How to Make Stuffed Meatloaf with Mozzarella

Stuffed Meatloaf with Mozzarella is a delightful twist on the classic comfort dish, combining juicy, seasoned ground beef with a rich, gooey mozzarella center that melts perfectly into every bite. This recipe offers the perfect balance of savory flavors and satisfying textures, making it an ideal meal for family dinners or special occasions. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or new to meatloaf, this easy, cheesy stuffed meatloaf brings excitement and warmth to your dinner table with every slice.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Cheesy Center Magic: The mozzarella filling adds an irresistible creamy surprise in the middle of the meatloaf.
• Juicy and Flavorful: Combining beef with seasonings and moisture ensures every bite is tender and packed with flavor.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses everyday pantry staples that come together effortlessly for a homemade meal.
• Family Favorite: This recipe appeals to both kids and adults, perfect for cozy dinners and meal prep.
• Customizable: Easily adapts to your favorite herbs, spices, and add-ins to suit your tastes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the perfect stuffed meatloaf with mozzarella starts with a simple yet thoughtfully selected set of ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in creating the right texture, succulence, and rich cheese pull.

• Ground Beef (85% lean): Provides hearty flavor with enough fat to keep the meat moist.
• Shredded Mozzarella: The creamy center that melts beautifully inside the loaf.
• Breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meat and keep it tender by absorbing juices.
• Egg: Acts as a natural binder to hold everything together.
• Onion (finely chopped): Adds sweetness and depth of flavor throughout the meatloaf.
• Garlic (minced): Infuses aromatic warmth into the mix.
• Ketchup: For a touch of tang and moisture on top and in the mixture.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Enhances savory umami notes.
• Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that brightens the overall flavor.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Essential to season perfectly.

Variations for Stuffed Meatloaf with Mozzarella

Feel free to get creative and customize this stuffed meatloaf with mozzarella recipe. It’s a versatile dish that adapts seamlessly to different tastes and dietary needs, making it easy to make your own.

• Turkey or Chicken Meat: Substitute ground beef for leaner poultry options for a lighter version.
• Veggie Boost: Incorporate finely diced bell peppers or spinach to add color and nutrients.
• Different Cheeses: Swap mozzarella for pepper jack or provolone for unique cheese flavors.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the filling or meat mix.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed nuts instead of traditional breadcrumbs.

How to Make Stuffed Meatloaf with Mozzarella

Step 1: Prepare the Meat Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, chopped onion, garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix gently by hand or with a spoon until everything is evenly combined, being careful not to overwork the meat so it stays tender.

Step 2: Shape the Base Layer

On a piece of parchment paper or a lined baking pan, spread half of the meat mixture into a rectangular shape about 1-inch thick, ensuring even thickness for consistent cooking.

Step 3: Add the Mozzarella Filling

Evenly distribute the shredded mozzarella over the base layer, leaving a small border around the edges to prevent cheese leakage during baking.

Step 4: Top with Remaining Meat

Gently spread the remaining half of the meat mixture on top of the mozzarella, sealing the edges by pinching the layers together to fully encase the cheese inside.

Step 5: Prepare the Topping

Brush the top of the meatloaf with a thin layer of ketchup or your favorite glaze. This adds moisture and creates a delicious caramelized crust as it bakes.

Step 6: Bake the Meatloaf

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake your stuffed meatloaf with mozzarella for about 60 to 75 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F and the outside is golden brown.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Let the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute and prevent the cheese from spilling out.

Pro Tips for Making Stuffed Meatloaf with Mozzarella

• Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensures perfectly cooked meatloaf without overbaking or undercooking.
• Don’t Overmix: Mixing meat too much can make the meatloaf dense and tough—combine just enough to blend.
• Seal the Edges Well: Prevent cheese from leaking out during baking by pinching the edges tightly together.
• Rest Before Slicing: Helps keep the meatloaf juicy and the cheese inside intact after baking.
• Customize the Cheese Amount: Adjust mozzarella quantity to suit your love for gooey cheese or a lighter melt.

How to Serve Stuffed Meatloaf with Mozzarella

Garnishes

Scatter freshly chopped parsley or basil over the sliced meatloaf for a fresh herbaceous touch and a pop of color that brightens the plate.

Side Dishes

Pair the stuffed meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad to balance the rich and cheesy main course beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve sliced meatloaf topped with a drizzle of marinara or a balsamic glaze for an extra flavor boost; you can also pile slices on toasted buns for hearty meatloaf sandwiches.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover slices tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator; they stay fresh for up to 4 days and reheat wonderfully.

Freezing

Wrap the entire cooked stuffed meatloaf in foil and place in a freezer-safe bag if freezing the whole loaf, or freeze sliced portions individually; it freezes well for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers covered in the oven at 325°F until warmed through or microwave slices on medium power to prevent drying out while melting the mozzarella filling again.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese for the stuffed meatloaf?

Absolutely! While mozzarella creates that classic gooey center, you can try provolone, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack for a different twist.

How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out during cooking?

Make sure to seal the edges of the meatloaf tightly by pinching the meat together around the cheese filling, and leave a little border around the cheese layer to avoid leakage.

Is it necessary to use breadcrumbs in the meatloaf?

Breadcrumbs help bind the meatloaf and keep it moist by absorbing juices; if you’re avoiding gluten, you can substitute with gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the raw meatloaf up to a day ahead, cover it, and refrigerate before baking; this makes dinner prep quicker on busy days.

What can I serve with stuffed meatloaf for a complete meal?

Classic sides include mashed potatoes, steamed greens, roasted root vegetables, or a fresh garden salad to complement the rich flavors of the meatloaf.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a new spin on a classic family favorite, this stuffed meatloaf with mozzarella is bound to become a regular on your dinner rotation. Easy to make, packed with flavor, and incredibly satisfying, it delivers cheesy comfort in every slice. Give it a try and watch it disappear from the dinner plate with happy smiles all around.

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