Stuffed Meatloaf with Mozzarella: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Recipe

Stuffed Meatloaf with Mozzarella is a delightful twist on a classic comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to any dinner table. Growing up, my family often enjoyed meatloaf, but it was the addition of gooey mozzarella that truly elevated this dish to a new level of deliciousness. This recipe not only pays homage to the traditional meatloaf but also adds a modern flair that makes it irresistible.

People love Stuffed Meatloaf with Mozzarella for its incredible taste and texture; the savory meat combined with the melty cheese creates a mouthwatering experience that is hard to resist. Plus, it’s a convenient dish that can be prepared ahead of time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Join me as we dive into this scrumptious recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your home!

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef (80/20 blend for best flavor)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian seasoned)
• 1 large egg
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup cooked spinach, squeezed dry and chopped (optional)
• ½ cup marinara sauce (plus more for serving)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparing the Meatloaf Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, and egg. This will serve as the base of your meatloaf.
2. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the bowl. These ingredients will add moisture and flavor to the meatloaf.
3. Pour in the Worcestershire sauce, and sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, and dried Italian herbs. Mix everything together using your hands or a spatula until well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.

Preparing the Filling

1. If you’re using spinach, make sure it’s cooked and squeezed dry to remove excess moisture. Chop it finely and set it aside.
2. In a separate bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella cheese and the chopped spinach (if using). You can also add a couple of tablespoons of marinara sauce to the mixture for extra flavor.

Assembling the Stuffed Meatloaf

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your meatloaf cooks evenly.
2. On a large piece of parchment paper or plastic wrap, spread the meatloaf mixture into a rectangle, about 1 inch thick. Aim for a size of approximately 10×12 inches.
3. Once you have your rectangle, spoon the mozzarella and spinach mixture down the center of the meatloaf. Make sure to leave some space at the edges to prevent the filling from spilling out during cooking.
4. Using the parchment paper or plastic wrap, carefully lift one side of the meatloaf and fold it over the filling. Gently press the edges to seal the meatloaf, ensuring that the filling is enclosed. If you have any cracks, just pinch them together.

Cooking the Meatloaf

1. Transfer the stuffed meatloaf to a baking dish or a lined baking sheet. If you want, you can shape it into a loaf shape for a more traditional look.
2. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce over the top of the meatloaf. This will keep it moist and add flavor as it bakes.
3. Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). If you have a meat thermometer, this is the best way to ensure it’s cooked through.
4. Halfway through baking, you can brush on more marinara sauce if you like a saucier top.

Resting and Serving

1. Once the meatloaf is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, making the meatloaf more flavorful and easier to slice.
2. After resting, carefully transfer the meatloaf to a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to slice it into thick pieces, about 1 inch wide.
3. Serve the stuffed meatloaf warm, drizzled with additional marinara sauce if desired. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Tips for Success

• For a spicier kick, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.
• If you want to make this dish ahead of

  Conclusion:

  In summary, this Stuffed Meatloaf with Mozzarella is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their dinner game. The combination of savory ground meat, rich mozzarella, and a medley of spices creates a flavor explosion that is sure to impress your family and friends. Not only is it delicious, but it also offers a comforting, home-cooked feel that makes it perfect for any occasion, from a cozy weeknight dinner to a festive gathering. For serving suggestions, I recommend pairing this meatloaf with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a classic meal. You can also serve it with a fresh garden salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette to add a refreshing contrast. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider variations like adding sautéed mushrooms or roasted red peppers to the stuffing for an extra layer of flavor. You could even experiment with different cheeses, such as cheddar or pepper jack, to give it a unique twist. I encourage you to try this Stuffed Meatloaf with Mozzarella in your own kitchen. I promise you won’t be disappointed! Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience. Share your thoughts, any modifications you made, or even a photo of your creation. Let’s spread the love for this delicious recipe together! Happy cooking! Print
  

  Stuffed Meatloaf with Mozzarella: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Recipe

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  • Author: Dottie
  • Total Time: 75 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

  Print Recipe

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  Description

  This stuffed meatloaf features savory ground beef enveloping a cheesy spinach filling, all topped with marinara sauce. It’s a comforting and impressive dish perfect for family dinners, and can be customized with various fillings to suit your taste.

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  Ingredients

  Scale 1x2x3x

  • 1 ½ pounds ground beef (80/20 blend for best flavor)
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian seasoned)
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup cooked spinach, squeezed dry and chopped (optional)
  • ½ cup marinara sauce (plus more for serving)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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  Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, and egg. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Pour in the Worcestershire sauce, and sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, and dried Italian herbs. Mix everything together until well combined, being careful not to overmix.
  2. If using spinach, ensure it’s cooked and squeezed dry. Chop it finely and set aside. In a separate bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella cheese and chopped spinach (if using). Optionally, add a couple of tablespoons of marinara sauce for extra flavor.
  3. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). On a large piece of parchment paper or plastic wrap, spread the meatloaf mixture into a rectangle, about 1 inch thick (approximately 10×12 inches). Spoon the mozzarella and spinach mixture down the center of the meatloaf. Carefully lift one side of the meatloaf and fold it over the filling, pressing the edges to seal.
  4. Transfer the stuffed meatloaf to a baking dish or lined baking sheet. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce over the top. Bake for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). Brush on more marinara sauce halfway through baking if desired.
  5. Once done, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. Transfer to a cutting board and slice into thick pieces. Serve warm, drizzled with additional marinara sauce and garnished with freshly chopped parsley.

  Notes

  • For a spicier kick, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.
  • You can prepare the meatloaf mixture and filling a day in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator.
  • Customize the filling with other ingredients like sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or different types of cheese.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 60 minutes