If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal that brings gooey cheese and savory meat together in perfect harmony, this Stuffed Meatloaf with Mozzarella Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish takes the classic meatloaf to the next level by hiding a creamy mozzarella center that melts beautifully during baking, giving every bite a delicious surprise. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s as satisfying as it is simple to make, perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Stuffed Meatloaf with Mozzarella Recipe calls for straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together effortlessly. Each one plays a vital role: the ground beef brings richness, the breadcrumbs and eggs hold everything together, while the herbs and cheeses create layers of flavor and texture.
- 500g ground beef: The hearty base providing rich flavor and juiciness.
- 1 cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meat mixture and keeps it tender.
- 2 eggs: Acts as a natural binder for the meatloaf.
- 1 small onion, finely diced: Adds subtle sweetness and moisture.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the meatloaf with aromatic savory notes.
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated: Boosts umami and adds a salty tang.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Gives a fragrant herbaceous touch.
- 200g mozzarella cheese, sliced or in a log: The gooey star filling that melts perfectly.
- 1/2 cup ketchup or BBQ sauce: Adds a tangy glaze and beautiful color.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: Freshens up the dish with a pop of green and brightness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that bring the whole dish together.
How to Make Stuffed Meatloaf with Mozzarella Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Mixture
Start by combining the ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, finely diced onion, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Mix everything gently but thoroughly to ensure all the ingredients are evenly incorporated without overworking the meat, which could make the meatloaf dense.
Step 2: Shape the Base Layer
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Take half of the meat mixture and shape it into a loaf shape directly on the sheet, forming a base that’s sturdy but not too compacted.
Step 3: Add the Mozzarella Center
Lay the slices or log of mozzarella cheese down the center of the loaf base, making sure to leave some space around the edges to fully encase the cheese later. This will ensure the melt stays locked inside during baking, creating that delightful cheesy core.
Step 4: Seal the Meatloaf
Carefully cover the mozzarella with the remaining meat mixture, spreading it evenly and pressing gently to seal all the edges completely. This step is key to avoid any cheese leaking out during baking while ensuring a meaty exterior.
Step 5: Glaze with Sauce
Spread a generous layer of ketchup or BBQ sauce over the top of the meatloaf. This adds a glossy, tangy kick to the final presentation and also helps the crust to caramelize beautifully in the oven.
Step 6: Bake the Meatloaf
Place the stuffed meatloaf into a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). This ensures the meat is cooked through while the mozzarella inside is perfectly melted.
Step 7: Add Extra Mozzarella
About 10 minutes before the baking time is up, sprinkle additional mozzarella on top of the loaf. This finishing touch creates a bubbly, golden cheese topping that’s irresistible.
Step 8: Rest the Meatloaf
Once out of the oven, let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute and the cheese center to set slightly, making it easier to slice without losing the cheesy goodness inside.
Step 9: Garnish and Slice
Before serving, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top. This adds a fresh, vibrant contrast to the rich meat and cheese components and makes the dish look as good as it tastes.
How to Serve Stuffed Meatloaf with Mozzarella Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley is a classic choice that brightens the visual and flavor profile. For an extra pop, you might add a handful of chopped chives or a drizzle of balsamic glaze to lift the savory flavor even more.
Side Dishes
This meatloaf pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted seasonal vegetables, or a crisp garden salad. The creamy smoothness of mashed potatoes contrasts daintily with the meaty texture, while veggies add freshness and color.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the meatloaf thick for a hearty presentation, or serve it as smaller individual portions for a more elegant meal. You can also transform leftovers into meatloaf sandwiches with arugula and tomato on toasted bread for a next-day treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover stuffed meatloaf keeps wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing to maintain flavor and moisture.
Freezing
If you want to prepare ahead or save portions, this Stuffed Meatloaf with Mozzarella Recipe freezes well. Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap then in aluminum foil or place in an airtight freezer bag. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months without loss of flavor.
Reheating
Reheat slices gently in the microwave or warm in a 325°F (160°C) oven covered with foil to keep the meat moist and the cheese melty. Avoid overheating to prevent drying out the meat.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of mozzarella?
Absolutely! While mozzarella is ideal for its meltiness and mild flavor, you can experiment with provolone, fontina, or even a combination of cheeses for a unique twist.
What can I use if I don’t have breadcrumbs?
Ground oats, crushed crackers, or even crushed cornflakes work as excellent substitutes. They all help bind the meatloaf and absorb moisture.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing before baking?
Yes, you can assemble the meatloaf and freeze it before baking. Thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking and then bake as directed.
How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked?
The safest method is to use a meat thermometer and check that the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). This ensures the beef is cooked through but still juicy.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely! Swap the breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground nuts to keep the dish safe for gluten-sensitive eaters without losing texture.
Final Thoughts
This Stuffed Meatloaf with Mozzarella Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that brings comfort food to new heights with its impressive cheesy center and perfectly seasoned meat. It’s an inviting dish to make any night special, creating warm memories around the table. Dive in and enjoy every savory, melty bite – you won’t be disappointed!
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Stuffed Meatloaf with Mozzarella Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This stuffed meatloaf with mozzarella combines a juicy ground beef mixture seasoned with Italian herbs and savory Parmesan cheese, enveloping a delicious center of gooey mozzarella cheese. Topped with tangy ketchup or BBQ sauce and baked to perfection, this meatloaf makes a comforting and hearty meal. Garnished with fresh parsley, it serves six and is an ideal main dish for family dinners.
Ingredients
Meatloaf Mixture
- 500g ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Stuffing & Topping
- 200g mozzarella cheese, sliced or in a log
- 1/2 cup ketchup or BBQ sauce
- Additional mozzarella for topping (about 50g)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare Meat Mixture: In a large bowl, thoroughly combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, finely diced onion, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated but do not overwork to keep the meatloaf tender.
- Shape the Base: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Take half of the meat mixture and shape it into a loaf base, evenly distributing it and forming a rectangle with edges slightly raised to hold the stuffing.
- Add Mozzarella Filling: Arrange the sliced or log mozzarella cheese down the center of the meat base, leaving some space along the edges to seal the top layer.
- Seal the Meatloaf: Cover the mozzarella with the remaining meat mixture, pressing gently to seal the edges completely around the cheese to prevent it from leaking during baking.
- Top with Sauce: Spread ketchup or BBQ sauce evenly over the top surface of the meatloaf for flavor and a lightly caramelized finish.
- Bake the Meatloaf: Place the baking sheet in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 50 to 60 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C), ensuring the meat is fully cooked.
- Add Extra Mozzarella: About 10 minutes before the end of baking, sprinkle additional mozzarella cheese on top and return to the oven to melt and lightly brown.
- Rest the Meatloaf: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes; this lets the juices redistribute and makes slicing easier.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the rested meatloaf for a fresh pop of flavor and color before slicing and serving.
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef with a mix of ground beef and pork for added flavor.
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
- For a spicier kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.
- Make sure to seal the edges tightly to prevent cheese from oozing out during baking.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
