide the fresh note that basil does.
Is there a gluten-free option for the garlic bread?
Absolutely! You can find gluten-free bread options at most grocery stores. Consider using a gluten-free baguette or any suitable gluten-free bread and add your own garlic butter for a similar effect.
Can this recipe be made ahead of time?
You can prepare the components ahead, but it’s best to assemble and broil the sandwich just before serving to maintain the bread’s crispiness and the cheese’s gooey texture. Reheating pre-assembled sandwiches may lead to sogginess.
What other cheeses can I use?
If mozzarella isn’t your cheese of choice, try fontina or gouda for a creamy melt. For a sharper taste, aged cheddar or asiago can be interesting options. Mixing a couple of different cheeses can also create a depth of flavor.
Can the sandwich be made vegetarian?
Yes, replace the meatloaf with a vegetarian loaf made from lentils or chickpeas. You can also use grilled eggplant or zucchini slices to create a hearty, plant-based alternative that still packs a flavorful punch.
Italian Meatloaf Sandwich
Equipment
- oven
- Oven-safe dish
- Rimmed baking sheet
Ingredients
- 1 12-inch frozen garlic bread loaf
- 2 slices cooked meatloaf about ½-inch thick
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 3 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese (about ¾ cup)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves cut into thin strips
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and reposition the oven rack to about 6 inches from the broiler.
- Prepare the garlic bread according to the instructions on the package, ensuring it becomes nicely toasted.
- While the garlic bread is baking, place the slices of meatloaf in a small oven-safe dish and cover them with marinara sauce.
- Once the oven is ready, bake the meatloaf with the sauce for about 10 to 15 minutes or until thoroughly heated.
- Once heated, carefully take the dish out of the oven and prepare to broil the sandwich.
- Prepare a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil and place the bottom half of the toasted garlic bread on it.
- Spread half of the marinara sauce over the garlic bread, then layer the meatloaf slices on top, overlapping as needed.
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the meatloaf slices and generously sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
- Place the baking sheet under the broiler and cook for 2 to 4 minutes, watching closely until the cheese melts and starts to brown.
- After broiling, remove the sandwich from the oven and add fresh basil on top. Cover with the other half of the garlic bread, slice, and serve!
