Stuffed Italian Meatloaf

Why Make This Recipe

Stuffed Italian Meatloaf is a delightful twist on a classic dish. This recipe combines ground beef and Italian sausage, adding depth of flavor and a hearty texture. The surprise filling of gooey mozzarella cheese and rich marinara sauce makes each bite comforting and delicious. It’s perfect for family dinners and is sure to impress your guests, making it a must-try recipe for any home cook.

How to Make Stuffed Italian Meatloaf

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ lbs ground beef
• ½ lb ground Italian sausage
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup bread crumbs
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 tbsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tbsp parsley, chopped
• ½ cup milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 cup spinach, chopped (optional)
• ¼ cup marinara sauce
• ½ cup marinara sauce
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, Italian sausage, onion, garlic, bread crumbs, eggs, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and parsley. Add milk, salt, and pepper, then mix until fully combined.
3. On a baking sheet, form the meat mixture into a rectangular loaf (about 9×12 inches).
4. Create a well in the center of the meatloaf and stuff with mozzarella cheese, spinach (if using), and a spoonful of marinara sauce.
5. Carefully fold the meat around the filling, sealing the edges to form a loaf.
6. Spread the remaining marinara sauce on top of the meatloaf and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
8. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
9. Serve with extra marinara sauce, if desired.

How to Serve Stuffed Italian Meatloaf

Stuffed Italian Meatloaf is best served warm. Slice it into thick pieces and plate it alongside your favorite sides, like roasted vegetables, garlic bread, or a fresh salad. Drizzle extra marinara sauce on top for added flavor. This dish is great for family dinners or special occasions.

How to Store Stuffed Italian Meatloaf

To store leftovers, keep the meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage; wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven or microwave.

Tips to Make Stuffed Italian Meatloaf

• Use lean ground beef to reduce fat content.
• For extra flavor, try adding some chopped herbs or spices to the filling.
• Make sure to seal the edges well to keep the cheese and sauce from leaking out.
• Let it rest after baking; this helps keep it juicy and easier to slice.

Variation

You can customize your stuffed meatloaf by using different cheeses or adding more vegetables to the filling, like bell peppers or zucchini. For a spicy kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey works well, but adjust the cooking time as it may cook faster.

What if I don’t have Italian sausage?

You can use all ground beef if you prefer, or substitute with your favorite ground meat.

How can I make it gluten-free?

Use gluten-free bread crumbs and check for gluten-free marinara sauce to make this dish suitable for a gluten-free diet.