Stuffed Italian Meatloaf

Stuffed Italian Meatloaf is a comforting classic that combines the rich flavors of ground beef and Italian sausage, creating a hearty dish perfect for family dinners or cozy meal prep. The delightful surprise of gooey mozzarella and a hint of marinara sauce tucked inside elevates this meatloaf to something truly special. Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a weekend gathering, this dish not only nourishes but also brings everyone together around the table, making it a favorite in many homes.

What Makes This Recipe Special

Why should you try making Stuffed Italian Meatloaf? There are several compelling reasons! First and foremost, it’s a budget-friendly meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. The use of everyday ingredients means you can whip this up without a trip to specialty stores. Plus, it’s incredibly satisfying and kid-approved, making it an ideal choice for families.

Imagine serving this at a casual dinner with friends or during a cozy Sunday family meal. With every slice, you’re not just providing nourishment; you’re serving a dish that’s packed with flavor and warmth.

"This is my go-to comfort food! My kids can’t get enough of the cheesy surprise inside!" – A happy home cook

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It

Making Stuffed Italian Meatloaf is simple and rewarding! This dish requires a few steps, and once you master them, you’ll feel like a culinary pro. Here’s a quick overview:

1. Preheat your oven to a cozy 375°F.
2. Combine the ingredients in a large mixing bowl.
3. Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and create a well for stuffing.
4. Fill it with gooey cheese, spinach, and marinara sauce.
5. Bake until perfectly done, and allow it to rest before slicing.

Let’s dive into the ingredients next!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to gather for this delicious meatloaf:

• 1 ½ lbs ground beef
• ½ lb ground Italian sausage
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup bread crumbs
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 tbsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tbsp parsley, chopped
• ½ cup milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 cup spinach, chopped (optional)
• ¼ cup marinara sauce
• ½ cup marinara sauce (for topping)
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated (for topping)

For a lighter option, you can substitute ground turkey for the beef and sausage. Enjoy the delightful authentic flavors while tailoring the recipe to your preferences!

Step-by-Step Directions

Now, let’s get cooking:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix the ground beef, Italian sausage, chopped onion, minced garlic, bread crumbs, eggs, grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and parsley.
3. Add the milk, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix until everything is combined well.
4. On a baking sheet, shape the meat mixture into a rectangular loaf (about 9×12 inches).
5. Ready for stuffing! Create a well down the center of the loaf and fill it with shredded mozzarella, chopped spinach (if using), and a spoonful of marinara sauce.
6. Carefully fold the meat around the filling, sealing the edges to form a complete loaf.
7. Spread the remaining marinara sauce on top and sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
9. Once done, let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Best Way to Serve

Stuffed Italian Meatloaf is versatile! For serving suggestions, you might pair it with a side of creamy mashed potatoes for a classic comfort-food experience. A fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness perfectly. If you have leftover marinara sauce, serve it on the side for extra dipping—it’s a crowd-pleaser!

Storage Tips

Wondering about leftovers? Here’s how to keep your Stuffed Italian Meatloaf fresh:

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze sliced meatloaf for up to 3 months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
• Reheating: To reheat, place slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave for a quick option.

Always remember to handle food safely to prevent spoilage!

Expert Advice

When making Stuffed Italian Meatloaf, here are some pro chef tips:

• Don’t over-mix: When combining the meat and ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf.
• Use a meat thermometer: This ensures your meatloaf is perfectly cooked without drying out.
• Experiment with cheese: Feel free to swap mozzarella with provolone or cheddar for different flavor profiles.

Creative Twists

Looking to add a twist to this meatloaf? You can try the following variations:

• Vegetarian version: Substitute meat with plant-based ground meat and add more veggies.
• Spicy kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the mixture for a spicy version.
• Stuffing options: Instead of just mozzarella, mix in some crumbled feta or gooey gouda for an extra flavor hit.

Your Questions Answered

How long does it take to prepare?
Preparation usually takes about 20-30 minutes, with baking time adding another 45-55 minutes.

Can I substitute ground beef?
Yes! Ground turkey or chicken is a great alternative for a lighter dish.

How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers last up to 3 days in the fridge or up to 3 months in the freezer. Always ensure they are stored properly!

Feel free to experiment with this stuffed Italian meatloaf recipe. It’s one of those family favorites that tastes even better the next day!

Stuffed Italian Meatloaf

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• Total Time: 85 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: None

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Description

A comforting classic that combines ground beef and Italian sausage, stuffed with gooey mozzarella and marinara sauce.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 ½ lbs ground beef
• ½ lb ground Italian sausage
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup bread crumbs
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 tbsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tbsp parsley, chopped
• ½ cup milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 cup spinach, chopped (optional)
• ¼ cup marinara sauce
• ½ cup marinara sauce (for topping)
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated (for topping)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix the ground beef, Italian sausage, chopped onion, minced garlic, bread crumbs, eggs, grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and parsley.
3. Add the milk, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix until everything is combined well.
4. On a baking sheet, shape the meat mixture into a rectangular loaf (about 9×12 inches).
5. Create a well down the center of the loaf and fill it with shredded mozzarella, chopped spinach (if using), and a spoonful of marinara sauce.
6. Carefully fold the meat around the filling, sealing the edges to form a complete loaf.
7. Spread the remaining marinara sauce on top and sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
9. Once done, let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Notes

Serves well with mashed potatoes or a fresh salad. Great for leftovers!

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 55 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 150mg

Keywords: meatloaf, stuffed, Italian, comfort food, dinner