This Stuffed Italian Meatloaf is a tasty twist on a classic dish! Packed with flavorful ground meat and gooey cheese in the center, it’s sure to please everyone at the table.
You won’t believe how easy it is to make! Just mix, stuff, and bake. I love serving it with a side of pasta, and honestly, who can resist that melted cheese? It’s comfort food at its best! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Meat: Use a blend of ground beef and pork for depth of flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works well too but might need additional seasoning for flavor.
Breadcrumbs: Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs add extra flavor. If you don’t have any, you can use plain breadcrumbs and add Italian spices, or even crushed crackers as a substitute.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a salty, nutty flavor. You can substitute with Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Eggs: They help bind the meatloaf. If eggs are not an option, use 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce or flaxseed meal mixed with water (1 tbsp flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water) per egg.
Cheese: Mozzarella is excellent for that melty center. Feel free to mix it up with provolone or fontina for different flavors.
How Do You Shape the Perfect Meatloaf?
Shaping the meatloaf correctly ensures even cooking and keeps that cheesy center intact. Here’s how:
- Use parchment paper for easier handling. It keeps cleanup minimal.
- Gently shape half of the meat mixture into a rectangle about 9×6 inches without compacting too much. This helps keep it tender.
- When layering cheese, make sure to leave space at the edges to prevent leaks while cooking.
- Seal the edges well before baking. Press firmly to avoid the cheese ooze-out during cooking.
Stuffed Italian Meatloaf with Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (or a mixture of beef and pork)
- 1 cup Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tbsp dried Italian herbs)
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce, plus extra for topping
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, sliced or cut into sticks for stuffing
- Olive oil (for drizzling)
- Optional: red pepper flakes for some heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
The total time to prepare this delicious stuffed meatloaf is about 10 minutes for prep and approximately 60 to 70 minutes for baking. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing, making it a perfect dish to enjoy after a busy day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). You want it hot and ready for your tasty meatloaf! Lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, eggs, milk, chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, 1/2 cup of marinara sauce, salt, pepper, and oregano. Mix gently until everything is just combined—be careful not to overmix!
3. Shape the Loaf:
On a large piece of parchment or wax paper, take half of the meat mixture and shape it into a rectangle about 9×6 inches. This will be the base for your cheesy center.
4. Add the Cheese:
Lay the mozzarella cheese slices or sticks evenly over the meat base, making sure to leave a little border around the edges. This will keep the cheese from leaking out while baking!
5. Top and Seal:
Carefully place the rest of the meat mixture on top of the cheese layer. Seal the edges well, shaping everything into a loaf so that it holds together nicely during cooking.
6. Prepare for Baking:
Transfer the meatloaf to the prepared pan or baking sheet. Drizzle a little olive oil over the top to keep it juicy, and spread a few spoonfuls of marinara sauce over it for extra flavor.
7. Bake:
Pop it in the oven and bake for about 60 to 70 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
8. Resting Time:
When it’s finished baking, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the cheese to set slightly, making it easier to slice.
9. Serve:
Slice the meatloaf warm, and spoon some extra marinara sauce on top if you like. Enjoy it with pasta, garlic bread, or a fresh salad for a complete meal!
Bon appétit! 😊
FAQ for Stuffed Italian Meatloaf with Cheese
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! While ground beef and a mixture of beef and pork provide great flavor, you can also use ground turkey or chicken. Just be mindful that leaner meats may require additional seasoning to add flavor.
What Can I Substitute for Mozzarella Cheese?
If you don’t have mozzarella, feel free to use provolone or fontina cheese; both will melt beautifully. For a twist, add some crumbled feta or goat cheese for a different flavor profile!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatloaf earlier in the day and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. Just remember to add some additional cooking time if you’re baking it cold from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat slices in the microwave or gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Enjoy it in sandwiches or salads for a tasty next-day meal!