Name: Stuffed Italian Meatloaf
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 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; ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated

Delicious stuffed Italian meatloaf served with herbs and marinara sauce

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Why Make This Recipe

Stuffed Italian Meatloaf is a delicious twist on the classic meatloaf. This recipe combines ground beef and Italian sausage, making it hearty and flavorful. The melted mozzarella cheese in the center adds a creamy texture that everyone loves. Plus, it’s a fun way to sneak in some greens with spinach. It’s perfect for a family dinner and can be served with your favorite sides.

How to Make Stuffed Italian Meatloaf

Ingredients:

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
¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated

Directions:

Preheat oven to 375°F.
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, Italian sausage, onion, garlic, bread crumbs, eggs, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and parsley. Add milk, salt, and pepper, then mix until fully combined.
On a baking sheet, form the meat mixture into a rectangular loaf (about 9×12 inches).
Create a well in the center of the meatloaf and stuff it with mozzarella cheese, spinach (if using), and a spoonful of marinara sauce.
Carefully fold the meat around the filling, sealing the edges to form a loaf.
Spread the remaining marinara sauce on top of the meatloaf and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Serve with extra marinara sauce, if desired.

How to Serve Stuffed Italian Meatloaf

You can serve Stuffed Italian Meatloaf warm, sliced, and topped with extra marinara sauce. Pair it with a side of mashed potatoes, garlic bread, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. It also makes a great filling for a hearty sandwich the next day.

How to Store Stuffed Italian Meatloaf

After it cools down, store any leftover Stuffed Italian Meatloaf in an airtight container in the fridge. It should stay fresh for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer bag.

Tips to Make Stuffed Italian Meatloaf

Mix the meat mixture gently to avoid a tough loaf.
You can add other fillings like roasted red peppers or olives for extra flavor.
If you prefer a spicier version, try using spicy Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes.

Variation

For a lighter version, substitute the ground beef with turkey or chicken. You can also omit the sausage if you want to reduce fat.

FAQs

Can I make Stuffed Italian Meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf up to the point of baking and then cover it and store it in the fridge for a day. Just add extra baking time if it’s cold when you put it in the oven.

What other cheeses can I use?
You can use provolone, fontina, or even pepper jack cheese for a little kick.

Can I use different herbs?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs or use fresh herbs instead of dried ones for a brighter flavor.