This Easy Stuffed Italian Meatloaf is a hearty twist on a classic! Filled with gooey cheese and savory herbs, it’s sure to make your taste buds happy.
Who knew meatloaf could be so exciting? I love how it brings comfort with every slice. Serve it with pasta and you’ve got a cozy meal everyone will enjoy! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I like to use a mix of ground beef and Italian sausage for more flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, use lean ground turkey or chicken instead.
Italian Seasoned Bread Crumbs: These add great flavor. If you don’t have them, plain bread crumbs with a touch of Italian herbs will work just fine. Or use crushed crackers for a fun twist!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is best for its rich taste. If you’re out, Pecorino Romano works well too, or you can skip it to make it dairy-free.
Shredded Mozzarella: This cheese creates a lovely gooey center. If you’re not a fan of mozzarella, try provolone or even cheddar for a different flavor!
Marinara Sauce: A good quality jarred marinara is a lifesaver. You can also DIY it with crushed tomatoes, garlic, and herbs if you have time!
How Do I Make Sure My Meatloaf Doesn’t Fall Apart?
Keeping your meatloaf together can be tricky. Here are some tips to make sure it holds its shape:
- Mix the ingredients just until combined. Overmixing can dry it out and cause it to crumble.
- Press the meat mixture firmly into your loaf shape; it helps to bond the ingredients together.
- Be sure to seal the edges of the meatloaf well after adding the cheese to prevent leaks while baking.
Finally, let the meatloaf rest before slicing. This helps it set and prevents it from falling apart when served!
Easy Stuffed Italian Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (or a mix of beef and Italian sausage)
- 1 cup Italian seasoned bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for stuffing)
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce (plus more for topping)
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of prep time and 60-70 minutes of cooking time. Allow for an additional 10 minutes to let the meatloaf rest before slicing. In total, you’re looking at around 1 hour and 25 minutes for a delicious stuffed meatloaf!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is important so that your meatloaf cooks evenly and thoroughly. While the oven warms up, you can prepare your meatloaf mixture!
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef (or your meat mix), Italian seasoned bread crumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, milk, the egg, garlic powder, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—it can make the meatloaf tough!
3. Shape the Meatloaf:
Take half of your meat mixture and place it in the prepared loaf pan (or shape it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper). Press gently into the shape of a loaf, about an inch thick.
4. Add the Cheese Stuffing:
Now, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the meat layer. This step makes the meatloaf nice and cheesy on the inside!
5. Encase the Cheese:
Cover the cheese layer with the remaining meat mixture, carefully shaping it into a loaf again. Make sure to seal the edges well so the cheese doesn’t leak out while it cooks.
6. Add Marinara Sauce:
Spread the marinara sauce over the top of the meatloaf to give it a delicious glaze and added flavor. Yum!
7. Bake the Meatloaf:
Pop the meatloaf into your preheated oven and let it bake for about 60-70 minutes. You want it to reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C), so you can use a meat thermometer to check this.
8. Rest the Meatloaf:
Once it’s cooked through, take it out of the oven and let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute and makes slicing easier.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the meatloaf, garnish with fresh parsley or basil if you’d like, and serve it with extra marinara sauce on the side. Enjoy your comforting and delicious Easy Stuffed Italian Meatloaf with a side of pasta or a fresh salad!
FAQ
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great lean alternatives for this recipe. Just keep in mind that these meats can be a bit dryer, so consider adding a little extra moisture, like a bit more milk or chopped vegetables, to keep the meatloaf juicy.
How Can I Make This Meatloaf Dairy-Free?
To make this recipe dairy-free, simply substitute the milk with a plant-based alternative, such as almond milk or oat milk. You can skip the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free cheese substitute without compromising the overall flavor!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat slices in the microwave or in a gently warmed oven to maintain its texture.
Can I Freeze the Meatloaf?
Yes, you can freeze the meatloaf! Before baking, shape it and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time if baking from frozen.
