With a base of ground meat, both American and Italian versions of meatloaf offer two different takes that speak to two different culinary practices, local ingredients, and a love for overflowing plates that are far from flavorless.

Italians might adore meatloaf for tasting like an oversized meatball and those who grew up on an American diet might think of it as making a big ol' hamburger. The idea is similar, but not exactly identical. While every meatloaf lover has an idea about what makes a truly perfect meatloaf, the answer may be a world (or an ocean) apart.