This Stuffed Italian Meatloaf is a yummy twist on a classic favorite! It’s packed with flavorful ground meat and gooey cheese, making each slice a real treat.
The best part? You get that cheesy surprise in the middle! I like to serve it with pasta or a fresh salad. Trust me, it’s a family hit every time I make it! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I prefer a mix of beef and pork for added flavor and moisture. However, you can use only ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Italian-style Breadcrumbs: These give great flavor and texture, but you could also use plain breadcrumbs mixed with Italian seasoning or even crushed crackers for a different twist.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is best for brightness in flavor. If you’re dairy-free, try nutritional yeast or a plant-based cheese substitute.
Fresh Parsley: This herbs adds freshness, but if you don’t have any, you can use dried parsley. Just remember, dried herbs are more concentrated, so use less!
Mozzarella Cheese: For the ultimate cheesy center, fresh mozzarella is fantastic. But shredded mozzarella works just fine and melts well too!
How Do I Ensure My Meatloaf Won’t Fall Apart?
Keeping your meatloaf together can be tricky, but it’s all about how you mix and form it. Here are some tips:
- Mix your ingredients gently—overmixing can make your meatloaf tough.
- Be sure to seal the edges well after adding the cheese. This keeps it from leaking out while baking.
- Let it rest after baking. This allows the juices to redistribute and helps hold everything together.
Following these steps will help you serve up a beautiful, intact meatloaf that showcases that gooey cheese filling! Enjoy your meal with a side of salad or homemade garlic bread for a complete dinner.
How to Make Stuffed Italian Meatloaf with Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 large eggs
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for stuffing)
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce (for topping)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional, for sautéing onion and garlic)
Time Needed:
This tasty stuffed meatloaf requires about 15-20 minutes for preparation and will take around 1 hour to bake. Allow an extra 10 minutes for resting before slicing. So, you can expect the entire process to take about 1 hour and 30 minutes, perfect for a delicious family dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s hot and ready to bake that delicious meatloaf!
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they are softened and fragrant. Remove from heat and let them cool slightly.
3. Mix the Meat Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, milk, chopped parsley, eggs, sautéed onion and garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough!
4. Shape the Meatloaf:
On a clean surface or a piece of parchment paper, flatten half of the meat mixture into a rectangle about 1 inch thick. This is where the cheesy goodness will go!
5. Add the Cheese:
Evenly spread the shredded mozzarella cheese over the flattened meat layer, making sure to leave a small border around the edges.
6. Form the Loaf:
Carefully top the cheese layer with the remaining meat mixture. Gently press down to seal the edges, enclosing the cheese completely. Shape the whole thing into a loaf shape.
7. Prepare for Baking:
Transfer your meatloaf to the prepared loaf pan or place it on a lined baking sheet. Pour or spread the marinara sauce evenly over the top for a flavorful finish!
8. Bake to Perfection:
Bake your meatloaf in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until it’s cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). If the top is browning too quickly, lightly cover it with aluminum foil.
9. Let it Rest:
Once baked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This is important to keep that gooey cheese from spilling out when you slice it!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice your stuffed Italian meatloaf and serve it warm. Enjoy it with your favorite sides like pasta or a fresh salad! Your family will love the cheesy surprise inside!
This recipe provides a comforting and hearty dish that’s sure to impress. Enjoy every delicious bite!
FAQ for Stuffed Italian Meatloaf with Cheese
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a healthier alternative that works well in this recipe. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as turkey may cook faster.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Freeze the Meatloaf?
Yes, this meatloaf freezes beautifully! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or place it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What Can I Use Instead of Marinara Sauce?
If you don’t have marinara sauce, you can substitute with tomato sauce, pesto, or a homemade tomato-based sauce. Just make sure it complements the flavors of the meatloaf!
