This tasty meatloaf has a surprise inside! Packed with gooey mozzarella cheese, it’s both fun and delicious. The outside is golden and serves as a warm welcome to what’s hidden inside.
I love how the cheese melts and adds creaminess to every bite. You can pair it with mashed potatoes or a side salad for a complete meal that feels cozy and satisfying!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80% lean ground beef for a juicy meatloaf. If you prefer a leaner option, 90% lean works, but it may be less juicy. You could also try ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Ground Pork: Adding ground pork gives extra flavor and richness. If you want to skip it, you can just use more ground beef or even replace it with turkey if you prefer a lighter mix.
Breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs help hold the meatloaf together. If you’re gluten-free, try using gluten-free breadcrumbs or even crushed cornflakes! Oats also work for a healthier twist.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a nice flavor depth. If you’re short on Parmesan, you can use grated Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a non-dairy option.
Onion and Garlic: These fresh ingredients enhance flavor significantly. If you don’t have fresh garlic, garlic powder works too. For onion, shallots could be a great substitute.
Cheese: Mozzarella brings that gooey surprise. If you’re curious, try provolone or fontina for a different flavor profile, or use a spicy cheese for a kick!
How Do I Keep the Cheese from Leaking Out?
Sealing the cheese inside the meatloaf is key for that melty reveal. Here’s how:
- Shape the first half of the meat mixture into a rectangle, making sure it’s even.
- Place the cheese carefully over the center, leaving a little space around the edges.
- When adding the second layer of meat, press it down gently but firmly to make a good seal around the cheese.
- Check for any openings; if you see any, pinch the edges together to seal them up.
This way, your cheesy center will stay intact until you slice it! Happy cooking!
Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (80% lean)
- 1/2 pound ground pork (optional for extra flavor)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano or 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, sliced or in a block
For Topping:
- 1 cup marinara sauce or tomato sauce
- Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish (optional)
Time Needed:
This recipe requires about 15-20 minutes for preparation and 60-75 minutes for baking. Don’t forget an extra 10 minutes for resting after baking! In total, you’ll spend about 90 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is essential for baking the meatloaf evenly. If using a loaf pan, lightly grease it or line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork (if using), breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, eggs, milk, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined. Just be careful not to overmix, as this could make the meatloaf tough.
3. Shape the Meatloaf:
Divide the meat mixture in half. On a flat surface or in the loaf pan, shape the first half into a rectangle. This part will create the base layer for the cheese.
4. Add the Mozzarella:
Layer the mozzarella cheese evenly over the first meat layer, leaving about a 1/2 inch margin around the edges. This helps keep that cheesy goodness inside when it bakes.
5. Cover the Cheese:
Carefully cover the cheese layer with the remaining meat mixture. Gently press the edges down to seal everything well—this is key for preventing the cheese from leaking out.
6. Add Marinara Sauce:
Spread the marinara sauce evenly over the top of the meatloaf. You can even sprinkle a few fresh herbs on top for extra aroma.
7. Bake the Meatloaf:
Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for about 60-75 minutes. It’s done when the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). You can use a meat thermometer to be sure!
8. Let It Rest:
Once out of the oven, let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making every slice juicy and tender.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice your meatloaf carefully to reveal that delicious melted mozzarella center. Serve warm with your favorite sides and enjoy this comforting dish!
Bon appétit! Enjoy your delicious Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatloaf with that melty, cheesy surprise inside!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner alternative. Just keep in mind that it may require a bit more seasoning to enhance the flavor, as it tends to be milder than beef.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave it, though the oven keeps it juicier!
Can I Make This Meatloaf Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats. Make sure any seasoning packets you use are also gluten-free.
What Can I Use Instead of Parmesan Cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan on hand, you can use Pecorino Romano for a similar flavor. Alternatively, nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy flavor for a dairy-free option!
