Oh my gosh, let me tell you about this stuffed meatloaf! This recipe is super special to me because it brings back memories of cozy family dinners at home. Just imagine that delicious aroma wafting through your kitchen as it bakes—it’s totally mouthwatering! This meatloaf is not your average dish; we stuff it with gooey mozzarella cheese that melts right in the center, making each slice a cheesy delight. My husband goes nuts for it, and I love that it’s so easy to whip up on a weeknight.
It’s flavorful, comforting, and perfect with a side of mashed potatoes or some fresh veggies. Whether it’s just us or we have friends over, this meatloaf always shines as the star of the meal. If you’re looking for something that feels both homey and a bit special, trust me, you’re going to love this! And if you’re feeling extra adventurous, you might want to try it paired with my homemade garlic mashed potatoes—they’re a match made in heaven!
Why You’ll Love This Stuffed Meatloaf Loaded with Mozzarella Cheese
- Deliciously cheesy with 2 cups of gooey mozzarella tucked inside
- Perfectly seasoned ground beef gives a savory depth of flavor
- Simple, everyday ingredients make it easy to prepare
- Impressive presentation as a rolled meatloaf
- Leftovers taste great in sandwiches or reheated
- Customization options galore: swap in different cheeses or add your favorite veggies
- A comfort food favorite that’s sure to impress family and friends
This meatloaf not only delivers on taste but is also a fun twist on a classic dish. You won’t believe how deliciously cheesy it is with that hidden mozzarella center!
How to Make Stuffed Meatloaf Loaded with Mozzarella Cheese
This stuffed meatloaf is a delightful twist on the classic dish—filled with melty mozzarella, it’s hearty, comforting, and perfect for a family dinner! Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra flavor.
What You’ll Need:
- Ground beef – 2 pounds (I recommend an 80/20 blend for the juiciest results).
- Breadcrumbs – 1 cup, to help bind the meatloaf. I prefer plain ones for better flavor control.
- Grated Parmesan cheese – 1/2 cup, to add a nice savory kick.
- Egg – 1 large egg, helps to hold everything together.
- Milk – 1/4 cup, to keep the meatloaf moist and tender.
- Onion – 1 small, finely chopped; it adds sweetness and flavor.
- Garlic – 2 cloves, minced, because garlic makes everything better!
- Italian seasoning – 1 teaspoon, for that classic flavor blend.
- Worcestershire sauce – 1 teaspoon, it enriches the meatloaf wonderfully.
- Salt and pepper – to taste; seasoning is key!
- Shredded mozzarella cheese – 2 cups, this is where the melty goodness comes from!
- Ketchup – 1/2 cup for topping; I use Heinz for its perfect balance of sweetness and tang.
- Fresh parsley – chopped, for a lovely garnish.
The Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, milk, onion, garlic, Italian seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is nicely incorporated.
- Lay out a large sheet of parchment paper or plastic wrap and form the meat mixture into a rectangle about 1-inch thick, pressing it evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the surface of the meat rectangle, making sure to leave a half-inch border around the edges.
- Carefully roll the meatloaf from one end to the other, using the parchment paper to guide it. Pinch the seams to seal the roll and place it seam-side down in a baking dish.
- Brush the top of the meatloaf with ketchup for a delicious glaze.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C) for safety.
- When done, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes—this helps lock in moisture.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, slice, and serve warm. Enjoy every cheesy, savory bite!
Feel free to mix things up by adding in some red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, or try different cheeses or veggies for even more flavor. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that turkey can be a bit drier than beef, so you might want to add a bit more milk or a tablespoon of olive oil to keep it moist.
What Can I Use Instead of Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have breadcrumbs on hand, crushed crackers or oats can work well as substitutes! Just use the same amount, and if using oats, consider letting them soak in the milk for a few minutes first to soften.
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Leftover stuffed meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or microwave individual slices for a quick meal!
Can I Freeze the Meatloaf?
Yes! You can freeze the meatloaf before or after baking. If freezing before baking, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time, if necessary.
