Looking for a delicious and easy recipe that’s perfect for any occasion? Look no further than this Stuffed Italian Meatloaf! Packed with flavorful ingredients and a cheesy surprise in the center, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
- The combination of ground beef and Italian sausage creates a rich and savory flavor.
- Quick and simple prep time makes this recipe perfect for busy weeknights.
- The gooey mozzarella cheese filling adds a delightful twist to traditional meatloaf.
Ingredient Notes:
Meatloaf:
- Ground beef and ground Italian sausage create a flavorful base.
- Onion and garlic add depth and fragrance.
- Bread crumbs and eggs bind everything together.
- Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, parsley, and milk elevate the flavors.
- Salt and pepper to taste for seasoning.
Filling:
- Shredded mozzarella cheese adds a gooey surprise.
- Chopped spinach (optional) adds a pop of color and nutrients.
- Marinara sauce brings a classic Italian touch.
Topping:
- More marinara sauce and grated Parmesan cheese for a finishing touch.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- In a bowl, mix together the ground beef, Italian sausage, onion, garlic, bread crumbs, eggs, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, parsley, and milk.
- On a baking sheet, shape half of the meat mixture into a loaf shape.
- Make a well in the center and fill it with mozzarella cheese, spinach, and marinara sauce.
- Cover the filling with the remaining meat mixture and shape into a loaf.
- Top with more marinara sauce and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
- Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Helpful Tips:
- Use lean ground beef for a healthier option.
- Make sure to fully cook the meatloaf to avoid any food safety issues.
- Customize the filling with your favorite ingredients like mushrooms or bell peppers.
- Leftovers can be sliced and used in sandwiches or pasta dishes.
Expert Tips for the Best Results:
- Don’t overmix the meat mixture to keep the meatloaf tender.
- Let the meatloaf rest before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Brush the meatloaf with olive oil before baking for a golden crust.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this Stuffed Italian Meatloaf with a side of garlic mashed potatoes and a garden salad for a complete meal. Pair it with a glass of red wine or a refreshing iced tea.
Storage and Reheating Tips:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use turkey instead of ground beef? Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for a lighter option.
- Can I freeze the meatloaf? Yes, you can freeze the uncooked meatloaf for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.
- What other fillings can I use? Get creative with fillings like sautéed mushrooms, diced bell peppers, or even cooked bacon.
Conclusion:
Try this Stuffed Italian Meatloaf recipe for a comforting and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. Don’t forget to share your feedback and enjoy the delicious flavors of this dish!
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Stuffed Italian Meatloaf
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 mins
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main-course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Stuffed Italian Meatloaf is a flavorful twist on a classic dish, featuring a juicy meatloaf filled with gooey mozzarella cheese and savory spinach. Topped with marinara sauce and Parmesan cheese, it’s a comforting and hearty meal perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Meatloaf:
- 1 1/2 lbs ground beef
- 1/2 lb ground Italian sausage
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup bread crumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tbsp parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Filling:
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup spinach, chopped (optional)
- 1/4 cup marinara sauce
Topping:
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatloaf: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, Italian sausage, onion, garlic, bread crumbs, eggs, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, parsley, milk, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Assemble the Meatloaf: Flatten the meat mixture into a rectangle shape. Layer mozzarella cheese, spinach, and marinara sauce on top. Roll up the meatloaf, sealing the edges.
- Bake: Place the meatloaf in a baking dish and top with marinara sauce and Parmesan cheese. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 1 hour or until cooked through.
Notes
- Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite ingredients like peppers, mushrooms, or different cheeses.
- Let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing to allow the cheese to set.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg