This Easy Stuffed Italian Meatloaf is a tasty twist on a classic favorite! It’s filled with gooey cheese and wonderful Italian herbs, making every bite full of flavor.
When I make this meatloaf, my house fills with the best smell! It’s so fun to slice and see that cheesy surprise inside. Plus, it’s simple to whip up. Perfect for any weeknight!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I typically use a mix of beef and pork for extra flavor. If you prefer, ground turkey or chicken can work well too, especially if you’re looking for a leaner option.
Italian Seasoned Breadcrumbs: These bring great flavor! You can use plain breadcrumbs and add your own Italian herbs or even crushed crackers if you’re in a pinch.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is my favorite for its taste, but pre-grated works too. Pecorino Romano can be used for a different flavor, but it’s saltier, so adjust your salt accordingly.
Milk: If you’re lactose intolerant, try almond milk or oat milk. It will still help keep the meatloaf moist.
Mozzarella Cheese: I like using whole milk mozzarella for its creaminess. If you want a sharper taste, try using provolone or even a spicy pepper jack.
How Do I Form the Perfect Meatloaf Shape?
Shaping meatloaf can be tricky. Here’s how to get it right:
- Use wet hands to prevent sticking when forming the meat mixture into a loaf.
- Make sure your loaf is even in thickness—this helps it cook evenly.
- Leave a border around the cheese when you lay it out; it helps seal in that cheesy goodness.
This shape not only looks good but also ensures that every slice gets the delightful cheesy surprise inside!
Easy Stuffed Italian Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning (blend of oregano, basil, thyme, rosemary)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for stuffing)
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce (optional, for topping)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Olive oil or nonstick spray (for greasing the pan)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Stuffed Italian Meatloaf will take about 15 minutes to prepare and then 60 to 70 minutes to bake. You’ll want to let it rest for about 10 minutes at the end before slicing. So overall, plan for about 1.5 to 2 hours from start to finish for a delicious, comforting meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper to make cleanup easier.
2. Mix the Meat Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, Italian breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, milk, eggs, minced garlic, chopped onion, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix as this can make the meatloaf tough.
3. Shape the Base:
On a clean flat surface or a piece of parchment paper, take about half of the meat mixture and shape it into a loaf that measures roughly 9×5 inches. Make sure it’s even in thickness for cooking.
4. Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the formed loaf base. Leave a half-inch border around the edges so you can seal in the cheese.
5. Seal the Cheese:
Take the remaining meat mixture and carefully cover the mozzarella cheese, sealing the edges well. Smooth the top to make it look nice.
6. Get It Ready for the Oven:
Transfer your stuffed meatloaf to the prepared loaf pan or baking sheet. If you want an extra flavor boost, spread marinara sauce over the top before baking.
7. Bake!
Pop the meatloaf into the preheated oven and let it bake for 60 to 70 minutes. It’s ready when its internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
8. Resting Time:
Once it’s cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This step is key as it helps the juices stay inside, making each slice juicy and delicious!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if you’d like. Serve your meatloaf warm with sides like mashed potatoes, salad, or roasted vegetables. Enjoy this comforting meal with family and friends!
This recipe perfectly balances the rich flavors of Italian herbs with the gooey center of mozzarella, making it a reliable favorite for any dinner!
FAQ for Easy Stuffed Italian Meatloaf
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey can be a great alternative if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just be aware that it might not be as juicy, so you may want to add a bit more milk or olive oil to help keep it moist.
What Can I Substitute for Mozzarella Cheese?
If you don’t have mozzarella, you can use provolone or a sharp cheddar for a different flavor. Just ensure that it melts well, as you want that gooey middle!
Can I Make This Meatloaf Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, simply shape it and pop it in the oven—no need to bring it to room temperature first!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, you can reheat slices in the microwave or in a skillet on low heat to maintain moisture.
