Meatloaf with Sausage is a hearty, flavorful twist on the classic meatloaf that combines ground beef with Italian sausage for a rich, savory taste. The addition of sausage adds extra moisture, spices, and depth of flavor, making this meatloaf incredibly tender and satisfying. Coated with a savory tomato glaze, this dish is perfect for a comforting family dinner or special occasion. It pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it takes a traditional comfort food and elevates it with the bold flavors of sausage and aromatic seasonings. The meatloaf is moist, tender, and bursting with flavor, while the glaze adds a subtle sweetness that perfectly balances the savory meat. It’s a dish that fills the home with a comforting aroma and brings everyone to the table.
Why This Is a Must-Try Dish
This is a must-try dish because it combines the best of two types of meat to create a meatloaf that is both juicy and flavorful. The balance of seasonings, texture, and glaze makes it far superior to a basic meatloaf. It’s easy to prepare yet impressive enough to serve for family dinners or gatherings.
Preparation Time, Cooking Time, Servings, and Nutrition
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6–8 servings
Approximate Calories: 400–450 calories per serving
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casing removed
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- ½ cup milk
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Glaze:
- ½ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
Cooking Directions
Mix meatloaf ingredients, shape into a loaf, brush with glaze, bake until cooked through, and let rest before slicing.
Step-by-Step Preparation Method
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking sheet or loaf pan with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, Italian sausage, breadcrumbs, diced onion, minced garlic, eggs, milk, Parmesan, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until evenly combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.
Step 3: Shape the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in the prepared pan.
Step 4: In a small bowl, mix together ketchup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and smoked paprika to make the glaze. Brush half of the glaze over the top of the meatloaf.
Step 5: Bake for 50–60 minutes, brushing with the remaining glaze halfway through cooking.
Step 6: Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should read 160°F (71°C).
Step 7: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing to retain juices.
How to Serve This Recipe
Serve slices of Meatloaf with Sausage warm with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a side salad. Drizzle any remaining glaze from the pan over the slices for extra flavor.
Recipe Tips
- Use Italian sausage with natural casing removed for easier mixing.
- Do not overmix the meat to avoid a dense loaf.
- Let the meatloaf rest before slicing to ensure it stays moist.
- Day-old breadcrumbs help absorb moisture without making the loaf soggy.
Variations
Cheesy Meatloaf: Add shredded mozzarella or cheddar inside the loaf for a gooey center.
Spicy Version: Use hot Italian sausage or add chili flakes to the mixture.
Turkey and Sausage Meatloaf: Replace ground beef with ground turkey for a lighter version.
Vegetable Meatloaf: Add finely diced bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots to increase nutrition.
BBQ Glazed Meatloaf: Substitute the ketchup glaze with your favorite BBQ sauce.
Freezing and Storage Time
Refrigerator Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
Freezer Storage: Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat slices in the oven at 160°C (320°F) until warmed through or microwave individually.
Special Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Loaf pan or baking sheet
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Small bowl for glaze
- Meat thermometer
- Parchment paper or aluminum foil
Conclusion
Meatloaf with Sausage is a comforting, flavorful, and hearty dish that elevates traditional meatloaf with the addition of savory sausage and a sweet-savory glaze. Easy to prepare yet impressive enough for family dinners or special occasions, it’s a satisfying meal that pairs beautifully with classic sides. This recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home for its taste, aroma, and crowd-pleasing appeal.
Meatloaf with Sausage
Meatloaf with Sausage is a hearty, flavorful twist on the classic meatloaf that combines ground beef with Italian sausage for a rich, savory taste.
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
For the Glaze:
Instructions
-
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking sheet or loaf pan with parchment paper.
-
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, Italian sausage, breadcrumbs, diced onion, minced garlic, eggs, milk, Parmesan, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until evenly combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.
-
Step 3: Shape the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in the prepared pan.
-
Step 4: In a small bowl, mix together ketchup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and smoked paprika to make the glaze. Brush half of the glaze over the top of the meatloaf.
-
Step 5: Bake for 50–60 minutes, brushing with the remaining glaze halfway through cooking.
-
Step 6: Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should read 160°F (71°C).
-
Step 7: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing to retain juices.
