Stuffed Italian Meatloaf: Prepare to experience meatloaf like never before! Forget everything you thought you knew about this classic comfort food because we're about to elevate it to a whole new level of deliciousness. Imagine sinking your fork into a juicy, savory meatloaf, only to discover a hidden treasure of melted mozzarella, tangy marinara, and flavorful Italian sausage nestled within. Intrigued? You should be!

Meatloaf itself has humble origins, tracing back to medieval Europe as a way to use leftover scraps of meat. Over time, it migrated to America and became a staple in households across the nation, a symbol of resourceful cooking and family dinners. But this isn't your grandma's plain old meatloaf. We're taking inspiration from the vibrant flavors of Italy to create a truly unforgettable dish.

What makes this Stuffed Italian Meatloaf so irresistible? It's the perfect combination of textures and tastes. The tender, seasoned ground beef provides a hearty base, while the gooey cheese and rich sauce add a burst of flavor that will tantalize your taste buds. Plus, it's surprisingly easy to make! This recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal or a weekend gathering, and it's guaranteed to impress your family and friends. Get ready to transform a classic into a culinary masterpiece!

Ingredients:

For the Meatloaf:

2 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend recommended for flavor)
1 lb ground Italian sausage (sweet or hot, your preference!)
1 cup breadcrumbs (Italian seasoned preferred, but plain works too)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup milk
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Stuffing:

8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced (about 1/4 inch thick)
1/2 cup ricotta cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
1 clove garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon black pepper

For the Sauce:

1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
1/2 cup water
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick!)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Preparing the Meatloaf Mixture:

Okay, let's get started! First, we need to create the base for our amazing stuffed meatloaf. This is where all the delicious flavors come together.

Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic! Burnt garlic is no fun. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Combine the Meats: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef and ground Italian sausage. I like to use my hands for this, but be careful not to overmix, as that can make the meatloaf tough.
Add the Remaining Ingredients: Add the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, eggs, milk, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to the bowl with the meat. Pour in the cooled onion and garlic mixture.
Mix Gently: Using your hands or a large spoon, gently mix all the ingredients together until just combined. Again, be careful not to overmix! We want a tender meatloaf, not a hockey puck.

Preparing the Stuffing:

Now for the fun part – the cheesy, flavorful stuffing that will make this meatloaf truly special!

Combine the Cheeses: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, basil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly distributed.
Set Aside: This cheesy mixture is ready to go! Just set it aside for now; we'll use it shortly.

Assembling the Stuffed Meatloaf:

This is where the magic happens! We're going to create a pocket in the meatloaf to hold all that delicious stuffing.

Prepare the Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. This will make cleanup a breeze!
Divide the Meatloaf Mixture: Divide the meatloaf mixture in half.
Form the Base: On the prepared baking sheet, gently press one half of the meatloaf mixture into a large rectangle, about 1 inch thick. This will be the base of your meatloaf. Make sure it's even so the meatloaf cooks evenly.
Create the Well: Using your hands, create a well in the center of the meatloaf base, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges. This is where the stuffing will go.
Add the Ricotta Mixture: Spread the ricotta cheese mixture evenly into the well you created.
Layer the Mozzarella: Arrange the mozzarella cheese slices over the ricotta mixture, covering it completely. Don't be shy with the cheese!
Top with the Remaining Meatloaf: Gently place the remaining half of the meatloaf mixture on top of the cheese, carefully sealing the edges to enclose the stuffing completely. Pinch the edges together firmly to prevent the cheese from leaking out during baking.
Shape the Meatloaf: Gently shape the meatloaf into a loaf shape. You can smooth the top and sides with your hands.

Making the Sauce:

A good sauce is essential for a great meatloaf! This simple tomato sauce is packed with flavor and will keep the meatloaf moist and delicious.

Sauté Garlic (Optional): In a medium saucepan, heat the 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 minced clove of garlic (optional, but adds a nice depth of flavor) and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
Combine Ingredients: Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, water, oregano, basil, garlic powder, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper to the saucepan.
Simmer: Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will allow the flavors to meld together.

Baking the Meatloaf:

Almost there! Now it's time to bake our masterpiece.

Pour Sauce Over Meatloaf: Pour about half of the tomato sauce over the meatloaf, spreading it evenly. Reserve the remaining sauce for serving.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 60-75 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure it's cooked through.
Rest: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meatloaf.

Serving:

The moment we've all been waiting for! Time to slice and enjoy your incredible stuffed Italian meatloaf.

Slice: Slice the meatloaf into thick slices.
Serve: Serve the meatloaf with the remaining tomato sauce spooned over the top.
Sides: This meatloaf is delicious served with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, pasta, or a simple salad.

Tips and Variations:

Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses in the stuffing. Provolone, fontina, or even a blend of Italian cheeses would be delicious.
Vegetable Additions: Add some chopped vegetables to the meatloaf mixture for extra flavor and nutrients. Diced bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots would work well.
Spice it Up: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meatloaf mixture or the stuffing.
Breadcrumb Options: If you don't have Italian seasoned breadcrumbs, you can use plain breadcrumbs and add a teaspoon of Italian seasoning to the meatloaf mixture. Panko breadcrumbs will also work, but they will give the meatloaf a slightly different texture.
Make Ahead: You can assemble the meatloaf ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap.
Freezing: Cooked meatloaf can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs in the meatloaf and stuffing. Fresh rosemary, thyme, or sage would all be delicious additions.
Serving Suggestion: Serve with a

Conclusion:
This isn't just meatloaf; it's an experience! The Stuffed Italian Meatloaf is a symphony of flavors and textures, a comforting classic elevated to something truly special. From the juicy, seasoned ground meat to the gooey, cheesy center bursting with Italian goodness, every bite is a delight. I truly believe this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to impress their family and friends with a dish that's both familiar and exciting. Why is it a must-try? Because it's incredibly flavorful, surprisingly easy to make, and endlessly customizable. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner that feels like a weekend feast. The combination of savory meat, tangy tomato sauce, and creamy mozzarella is simply irresistible. Plus, the stuffing adds an extra layer of deliciousness that takes this meatloaf from ordinary to extraordinary. Forget dry, bland meatloaf – this recipe delivers moist, tender perfection every single time. But the fun doesn't stop there! This Stuffed Italian Meatloaf is incredibly versatile. Serve it with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables for a classic comfort meal. Or, slice it thinly and use it for hearty sandwiches on crusty Italian bread. For a lighter option, serve it with a fresh salad and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Looking for variations? Get creative with the stuffing! Add some sautéed mushrooms and onions for an earthy flavor. Or, incorporate some chopped spinach and ricotta cheese for a healthier twist. You could even experiment with different types of cheese, like provolone or fontina. Don't be afraid to personalize the recipe to your own taste preferences. If you are feeling adventurous, try adding some spicy Italian sausage to the meat mixture for an extra kick! Another great idea is to use different types of ground meat, such as ground turkey or chicken, for a leaner version. The possibilities are truly endless!
Serving Suggestions:
* With a side of garlic mashed potatoes and green beans. * Sliced and served on toasted ciabatta bread with pesto and provolone. * As a hearty topping for pasta with marinara sauce. * Alongside a fresh Caprese salad. * As leftovers, crumbled into a frittata or omelet. I'm confident that you'll love this recipe as much as I do. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that's perfect for any occasion. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece. I can't wait to hear about your experience making this Stuffed Italian Meatloaf! Please, give it a try and share your photos and feedback in the comments below. Let me know what variations you tried and how your family enjoyed it. Happy cooking! I am sure you will find this recipe to be a new family favorite. Don't forget to rate the recipe once you've tried it! Your feedback helps other home cooks discover this amazing dish. Enjoy!
Stuffed Italian Meatloaf: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
A flavorful meatloaf stuffed with mozzarella, pepperoni, and a rich tomato sauce. Perfect for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time45 minutes
Total Time1 hour 35 minutes
Category: Dinner
Yield: 6-8 servings
Save This Recipe
Ingredients
Ingredients: 1 1/2 pounds ground beef 1/2 pound ground Italian sausage 1 cup breadcrumbs 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 egg, beaten 1 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 6 slices provolone cheese 1/2 cup marinara sauce
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1/2 pound ground Italian sausage
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 6 slices provolone cheese
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce
Instructions
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1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, Italian sausage, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, eggs, onion, garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
3. Mix well with your hands until everything is evenly distributed.
4. On a large sheet of parchment paper, flatten the meat mixture into a large rectangle, about 1 inch thick.
5. Layer the mozzarella cheese slices evenly over the meat.
6. Carefully roll the meatloaf up, jelly-roll style, using the parchment paper to help you.
7. Pinch the ends and seam to seal.
8. Transfer the meatloaf to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
9. Bake for 60-75 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees F (70 degrees C).
10. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
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Notes
- For best results, let the meatloaf rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meatloaf.
- Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese in the filling. Provolone, mozzarella, or even a spicy pepper jack would all be delicious.
- If you don't have Italian seasoning, you can make your own by combining equal parts dried oregano, basil, rosemary, thyme, and marjoram.

Stuffed Italian Meatloaf: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe