Grilled Italian-Style Meatloaf on the Arteflame Grill

Introduction

Italian-Style Meatloaf takes a classic meatloaf recipe and infuses it with Italian herbs, marinara, and a melty mozzarella center. Cooking it on the Arteflame grill adds a rich, smoky flavor that elevates this family favorite. Serve it with extra marinara and fresh basil for an Italian-inspired meal.

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 2 lbs ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
• 3/4 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional for stuffing)

For the Marinara Glaze:

• 1/2 cup marinara sauce
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Glaze

In a small bowl, combine the marinara sauce, tomato paste, balsamic vinegar, and red pepper flakes. Set aside.

Step 2: Mix the Italian Meatloaf Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, milk, diced onion, garlic, parsley, eggs, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing for a tender texture.

Step 3: Shape the Meatloaf

On a piece of heavy-duty foil, shape the meat mixture into a loaf. If stuffing with mozzarella, create a small indentation in the center, add the cheese, and fold the meat over to seal. Fold the foil edges up to keep the loaf contained.

Step 4: Fire Up the Arteflame Grill

Light the Arteflame grill using vegetable oil-soaked napkins and firewood. Preheat for about 20 minutes until the center grate is very hot, and the surrounding cooktop is at medium heat.

Step 5: Grill the Meatloaf

Place the foil-wrapped meatloaf on the flat cooktop of the grill. Sear each side for 3-5 minutes. Move to a cooler area on the grill to cook for 45-55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

Step 6: Apply the Marinara Glaze

In the last 10 minutes of grilling, brush the marinara glaze over the meatloaf, letting it caramelize.

Step 7: Serve

Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, and serve with extra marinara on the side.

Tips

• Cheesy Surprise: For a gooey center, add shredded mozzarella to the middle of the meatloaf before grilling.
• Extra Flavor: Use Italian sausage for half the meat mixture for added flavor.
• Leftover Idea: Slice leftovers for hearty Italian-style meatloaf sandwiches.

Variations

1. Vegetable-Packed Meatloaf: Add chopped spinach and bell peppers for extra vegetables.
2. Spicy Italian Meatloaf: Increase the red pepper flakes and use spicy Italian sausage.
3. Classic Marinara Topping: Replace the glaze with a simple topping of marinara and a sprinkle of oregano.
4. Pesto-Stuffed Meatloaf: Add a layer of pesto and mozzarella in the center.
5. Balsamic Glazed Meatloaf: Add extra balsamic vinegar to the glaze for a rich, tangy flavor.

Best Pairings

• Side Dishes: Serve with garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a simple Caesar salad.
• Drinks: Pair with a medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or a sparkling water with lemon.

Conclusion

Grilled Italian-Style Meatloaf on the Arteflame grill is a smoky, herb-infused dish that brings together the best of Italian flavors. With a tangy marinara glaze and an optional cheesy center, this meatloaf is perfect for any Italian-inspired meal.