This Easy Stuffed Italian Meatloaf is a tasty twist on the classic comfort food! Packed with delicious Italian flavors and gooey cheese, it’s sure to impress everyone at the dinner table.
Trust me, the surprise filling will have your family asking for seconds—and who can say no to extra cheese? 😄 I love serving it with a side of pasta for a complete meal that’s simple and satisfying!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground beef: I love using a mix of ground beef and pork for extra flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can swap it with turkey or chicken, but they can dry out easily.
Italian-style breadcrumbs: These breadcrumbs are great for adding flavor. If you don’t have them, regular breadcrumbs mixed with a pinch of Italian seasoning works just as well!
Parmesan cheese: A must for that yummy savory flavor! You can use Pecorino Romano as a substitute if you want something a bit sharper.
Milk: This helps keep the meatloaf moist. You can use any type, or even dairy-free milk if you prefer. I’ve used almond milk with great results!
Fresh parsley: Fresh herbs really brighten up the dish. If you don’t have fresh, dried herbs can be a shortcut. Just use a smaller amount since they’re more potent.
How Do I Keep My Meatloaf from Drying Out?
To avoid a dry meatloaf, the mixture must be just right. Here are my best tips:
- Choose fatty ground meats (like beef and pork) for tenderness.
- Don’t overmix the ingredients; this can lead to a dense loaf.
- Incorporate moisture from milk and eggs. They act as binding agents while adding to the juiciness.
- Cover the meatloaf with marinara sauce, which provides moisture while baking.
- Let the meatloaf rest after baking; this allows juices to redistribute.
Easy Stuffed Italian Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 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
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tbsp dried Italian herbs)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for stuffing)
- 1 cup marinara sauce (for topping)
- Olive oil or cooking spray (for greasing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Stuffed Italian Meatloaf takes about 20 minutes to prepare and 60-70 minutes to bake. Overall, you’re looking at about 1 hour and 30 minutes to complete, plus an extra 10 minutes to let it rest before slicing. A tasty and comforting meal that’s well worth the time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Pan:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that heats up, lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help the meatloaf come out easily after it’s cooked.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, milk, eggs, minced garlic, chopped onion, parsley, salt, pepper, oregano, and basil. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together gently. Be careful not to overmix so your meatloaf stays tender and delicious.
3. Shape the Meatloaf:
On a clean surface or a large piece of parchment paper, shape half of the meat mixture into a loaf about 9×5 inches. This will be the base for your cheese stuffing.
4. Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the formed meatloaf, leaving a small border around the edges. This cheesy center is what makes this meatloaf extra special!
5. Seal and Form:
Carefully top the cheese layer with the remaining meat mixture, sealing the edges tightly. This will keep your cheese nice and melty inside while baking. Shape it into a loaf form.
6. Prepare for Baking:
Transfer the meatloaf to the greased loaf pan or the prepared baking sheet. It’s time to get baking!
7. Add the Marinara Sauce:
Spread the marinara sauce evenly over the top of the meatloaf. This adds flavor and moisture during baking.
8. Bake the Meatloaf:
Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for about 60-70 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). You can check this with a meat thermometer for best results.
9. Let It Rest:
Once baked, carefully remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This resting time allows the juices to settle, making it easier to slice without falling apart.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the meatloaf and serve warm with a delicious side of pasta, garlic bread, or a fresh salad. Enjoy every cheesy bite of this fantastic Italian dish!
Bon Appétit! Your Easy Stuffed Italian Meatloaf is sure to become a family favorite! 😋
FAQ for Easy Stuffed Italian Meatloaf
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that turkey can be drier, so consider adding a bit more milk or olive oil to the mixture to keep it moist.
How Do I Know When the Meatloaf is Done?
The best way to check for doneness is to use a meat thermometer; it should register 160°F (71°C) in the center. If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the middle; the juices should run clear, and the meat should not look pink.
Can I Make This Meatloaf Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance. Just shape the meatloaf, cover it tightly in the fridge, and bake it the next day. You may need to extend the baking time slightly if it’s cold from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in the microwave or warm them in the oven at a low temperature, covered with foil to keep them moist.
