This Easy Stuffed Italian Meatloaf is a family favorite, filled with gooey cheese and tasty herbs. It’s like a cozy hug on a plate, perfect for any dinner!
Making this meatloaf is a breeze! I love how all the flavors come together, and let’s be honest, who can resist melty cheese? It’s a guaranteed hit at our dinner table! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: A mix of ground beef and pork adds flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for a healthier option, ground turkey works too, but it can be drier, so consider adding extra moisture like an extra egg or some chopped mushrooms.
Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs: These help bind the meatloaf and add flavor. If you don’t have them, you can use plain breadcrumbs mixed with dried Italian herbs like basil and oregano.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a nice salty flavor. Grated Pecorino Romano is a great substitute if you prefer something sharper. Nutritional yeast can also be used for a dairy-free option!
Cheese Stuffing: Mozzarella is perfect for melting goodness in the center. If you’re feeling adventurous, try using provolone or even a spicy cheese like pepper jack for a kick!
How Can I Get Perfectly Tender Meatloaf?
Getting the right texture is important in meatloaf. Overmixing can lead to a dense result, so simply mix until everything is combined.
- Make sure your meat and all ingredients are at room temperature to help everything blend better.
- Don’t pack the mixture too tightly; this keeps it light and tender.
- Let it rest after baking! This helps juices redistribute, making slices perfect and juicy.
These tips will help you create a meatloaf that is not just tasty but also wonderfully tender. Enjoy your cooking!
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
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for stuffing)
- 1 cup marinara sauce (for topping)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional, for frying onions)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes to prep everything, then about 60-70 minutes for baking. After it’s done, let it rest for 10 minutes. So, plan for a total of around 1 hour and 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, it will be hot and ready when your meatloaf is assembled.
2. Prepare the Onion and Garlic:
In a small pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing until they’re softened and fragrant—about 3-4 minutes. Once done, set them aside to cool slightly.
3. Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, milk, eggs, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and the sautéed onions and garlic. Mix everything together gently until just combined—overmixing can make the meatloaf dense, and we want it tender!
4. Shape the Meatloaf:
On a lined baking sheet or in a loaf pan, flatten half of the meat mixture into a rectangular shape. Make sure it’s even and about an inch thick. This is where the fun part comes in!
5. Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the flattened meat mixture, covering it well. This cheesy layer is what makes it special!
6. Assemble the Meatloaf:
Now, take the remaining meat mixture and cover the cheese layer completely, pressing down gently to seal the edges. This will keep all that delicious cheese tucked away inside!
7. Top it with Sauce:
Spread the marinara sauce evenly over the top of the meatloaf. This adds flavor and keeps it moist during baking.
8. Bake the Meatloaf:
Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for about 60-70 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). You can use a meat thermometer for accuracy!
9. Let it Rest:
When it’s finished baking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, so it stays moist when you slice it.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the meatloaf and serve warm with extra marinara sauce or your favorite Italian sides like pasta, garlic bread, or a fresh green salad. Enjoy your delicious, cheesy stuffed Italian meatloaf!
FAQ for Easy Stuffed Italian Meatloaf
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef or pork, but keep in mind turkey can be dry. Consider adding a little extra moisture, like an additional egg or some chopped veggies, to maintain a juicy texture.
What Can I Use If I Don’t Have Italian-Seasoned Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs, you can use plain breadcrumbs mixed with dried Italian herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme. About a teaspoon of each will give you a similar flavor profile!
How do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat slices in the microwave or in a skillet on low heat. Adding a splash of marinara sauce while reheating keeps it moist!
Can I Freeze This Meatloaf?
Absolutely! Once cooked and cooled, wrap the meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
