Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the comforting aroma of Italian Meatloaf fills the kitchen, it feels like a warm hug after a long day. This Stuffed Italian Meatloaf with Cheesy Filling is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of family and cherished traditions, packed with savory herbs and melted cheese that tantalize the taste buds. With its easy preparation, it’s perfect for those busy weekdays or special gatherings where you want to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s highly customizable, allowing you to add your favorite ingredients or sneak in some veggies for a nutritional boost. Are you ready to discover how to elevate your dinner game with this hearty masterpiece? Let’s dive in! Why is Italian Meatloaf so irresistible? Comforting, cozy meals at home don’t get better than this! Savory Flavors of Italian herbs and spices shine through every bite. Cheesy Surprise: The gooey cheese filling transforms an ordinary meatloaf into an extraordinary treat. Easy to Customize: Add your favorite ingredients or veggies to suit your taste. Meal Prep Friendly: Make it ahead and store for a quick, satisfying dinner option. Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a small gathering, this dish will impress everyone! Italian Meatloaf Ingredients For the Meatloaf • Ground Beef – Use 80/20 for a juicy, flavorful base. • Breadcrumbs – Keep the meatloaf tender; gluten-free options work well too. • Eggs – Act as a binder to keep your meatloaf moist and cohesive. • Garlic Powder – Adds a depth of flavor that elevates the dish. • Onion Powder – Enhances the overall savoriness of the meatloaf. • Italian Seasoning – A necessary blend of herbs for authentic Italian flavor in the meatloaf. • Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning, boosting all the taste components. For the Cheesy Filling • Mozzarella Cheese – Delivers a creamy, dreamy surprise in each slice. • Parmesan Cheese – Imparts a sharp, nutty note, enriching the overall flavor. • Spinach (optional) – Adds nutrients and beautiful green color; can be substituted with herbs. For Serving • Marinara Sauce – Essential for a rich tomato accompaniment that complements the Italian Meatloaf. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Stuffed Italian Meatloaf with Cheesy Filling Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin your cooking journey by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is key for achieving that golden, crispy exterior while ensuring the inside stays juicy and flavorful. As it heats, make sure to gather all your ingredients for an organized cooking experience. Step 2: Prepare the Meat Mixture In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands or a spatula until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender. This savory blend forms the delicious base for your Italian meatloaf. Step 3: Create the Cheesy Filling In a separate bowl, blend together the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and optional spinach. The combination of these ingredients adds that creamy, cheesy surprise that makes this Stuffed Italian Meatloaf irresistible. Make sure the mixture is well combined and set it aside for easy assembly later. Step 4: Shape the Meatloaf Lay a sheet of parchment paper on your countertop and flatten the meat mixture into a rectangle, about 1 inch thick. This is crucial for rolling! Ensure it’s even, allowing for a consistent cook throughout. Once shaped, you’re ready to spread the cheesy filling evenly across the meat. Step 5: Fill and Roll Spread the cheesy filling mixture evenly over the meat rectangle, leaving about a half-inch border. Starting from one edge, roll the meat tightly away from you, keeping the filling inside. Use the parchment to help guide the roll and seal the edges tightly to avoid any cheese leaks during baking. Step 6: Prepare for Baking Carefully transfer the rolled meatloaf seam-side down onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This placement will help it cook evenly while catching any drips. Now, it’s time to pop the Stuffed Italian Meatloaf into the oven and let it bake for 45-50 minutes until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). Step 7: Add the Marinara Sauce As the last 10 minutes of baking approaches, remove the meatloaf from the oven. Generously ladle marinara sauce over the top of your beautiful meatloaf. This adds extra flavor and moisture, ensuring a vibrant finish that perfectly complements the rich Italian Meatloaf flavors. Step 8: Rest and Serve Once done, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful meatloaf. Now it’s time to slice and serve your Stuffed Italian Meatloaf with Cheesy Filling, paired beautifully with additional marinara for dipping! Expert Tips for Italian Meatloaf Avoid Overmixing: Mixing too much can lead to a tough texture. Just combine until ingredients are integrated for tender meatloaf. Seal the Edges: Ensure the meatloaf is rolled tightly with well-sealed edges to prevent the delicious cheese from leaking out during baking. Use a Thermometer: Invest in a meat thermometer to accurately check doneness; aim for an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for safe and juicy results. Add Veggies: Consider finely chopping bell peppers or mushrooms to mix into the meat for extra flavor and nutrients without compromising the integrity of your Italian Meatloaf. Rest Before Slicing: Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes after baking; this lets the juices redistribute, resulting in more flavorful slices. Customize Your Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses for the filling—adding cheddar or provolone can elevate the flavor profile even further. How to Store and Freeze Italian Meatloaf Room Temperature: Allow the meatloaf to cool completely before storing at room temperature for up to 2 hours; it’s best not to leave it out longer to maintain freshness. Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in the microwave or oven until warmed through, adding a splash of marinara for moisture. Freezer: Wrap the unbaked Italian Meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking to enjoy freshly made meatloaf whenever you desire. Reheating: For baked leftovers, slice the meatloaf and reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through and delicious! Italian Meatloaf Variations & Substitutions Want to make this Italian Meatloaf your own? Here are some delightful ideas to customize your dish! Turkey Swap: Replace ground beef with ground turkey for a leaner option while still keeping all the flavor. Vegetarian Twist: Use lentils or black beans instead of meat, mixing in your favorite veggies to create a hearty veggie meatloaf. Different Cheeses: Swap mozzarella for provolone or gouda for a unique flavor; each cheese brings its own personality to the dish. Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the meat mixture for a spicy twist that will warm your hearts. Herbal Infusion: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can replace dried Italian seasoning for an aromatic boost that’s fresh and vibrant. Veggie-Packed: Incorporate finely chopped bell peppers or grated zucchini directly into the meat mixture for a nutritious and colorful addition. Mediterranean Flair: Mix in some chopped olives or sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean-inspired take on this comfort food classic. Remember, the beauty of cooking lies in exploring flavors and creating a dish that suits your family’s preferences. This Dairy-Free Meatloaf or that Gluten-Free Bread recipe might just inspire your next glorious creation! Enjoy your cooking adventures! Make Ahead Options These Stuffed Italian Meatloaf with Cheesy Filling recipes are perfect for meal prep! You can assemble the entire meatloaf and refrigerate it up to 24 hours in advance without compromising flavor or texture. Simply prepare the meat mixture and the cheesy filling according to the recipe, then roll and seal the meatloaf. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, refrigerate, and when you’re ready to serve, just pop it in the preheated oven straight from the fridge for baking. This approach not only saves you precious time during busy weeknights but also ensures your Italian Meatloaf remains just as delicious and satisfying for your family! What to Serve with Stuffed Italian Meatloaf? As the comforting aroma of this hearty meatloaf fills the kitchen, it’s easy to imagine the delightful pairings that will elevate your meal to perfection. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their velvety texture complements the savory meatloaf beautifully, providing a classic comfort on your plate. Roasted Vegetables: Crisp-tender veggies add color and nutrition, enhancing the overall meal while balancing the richness of the meat. Fresh Green Salad: A light, crisp salad brings a refreshing contrast, offering bright flavors that cut through the meatloaf’s richness. Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery slices of garlic bread are perfect for soaking up extra marinara, adding a delicious crunch to each bite. Extra Marinara Sauce: Serve alongside for dipping or drizzling, enriching every slice with robust tomato flavor and a lovely moisture. Italian Wine: A smooth Chianti pairs wonderfully with the meatloaf, enhancing the meal with its depth and complementing the flavors of Italian cuisine. Pairing these delightful accompaniments with your Stuffed Italian Meatloaf will undoubtedly make for a memorable dinner experience, filled with warmth and flavor. Enjoy! Stuffed Italian Meatloaf with Cheesy Filling Recipe FAQs What kind of ground beef should I use for Italian Meatloaf? I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for the best juicy and flavorful meatloaf. The balance of meat to fat ensures that your final dish won’t be dry while still holding its shape beautifully. How should I store leftovers after making the meatloaf? Once your stuffed meatloaf has cooled completely, place it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, just reheat the slices in the microwave or pop them back into the oven for a few minutes with a splash of marinara sauce for added moisture. Can I freeze my unbaked stuffed Italian meatloaf? Absolutely! To freeze, wrap your unbaked meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook, just transfer it to the fridge the night before to thaw, then bake as usual for a fresh and comforting meal. I’m getting some leaks from my cheese filling during baking. What can I do? This is a common issue! To avoid cheese leakage, make sure you roll the meatloaf tightly and seal the edges well. Additionally, consider using a slightly firmer cheese, like low-moisture mozzarella, in your filling. If it happens, don’t worry; just scoop the cheese back in as it oozes out during cooking! Are there any dietary considerations for this Italian Meatloaf? If you’re making this dish for guests, it’s always great to ask about dietary restrictions. You can make the meatloaf gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure your cheese options are compliant with any lactose sensitivities. This recipe can also be made leaner by using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, which can be a wonderful alternative! How long should I let the meatloaf rest before slicing? Letting your stuffed Italian meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes after baking is essential. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the loaf, making sure each slice is as moist and flavorful as possible. Trust me, this step makes a delightful difference! Savor the Comfort of Italian Meatloaf with Cheesy Goodness Discover the delightful flavors of Italian Meatloaf, a comforting dish packed with savory herbs and melted cheese that will impress your family and friends. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 50 minutes minsResting Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 20 minutes mins Servings: 6 slicesCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 400 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Meatloaf2 pounds Ground Beef Use 80/20 for a juicy flavor base.1 cup Breadcrumbs Gluten-free options work well.2 large Eggs Acts as a binder.1 tablespoon Garlic Powder Adds depth of flavor.1 tablespoon Onion Powder Enhances savoriness.2 tablespoons Italian Seasoning For authentic flavor.1 teaspoon Salt Essential for seasoning.1 teaspoon Pepper Essential for seasoning.For the Cheesy Filling1 cup Mozzarella Cheese Delivers a creamy surprise.1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Adds a sharp, nutty note.1 cup Spinach Optional, adds nutrients.For Serving2 cups Marinara Sauce Essential for serving. Equipment OvenMixing BowlBaking SheetParchment Paper Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Gather all your ingredients.In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.In a separate bowl, blend together mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and optional spinach. Set aside.Lay a sheet of parchment paper and flatten the meat mixture into a rectangle, about 1 inch thick.Spread the cheesy filling evenly over the meat rectangle, leaving a half-inch border. Roll tightly from one edge.Transfer the rolled meatloaf seam-side down onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.Bake for 45-50 minutes until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).Remove from oven, ladle marinara sauce over the top, and bake for an additional 10 minutes.Let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 32gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 3mg NotesCustomize your cheese filling by experimenting with different cheeses for varied flavors. Allow leftovers to rest before slicing for best results. 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