Description of this recipe
This Stuffed Italian Meatloaf recipe elevates the classic comfort food to a whole new level. Imagine sinking your fork into a tender, juicy meatloaf, bursting with melted mozzarella cheese and infused with the aromatic flavors of Italy. This isn’t your grandma’s meatloaf (unless your grandma was secretly a gourmet chef!). It’s a culinary adventure that combines familiar comfort with an exciting, flavorful twist. The savory blend of ground beef and Italian sausage creates a rich, meaty foundation, while the creamy mozzarella filling adds a delightful gooey surprise in every slice. Topped with a vibrant marinara sauce, this meatloaf is a complete and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a family dinner, a potluck gathering, or even a special occasion. It’s a show-stopping centerpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why you will love this recipe
You’ll absolutely adore this Stuffed Italian Meatloaf for several compelling reasons. Firstly, it’s incredibly delicious and satisfying. The combination of savory meat, aromatic herbs, and gooey cheese creates a symphony of flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds. Secondly, it’s surprisingly easy to make, despite its impressive presentation. The recipe is straightforward, and with a few simple steps, you can create a restaurant-quality dish in your own kitchen. Thirdly, it’s versatile. You can easily customize the filling with your favorite cheeses, vegetables, or even cured meats to create a unique and personalized meatloaf. Fourthly, it’s a fantastic make-ahead meal. You can assemble the meatloaf ahead of time and bake it just before serving, making it perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining. Finally, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving it to family, friends, or guests, this Stuffed Italian Meatloaf is sure to be a hit. It’s a comforting, flavorful, and visually appealing dish that will leave everyone feeling satisfied and impressed. Plus, who can resist a cheesy, meaty masterpiece?
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef
- ½ lb ground Italian sausage
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese (for stuffing)
- 1 cup marinara sauce (plus extra for serving)
- Optional garnish: fresh parsley, basil, or Parmesan shavings
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is crucial for ensuring that the meatloaf cooks evenly and reaches the perfect internal temperature. While the oven is preheating, prepare your loaf pan or baking sheet. If using a loaf pan, grease it generously with cooking spray or olive oil to prevent the meatloaf from sticking. Alternatively, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will make it easier to transfer the meatloaf after baking and also simplifies cleanup.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground Italian sausage, finely chopped onion, and minced garlic. These ingredients form the flavorful base of the meatloaf. The onion and garlic add depth and aroma, while the blend of beef and sausage provides a rich, savory taste.
Step 3: Add the breadcrumbs, large eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, fresh parsley, salt, and black pepper to the bowl. These ingredients bind the meat together and enhance the overall flavor profile. The breadcrumbs help to absorb excess moisture, while the eggs act as a binder. Parmesan cheese adds a salty, umami note, and the Italian seasoning and parsley contribute to the classic Italian flavors.
Step 4: Gently mix all the ingredients together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the meat, as this can result in a tough meatloaf. Use your hands or a wooden spoon to combine the ingredients until they are evenly distributed. The goal is to create a cohesive mixture without compacting the meat.
Step 5: On a large sheet of parchment paper or a clean work surface, flatten approximately two-thirds of the meat mixture into a rectangle that is about ½ inch thick. This will form the base of the meatloaf. Use your hands to gently press and shape the meat into a uniform rectangle. The parchment paper will make it easier to transfer the meatloaf later.
Step 6: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the center of the flattened meat mixture, leaving a border of about 1 inch around the edges. This border is important for sealing the meatloaf properly. The mozzarella cheese will melt during baking, creating a gooey, cheesy center that is the highlight of the dish.
Step 7: Carefully place the remaining meat mixture on top of the mozzarella cheese, sealing the edges of the meatloaf well to enclose the cheese filling. Pinch the edges together to ensure that the cheese doesn’t leak out during baking. Shape the meatloaf into a loaf shape, smoothing the surface with your hands.
Step 8: Transfer the assembled meatloaf to the prepared loaf pan or baking sheet. If using parchment paper, you can simply lift the edges of the paper to transfer the meatloaf. This step requires some care to prevent the meatloaf from falling apart.
Step 9: Spread half of the marinara sauce evenly over the top of the meatloaf. This adds moisture and flavor to the meatloaf as it bakes. The marinara sauce will caramelize in the oven, creating a delicious glaze. Reserve the remaining marinara sauce for serving.
Step 10: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45–55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, inserting it into the center of the meatloaf. This ensures that the meatloaf is cooked through and safe to eat.
Step 11: Once the meatloaf is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meatloaf. The resting period is crucial for achieving the best texture and taste.
Step 12: Slice the meatloaf into thick slices and serve hot. Garnish with fresh parsley, basil, or Parmesan shavings, if desired. Serve with extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping or drizzling. The fresh herbs add a pop of color and freshness, while the extra marinara sauce enhances the overall flavor.
COOKING Rating:
Easy to Medium
Serving Suggestions:
This Stuffed Italian Meatloaf is a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides. Some excellent options include:
- Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting and classic accompaniment to the meatloaf.
- Roasted vegetables: Roasted vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts add a healthy and flavorful element to the meal.
- Garlic bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious marinara sauce.
- Pasta: A simple pasta dish with marinara sauce or pesto is a great way to round out the meal.
- Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the meatloaf.
Tips:
- Don’t overmix the meat: Overmixing can result in a tough meatloaf. Mix the ingredients until just combined.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to ensure that the meatloaf is cooked through.
- Let the meatloaf rest: Allowing the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing helps to redistribute the juices and results in a more tender meatloaf.
- Customize the filling: Get creative with the filling! Try adding different cheeses, vegetables, or cured meats.
- Make it ahead: Assemble the meatloaf ahead of time and bake it just before serving.
Prep Time:
20 minutes
Cook Time:
45-55 minutes
Total Time:
1 hour 5 minutes – 1 hour 15 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
Calories:
Approximately 450-550 per serving
Protein:
Approximately 30-40 grams per serving
Sodium:
Approximately 600-800mg per serving
Conclusion
This Hearty and Flavorful Stuffed Italian Meatloaf is a culinary masterpiece that combines the comfort of traditional meatloaf with the vibrant flavors of Italy. The combination of savory meat, aromatic herbs, and gooey mozzarella cheese creates a symphony of flavors and textures that will delight your taste buds. It’s an easy-to-make, versatile, and crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it to family, friends, or guests, this meatloaf is sure to be a hit. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece that will leave everyone feeling satisfied and impressed. Enjoy!
Questions and Answers about this recipe:
Q1: Can I use different types of cheese in the filling?
A: Absolutely! While mozzarella is a classic choice for its meltiness and mild flavor, you can definitely experiment with other cheeses. Provolone would add a similar texture with a slightly sharper taste, while fontina would bring a nutty and creamy element. You could even use a blend of cheeses for a more complex flavor profile. Just make sure the cheese you choose melts well for the best results.
Q2: I don’t have Italian sausage on hand. Can I substitute it with something else?
A: Yes, you can substitute the Italian sausage with other types of ground meat. Ground pork would be a good alternative, as it has a similar fat content and flavor profile. You could also use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, but keep in mind that these meats may be drier, so you might want to add a little extra olive oil or moisture to the meat mixture. Another option is to use more ground beef and add extra Italian seasoning to compensate for the lack of sausage flavor.
Q3: Can I add vegetables to the meatloaf?
A: Definitely! Adding vegetables to the meatloaf is a great way to boost its nutritional value and add extra flavor and texture. Some good options include finely chopped carrots, celery, bell peppers, or zucchini. You could also add sautéed mushrooms or spinach. Just make sure to chop the vegetables finely or sauté them before adding them to the meat mixture to ensure that they cook through properly.
Q4: How do I prevent the meatloaf from drying out?
A: There are several things you can do to prevent the meatloaf from drying out. First, don’t overmix the meat mixture, as this can make it tough and dry. Second, make sure to include enough moisture in the mixture by adding ingredients like eggs, breadcrumbs soaked in milk, or grated vegetables. Third, bake the meatloaf at the correct temperature and for the recommended time. Overbaking can cause the meatloaf to dry out. Finally, letting the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and moist meatloaf.
Q5: Can I freeze the meatloaf for later?
A: Yes, you can definitely freeze the meatloaf for later. You have two options: freeze it before baking or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble the meatloaf as directed in the recipe, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and then wrap it again in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw the meatloaf in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed in the recipe. If freezing after baking, let the meatloaf cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then wrap it again in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw the meatloaf in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat it in the oven or microwave.
