This Easy Stuffed Italian Meatloaf is a tasty twist on a classic! It’s loaded with gooey cheese and rich Italian spices, making every slice a delightful surprise.
You can impress your family with this cozy meal—just bake it and watch smiles grow! I love serving it with pasta or a fresh salad for a complete dinner. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I love using a mix of beef and pork for extra flavor. If you’re looking to be healthier, ground turkey or chicken can work too, but it will be leaner.
Italian Seasoned Breadcrumbs: These are a must for flavor! If you don’t have them, you can use plain breadcrumbs with a pinch of dried Italian herbs. Homemade breadcrumbs from leftover bread also do the trick.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a rich flavor. If you can’t find it or want a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast is a nice substitute for a cheesy taste!
Mozeralla Cheese: It brings that melty goodness. For a twist, you can try cheddar or provolone if you’re feeling adventurous.
How Do I Keep My Meatloaf Moist and Tender?
Getting a moist meatloaf can be tricky! Here’s how to do it:
- Soak your breadcrumbs in milk to enhance moisture. This makes the meatloaf softer.
- Combine all ingredients gently. Overmixing makes it tough.
- Using fatty meats, like ground pork, keeps it juicy, too!
Finally, let your meatloaf rest after baking—it helps keep moisture in when slicing!
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
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried Italian herbs)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for stuffing)
- 1 cup marinara sauce (plus extra for serving)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep and around 60-70 minutes to bake. Plus, you’ll want to let it rest for 10 minutes after baking. In total, plan for about 1 hour and 30 minutes to enjoy your delicious stuffed Italian meatloaf!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Cooking Surface:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your baking dish by lightly greasing a loaf pan or lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will make for easier cleanup later!
2. Make the Meat Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, Italian seasoned breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, milk, chopped onion, minced garlic, eggs, chopped parsley, salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until everything is just combined, being careful not to overmix.
3. Shape the Meatloaf:
Divide the meat mixture into two equal portions. Press one portion into the shape of a loaf in your prepared pan. Make sure it’s even and well-formed.
4. Add the Cheesy Surprise:
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the first meat layer, leaving a small margin around the edges to seal later.
5. Complete the Loaf:
Take the second portion of the meat mixture and carefully cover the cheese layer, sealing the edges well. Shape it into a complete loaf so that the cheese is nestled inside.
6. Add Sauce and Glaze:
Spoon the marinara sauce evenly over the top of the meatloaf. For a lovely glaze, drizzle olive oil over the sauce.
7. Bake to Perfection:
Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for about 60-70 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Your kitchen will smell amazing!
8. Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, take the meatloaf out of the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This helps it set up before slicing.
9. Enjoy:
Slice the meatloaf and serve warm with additional marinara sauce on the side, along with pasta or a fresh green salad. Enjoy your comforting, cheesy Italian meatloaf!
FAQ for Easy Stuffed Italian Meatloaf
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be a healthy alternative, though keep in mind that they are leaner and may not yield the same rich flavor. You might consider adding a tablespoon of olive oil to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Dish Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply substitute the Italian seasoned breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs. You can also use crushed gluten-free crackers or oats if you prefer. The rest of the ingredients should be gluten-free as well, but always check labels.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or oven until heated through. Add a splash of marinara sauce to keep it moist while reheating!
Can I Freeze the Meatloaf?
Yes, you can freeze the meatloaf! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It should keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking or reheating.
