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For the best flavor, I use a mix of ground beef and ground pork. Each brings its own taste. The beef gives a rich, hearty base. The pork adds some fat and moisture. Use one pound of each for a balanced mix. This choice makes the meatloaf juicy and tender. Cheese makes the meatloaf extra special. I love using mozzarella for its meltiness. It creates a gooey center that everyone enjoys. You can also add Parmesan for a sharp bite. Mixing different cheeses can bring new flavors. Just keep the total cheese amount around one cup. Herbs and spices are key to flavor. I use garlic, oregano, and basil to give it a classic Italian taste. Garlic adds depth, while oregano and basil bring freshness. A bit of fresh parsley adds color and brightness. Don't forget salt and pepper to taste. These simple seasonings make a big difference in the final dish. {{ingredient_image_2}} First, gather your ingredients. You need 1 pound of ground beef and 1 pound of ground pork. This mixture gives the meatloaf great flavor and texture. Next, add 1 cup of breadcrumbs for binding. Then, mix in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. This cheese adds a salty, nutty taste. Finely chop 1/4 cup of fresh parsley and add it for freshness. Now, add 2 cloves of minced garlic. Garlic gives a nice kick. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon each of dried oregano and dried basil. These herbs bring the Italian flavor. Finally, mix in 2 beaten eggs and 1/2 cup of marinara sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Use your hands or a wooden spoon to mix everything well. Once your mixture is ready, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Transfer the meat mixture onto the sheet. Shape it into a rectangular loaf, about 1 inch thick. Make a small well in the center of the meatloaf. This well will hold the cheese. Now, take 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and fill the well. Gently fold the sides of the meatloaf over the cheese. Make sure to seal it well. Adjust the shape of the meatloaf if needed. This step keeps the cheese hidden inside. Next, top the meatloaf with a generous layer of marinara sauce. This adds moisture and flavor. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the meatloaf for 45-50 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check the center. It should read 160°F (70°C) when done. After baking, let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes. This helps the cheese set and makes slicing easier. You can now slice and serve your delicious stuffed Italian meatloaf! To get the best texture in your meatloaf, mix the meat gently. Too much mixing can make it tough. Use your hands or a spoon to combine only until mixed. Adding breadcrumbs keeps it moist and tender. The eggs help bind everything together. This balance gives you a soft but sturdy meatloaf. Marinara sauce is key for flavor and moisture. Spread a layer on top before baking. This adds taste and keeps the meatloaf juicy. Use your favorite store-bought sauce or make your own for extra zing. Consider adding herbs or spices to your marinara for a personal touch. It elevates the dish and makes it special. Let your meatloaf rest for ten minutes after baking. This helps the cheese set and makes slicing easier. Use a sharp knife for clean cuts. If you want even nicer pieces, dip the knife in hot water, then wipe it dry. This trick keeps your slices intact and lovely for serving. Pro Tips Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley, oregano, and basil elevate the flavor of your meatloaf, making it taste vibrant and aromatic. Don’t Overmix: Mixing the meat too much can result in a dense texture. Combine the ingredients until just incorporated for a tender meatloaf. Rest Before Slicing: Allow the meatloaf to rest for at least 10 minutes after baking. This helps the juices redistribute and the cheese to set properly. Experiment with Cheese: While mozzarella is traditional, try adding provolone or fontina for a different flavor profile inside your meatloaf. {{image_4}} You can switch up the cheese in your stuffed Italian meatloaf. While mozzarella brings great stretch, you might love the tang of provolone or the creaminess of ricotta. For a sharper taste, try blue cheese or aged cheddar. Each cheese gives a unique twist to the flavor. Just remember to use cheese that melts well, so it stays gooey inside. Ground beef and pork are classic choices, but feel free to mix it up! Ground turkey or chicken works nicely for a leaner option. If you want something different, use ground lamb for a richer taste. Even plant-based crumbles can work for a vegetarian version. Just keep the seasoning strong to complement your chosen protein. If you need a gluten-free meatloaf, swap the breadcrumbs for gluten-free ones. You can also use crushed gluten-free crackers or oats. Make sure the marinara sauce is gluten-free, too. This way, everyone can enjoy a delicious, stuffed Italian meatloaf without worry! After making your stuffed Italian meatloaf, let it cool. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Place it in an airtight container. This helps keep the meatloaf fresh. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure the fridge is at or below 40°F (4°C) to prevent bacteria growth. You can freeze leftover meatloaf for later meals. First, let the meatloaf cool completely. Wrap it in plastic wrap, then in foil, or use a freezer-safe bag. This will prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to three months. Label the bag or container with the date for easy tracking. When it's time to eat your leftovers, reheat them carefully. You can use the oven for best results. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place slices of meatloaf in a baking dish. Add a splash of marinara sauce on top to keep it moist. Cover the dish with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also use a microwave for a quicker option. Place slices on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short bursts, checking often. Enjoy your delicious stuffed Italian meatloaf! You can make stuffed meatloaf healthier by using lean meats. Choose ground turkey or chicken instead of beef and pork. You can also swap breadcrumbs with oats or crushed whole grain crackers. This change adds fiber. Using fresh herbs boosts flavor without extra calories. You can cut back on the cheese, too. Instead of a full cup of mozzarella, try half. Lastly, use low-sodium marinara sauce to reduce salt. Stuffed Italian meatloaf pairs well with many sides. Here are some great options: - Roasted vegetables: Carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers add color and nutrition. - Garlic mashed potatoes: Creamy potatoes complement the meatloaf's flavors. - Simple salad: A fresh green salad with vinaigrette adds crunch. - Steamed broccoli: This veggie is easy and adds a bright touch. - Pasta: A small serving of spaghetti with marinara works well. These sides balance the meatloaf's richness. Yes, you can prepare stuffed meatloaf in advance. Mix the meat and stuffing and shape it into a loaf. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Place it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Just remember to thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking. This way, you save time on busy days. In this post, we explored how to create an amazing stuffed meatloaf. We covered choosing ground meat and cheese, as well as the best herbs. I shared step-by-step instructions for prepping, shaping, baking, and resting your meatloaf. You learned tips for texture, flavor, and serving. We also discussed variations based on your taste and how to store leftovers properly. Remember, stuffed meatloaf can be both fun and simple. Now, go ahead and make a delicious meal your family will love!

Cheesy Italian Stuffed Meatloaf

A delicious meatloaf filled with mozzarella cheese and topped with marinara sauce.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 6
Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 lb ground pork
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1/2 cup marinara sauce (plus additional for topping)
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • to taste salt and pepper

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and ground pork.
  • Add the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, finely chopped parsley, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, beaten eggs, and 1/2 cup of marinara sauce to the meat mixture. Season generously with salt and pepper.
  • Using your hands or a wooden spoon, mix all the ingredients together until they are evenly incorporated.
  • On a parchment-lined baking sheet, shape the meat mixture into a rectangular loaf, approximately 1 inch thick.
  • Create a small well in the center of the meatloaf, then evenly distribute the shredded mozzarella cheese inside the well.
  • Gently fold the sides of the meatloaf over the cheese to enclose it completely, ensuring that the cheese is sealed inside. Adjust the shape of the meatloaf as needed to maintain its integrity.
  • Generously spread a layer of marinara sauce over the top of the meatloaf, enhancing the flavor and moisture.
  • Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the center reads 160°F (70°C).
  • Once cooked, allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the cheese set and makes for cleaner slices.

Notes

Serve the meatloaf slices on a beautiful platter, adorned with fresh basil leaves for color. Accompany the dish with a side bowl of marinara sauce for dipping and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan on top to add an extra layer of flavor and texture!
Keyword cheesy, Italian, meatloaf