Stuffed Italian Meatloaf Recipe

Introduction

Stuffed Italian meatloaf is a hearty and flavorful dish that brings comforting Italian flavors right to your dinner table. Filled with melted cheese and savory herbs, it’s perfect for cozy family meals or special occasions. This recipe is straightforward and sure to impress anyone you serve it to.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup marinara sauce (plus more for topping)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• Optional: sliced pepperoni or prosciutto for stuffing

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Step 2: In a skillet, sauté the chopped onions and garlic over medium heat until translucent, about 5 minutes. Allow to cool slightly.
3. Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, basil, sautéed onion and garlic, eggs, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Step 4: Mix all ingredients gently until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.
5. Step 5: On a sheet of parchment paper, shape the meat mixture into a rectangle about 1 inch thick.
6. Step 6: Spread shredded mozzarella evenly over the top, leaving a small border. Add slices of pepperoni or prosciutto if desired.
7. Step 7: Using the parchment paper, carefully roll the meat into a log, enclosing the cheese and fillings inside.
8. Step 8: Transfer the rolled meatloaf seam side down onto the prepared baking sheet.
9. Step 9: Spoon additional marinara sauce over the top for extra flavor.
10. Step 10: Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
11. Step 11: Remove from the oven and let rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing to retain moisture.

Tips & Variations

• Use fresh basil and parsley for brighter, fresher flavors compared to dried herbs.
• Keep a meat thermometer handy to ensure the meatloaf is safely cooked to 160°F (70°C).
• Add sautéed bell peppers or carrots in the mix for extra moisture and flavor.
• Try glazing the top with marinara mixed with a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar for a tangy finish.
• For a vegetarian version, swap the meat for cooked lentils or a plant-based alternative.
• Incorporate different cheeses like goat cheese or cheddar for varied tastes.
• Add sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes if you enjoy a spicy kick.
• Mix in grated zucchini or carrots for added nutrition.

Storage

Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. For longer storage, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place in a freezer bag; freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently in the oven or microwave.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

What if I don’t have marinara sauce?

You can substitute any tomato-based sauce or even BBQ sauce for a different flavor twist.

Can I use other meats?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as lighter alternatives while maintaining good flavor.

Stuffed Italian Meatloaf Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 51 reviews

Stuffed Italian meatloaf is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines ground meat with savory Italian herbs, garlic, and melted cheese. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe features a delicious blend of beef (or beef and pork), fresh herbs, and a cheesy filling, baked to perfection and topped with marinara sauce. It’s easy to prepare, offers flexibility for various filling options, and results in a comforting, nostalgic meal that impresses with every bite.

• Author: Dylan
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meatloaf Mixture

• 2 pounds ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup marinara sauce (plus more for topping)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Filling

• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• Optional: sliced pepperoni or prosciutto for stuffing

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the finely chopped onions and minced garlic until translucent, approximately 5 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly before mixing.
3. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, chopped basil, sautéed onion and garlic, eggs, 1 cup marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix gently using hands or a wooden spoon to incorporate everything without overworking the meat.
4. Shape the Loaf: On a parchment paper sheet, spread the meat mixture into a rectangle about 1 inch thick, forming an even layer.
5. Add Filling: Evenly spread the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the meat rectangle, leaving a small border around the edges. If desired, add sliced pepperoni or prosciutto on top of the cheese for extra flavor.
6. Roll the Meatloaf: Carefully roll the meat mixture into a log shape using the parchment paper, enclosing the cheese and any additional stuffing inside the loaf.
7. Transfer to Baking Sheet: Place the rolled meatloaf seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet to keep it intact during baking.
8. Top with Marinara Sauce: Spoon extra marinara sauce generously over the top of the meatloaf to enhance flavor and moisture.
9. Bake: Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes or until fully cooked, reaching an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).
10. Rest: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 15-20 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender slice.

Notes

• Use fresh basil and parsley for best flavor; dried herbs can be used but fresh herbs brighten the dish.
• Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure safe cooking (160°F/70°C).
• Add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or carrots to the meat mixture for extra moisture and flavor.
• For a tangy glaze, mix marinara sauce with a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar and brush on top before baking.
• Experiment with spices like red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for a spicy or smoky flavor.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated up to 4-5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
• Use parchment paper to easily roll and transfer the meatloaf without sticking.

Keywords: stuffed meatloaf, Italian meatloaf recipe, baked meatloaf, ground beef meatloaf, cheesy meatloaf, family dinner, comfort food, Italian herbs, marinara meatloaf