This Italian meatloaf is packed with tasty surprises! Juicy ground meat hugs a delicious cheesy center, making each slice a delight. You’ll love the blend of flavors and spices!
Making this dish always feels like winning the dinner jackpot. I love serving it with mashed potatoes or a fresh salad for a cozy meal. It’s easy and everyone goes for seconds! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground beef: A mix of beef and pork adds extra flavor and richness, but you can use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Italian-style breadcrumbs: These add texture and flavor. If you are gluten-free, simply substitute with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers.
Cheeses: I love using mozzarella for its meltiness. You can swap it with provolone or even cheddar if preferred. Parmesan adds a nice salty touch; use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative.
Parsley: Fresh parsley brightens the flavor. If you don’t have any, basil or oregano can work well, dried or fresh!
Marinara sauce: A store-bought variety is convenient. Feel free to use homemade sauce if you have some on hand, or even barbecue sauce for a different flavor twist.
How Do I Keep My Meatloaf Moist and Flavorful?
The key to moist meatloaf is balance in moisture and fat. Adding milk and eggs keeps it tender, while breadcrumbs absorb excess juices without making it soggy.
- Don’t skip sautéing onions and garlic; this adds a deep flavor and prevents any raw taste.
- Be gentle when mixing; overworking the meat can result in a dense loaf. You want to combine ingredients until just mixed.
- Resting the meatloaf after baking is essential. This allows juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is juicy.
Stuffed Italian Meatloaf with Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1½ lbs ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for stuffing)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup milk
- 1/3 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning (a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup marinara sauce (for topping)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (optional for sautéing onion and garlic)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meatloaf takes about 20 minutes to prep and 1 hour to bake, bringing the total time to about 1 hour and 20 minutes. Perfect for a cozy dinner with family!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a loaf pan by lightly greasing it or line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help with easy cleanup!
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a small skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the finely chopped onion and minced garlic for about 3-4 minutes, until they are soft and fragrant. Let this mixture cool for a few minutes.
3. Mix the Meatloaf:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef (or meat mix), Italian breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, eggs, milk, fresh parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and the cooled onion and garlic. Gently mix until everything is just combined to keep your meatloaf tender. Remember, don’t overmix!
4. Shape the Meat Mixture:
On a clean surface or a piece of parchment paper, spread half of the meat mixture evenly, shaping it into a rectangle that’s about the same size as your loaf pan.
5. Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over this layer of meat, leaving about a 1-inch border around the edges to prevent the cheese from spilling out when baking.
6. Form the Loaf:
Take the remaining meat mixture and layer it on top of the cheese, pressing down gently to seal it all in. Make sure to pinch the edges together to keep the cheesy goodness contained while it cooks!
7. Prepare for Baking:
Carefully transfer the meatloaf to your greased loaf pan or lined baking sheet. This will prevent it from falling apart.
8. Sauce it Up:
Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the top of your meatloaf. This adds moisture and flavor while baking.
9. Bake It:
Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). This ensures your meatloaf is safe to eat and perfectly cooked!
10. Rest and Serve:
Once baked, let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices settle, so every slice is juicy and delicious! Serve warm with your favorite sides, and enjoy the cheesy surprise!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Stuffed Italian Meatloaf with Cheese
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative. Just be aware that the meatloaf may be slightly less moist, so you might want to add a bit more milk or ensure it’s not overcooked.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge before reheating!
Can I Make This Meatloaf Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of Italian-style breadcrumbs. This will keep the recipe intact for those following a gluten-free diet without losing flavor.
What Sides Pair Well with This Meatloaf?
This stuffed meatloaf goes well with various sides! Classic choices include mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with pasta and extra marinara sauce for a heartier meal.
