Sicilian Meatloaf: A Flavorful Italian Classic

Sicilian Meatloaf, known as Polpettone Siciliano, is a hearty Italian dish that elevates the traditional meatloaf by incorporating a blend of ground beef, pork, and veal, along with aromatic vegetables, herbs, and cheeses. This flavorful loaf is often rolled with layers of deli ham, fresh basil, and mozzarella cheese, then baked to perfection. It's a versatile dish that can be served hot or cold, making it ideal for family dinners, special occasions, or meal prepping.

Ingredients:

For the Meatloaf:

• 2 lbs ground beef

• 1 lb ground pork

• 1 lb ground veal

• 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs

• 2 large eggs

• ½ cup grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 1 celery stalk, finely chopped

• 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1 tsp dried basil

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Filling:

• 8 slices deli ham

• 12–15 fresh basil leaves

• 1¼ cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• 2 tbsp tomato paste

Directions:

1. Prepare the Vegetables:

   • In a medium skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.

   • Add the chopped onion, celery, and red bell pepper.

   • Sauté for about 5–7 minutes until the vegetables are soft and translucent.

   • Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

   • Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.

2. Mix the Meat Mixture:

   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, pork, and veal.

   • Add the sautéed vegetables, breadcrumbs, eggs, grated cheese, chopped parsley, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper.

   • Mix gently until all ingredients are well combined.

3. Shape the Meatloaf:

   • Place a large sheet of parchment paper on a flat surface.

   • Transfer the meat mixture onto the parchment paper and pat it out into a rectangle approximately 8 inches by 15 inches.

4. Assemble the Filling:

   • Layer the deli ham slices over the meat rectangle, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.

   • Place the fresh basil leaves on top of the ham.

   • Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the basil.

5. Roll the Meatloaf:

   • Starting from one of the shorter ends, carefully roll the meat mixture into a log, using the parchment paper to assist.

   • Seal the edges and ends by pinching them together to prevent the filling from escaping during baking.

6. Bake the Meatloaf:

   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

   • Place the rolled meatloaf seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

   • Spread the tomato paste evenly over the top of the meatloaf.

   • Bake for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

7. Rest and Serve:

   • Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

   • Serve slices over pasta or zucchini noodles, topped with marinara sauce and additional grated cheese if desired.

Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.):

• Calories: 454 kcal

• Total Fat: 20 g

  • Saturated Fat: 9 g

• Cholesterol: 161 mg

• Sodium: 1,091 mg

• Potassium: 984 mg

• Total Carbohydrates: 17 g

  • Dietary Fiber: 2 g

  • Sugars: 5 g

• Protein: 49 g

• Vitamin A: 1,075 IU

• Vitamin C: 16 mg

• Calcium: 214 mg

• Iron: 6 mg