June 28, 2026 · 10 min

Balsamic-Glazed Italian Pork Meatloaves with Herbed Ricotta and Garlic Bread

Dinner10 min2843 cal / serving

These mini pork meatloaves bring the cozy comfort of meatloaf with an Italian twist. Seasoned with Italian herbs and topped with a tangy balsamic-ketchup glaze, they bake up tender and flavorful on a single sheet pan alongside zucchini and carrots.

The roasted vegetables are served over a bed of creamy ricotta seasoned with herbs and everything is finished with a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Crusty garlic bread on the side makes this a complete, satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.


Recipe details

Dinner10 min2843 cal / serving2 servings

Nutrition per serving

Calories2843 kcalProtein53.1 gFat266.7 gCarbs61.1 gSugar24.3 gFiber6.1 gSodium1163 mg

Dietary labels

Gluten-free: noLactose-free: noDairy-free: no

Allergen check

Gluten / wheat: containsMilk / dairy: containsEgg: not detectedFish: not detectedShellfish: not detectedPeanut: not detectedTree nuts: not detectedSoy: containsSesame: not detectedMustard: not detectedCelery: not detectedSulphites: not detectedLupin: not detectedMolluscs: not detected

Values are calculated per serving from ingredient amounts and the ingredient nutrition reference per 100g. Allergen and diet labels use available ingredient metadata and name matching; always check product labels for strict diets or allergies. Some ingredient amounts or nutrition values were incomplete, so this is marked as a partial estimate.


Ingredients

Ciabatta1 unit CiabattaView ingredient guide
Zucchini1 unit ZucchiniView ingredient guide
Ricotta Cheese4 ounce Ricotta CheeseView ingredient guide
Ketchup1 unit KetchupView ingredient guide
Ground Pork10 ounce Ground PorkView ingredient guide
Panko Breadcrumbs0.25 cup Panko BreadcrumbsView ingredient guide
Carrot9 ounce CarrotView ingredient guide
Balsamic Glaze5 teaspoon Balsamic GlazeView ingredient guide
Garlic Powder1 teaspoon Garlic PowderView ingredient guide
Olive Oil2 teaspoon (tsp) Olive OilView ingredient guide
Black Pepperteaspoon (tsp) Black PepperView ingredient guide
Cooking Oil2 teaspoon (tsp) Cooking OilView ingredient guide
Butter1 tablespoon (tbsp) ButterView ingredient guide
Saltteaspoon (tsp) SaltView ingredient guide

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper.
  2. Trim and halve zucchini lengthwise, then cut into 1-inch half-moons. Peel and slice carrots into 1/4-inch rounds.
  3. In a small bowl, combine ricotta with a pinch of salt, pepper and half the Italian seasoning. Set aside.
  4. In a large bowl, mix ground pork, panko, remaining Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper and chicken stock concentrate. Form into 4 small loaves.
  5. In another small bowl, stir together ketchup and 2 teaspoons balsamic glaze. Brush half the glaze over the meatloaves.
  6. Toss zucchini and carrots with olive oil, salt and pepper. Spread vegetables on one side of the sheet pan. Place meatloaves on the other side.
  7. Bake for 20-22 minutes until meatloaves are cooked through (internal temp 160°F) and vegetables are tender.
  8. Meanwhile, slice ciabatta in half lengthwise. Mix softened butter with a pinch of garlic powder and spread on cut sides. Toast in oven or toaster until golden.
  9. Remove sheet pan from oven. Brush remaining balsamic glaze over meatloaves.
  10. To serve, spread herbed ricotta on plates, top with roasted vegetables and place meatloaves alongside. Drizzle with remaining balsamic glaze. Serve with garlic bread.

Recipe Tips

For extra tenderness, avoid overmixing the meatloaf mixture.

If you prefer a thicker glaze, simmer the ketchup and balsamic glaze in a small saucepan for 2 minutes before brushing.

Leftover meatloaves can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

FAQ

Can I use ground beef instead of pork?

Yes, ground beef or a mix of pork and veal works well. Adjust cooking time if needed.

What can I substitute for balsamic glaze?

You can make your own by simmering 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar with 1 tablespoon brown sugar until syrupy.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can assemble the meatloaves and chop the vegetables up to a day in advance. Store separately in the fridge and bake when ready.

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