This Easy Stuffed Italian Meatloaf is packed with flavor and surprises! Think of tender meat mixed with spices and gooey cheese hidden inside—yum!
I love how it makes my kitchen smell amazing while it bakes. Plus, it’s easy to slice for dinner and leftovers, if there are any! Who doesn’t love a good meatloaf? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: A mix of beef and pork gives more flavor, but you can use all ground beef if preferred. For a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken works too!
Breadcrumbs: Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs add extra flavor. If you can’t find them, regular breadcrumbs with a sprinkle of Italian herbs will do just fine!
Parmesan Cheese: This cheese adds saltiness. Grated Pecorino Romano is a great alternative. If you need dairy-free, nutritional yeast can give a cheesy flavor.
Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella is gooey and melts beautifully. You can use provolone or cheddar for a different twist, or omit cheese for a lighter version.
Marinara Sauce: Use store-bought marinara for convenience, or homemade if you have time. Substitute with any tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes if needed.
How Do You Mix Meatloaf Without It Falling Apart?
Mixing the meatloaf properly is crucial to keep it together. Remember, the key is not to overmix! Here’s how to do it right:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef and spices gently.
- Add breadcrumbs, cheese, and other wet ingredients. Use your hands or a spatula to combine until everything is just mixed.
- Avoid squishing it too hard; the goal is to keep air in the mix for a lighter texture.
After mixing, be gentle when shaping the meatloaf. A light touch will help it hold together during baking!
Easy Stuffed Italian Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 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 eggs
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for stuffing)
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce (plus additional for topping)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy stuffed Italian meatloaf recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 60-75 minutes of baking time. So, you’re looking at around 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes total to enjoy this delicious dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). If you have a loaf pan, lightly grease it or line it with parchment paper to make the meatloaf easy to remove later.
2. Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients:
In a large bowl, put the ground beef, Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, milk, eggs, minced garlic, chopped onion, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything gently using your hands or a spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this will keep the meatloaf tender!
3. Prepare the Stuffing:
On a clean surface, take half of the meat mixture and flatten it into a rectangle that is about the size of your loaf pan. Try to make it even!
4. Add the Cheese Layer:
Now, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over this flattened meat layer, leaving a little bit of space around the edges so you can seal it later.
5. Form the Meatloaf:
Carefully place the remaining meat mixture on top of the cheese layer. Press it down gently and seal the edges so that the cheese is totally enclosed inside the meatloaf.
6. Transfer to the Loaf Pan:
Place the stuffed meatloaf into the prepared loaf pan. Top it with ½ cup of marinara sauce to give it a nice flavor and a pretty finish.
7. Bake It Up:
Pop the meatloaf into the preheated oven and bake for 60-75 minutes. You know it’s done when the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the top is beautifully brown.
8. Rest and Slice:
Once baked, let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps it hold together better. If you like, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a pop of color.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the meatloaf warm, with extra marinara sauce on the side or poured over the slices for extra flavor! It pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or some roasted veggies.
Enjoy your Italian-inspired meatloaf! It’s comforting and delicious—perfect for any day of the week!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that it can be a bit drier, so you might want to add an extra splash of milk or some more moisture to the mixture.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover stuffed meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage—just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before placing it in the freezer. It keeps well for about 2-3 months!
What’s the Best Way to Reheat Meatloaf?
The best way to reheat meatloaf is in the oven. Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place the sliced meatloaf in a baking dish, and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through. You can also use the microwave for a quicker option, but it may lose some of its texture.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Meatloaf?
Yes! Feel free to add finely chopped bell peppers, carrots, or spinach to the mix for extra flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to dice them very small so they incorporate well and don’t affect the texture. You may need to adjust the binding ingredients slightly to accommodate any extra moisture from the vegetables.
