Name: Italian Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatloaf Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 15 min
Total time: 1 h 40 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1½ lbs Ground Beef; 1 medium onion; 8 oz tomato sauce; ½ cup Bread crumbs; 1 egg; 2 cloves garlic; 1 tsp oregano; 1 tsp salt; ⅛ tsp black pepper; 1½ cups Mozzarella cheese; 2 tbsp parmesan cheese

This mouth-watering Italian Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatloaf recipe gives a stunning twist to a classic dish. The stunning fusion of mozzarella cheese and ground beef makes it a perfect meal for any occasion. It's easy to prepare and crammed full of rich, savory flavors that will transport you straight to Italy.

Photos of Italian Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatloaf Recipe

Some of the ingredients in this recipe, like Mozzarella cheese and oregano, might already be there in your pantry. However, you might not usually have ground beef at home. When you plan to prepare this dish, make sure to get some fresh ground beef from the supermarket. Fresh beef will make a substantial difference in the taste.

Ingredients for Italian Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatloaf

Ground beef: A popular choice for meatloaf, it adds a rich, meaty flavor.

Onion: Adds a hint of sweetness and crunch. It's an essential ingredient in many savory dishes.

Tomato sauce: Imparts tangy and sweet flavors, balancing out the richness of the beef.

Bread crumbs: Helps to bind the meatloaf together and adds texture.

Egg: Acts as a binding agent to hold all the ingredients together.

Garlic: Adds a powerful, aromatic flavor that complements the beef well.

Oregano: A staple in Italian cooking, it gives the dish a robust, earthy flavor.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavors of the dish.

Black pepper: Adds a kick of spice and depth to the meatloaf.

Mozzarella cheese: Adds a creamy, cheesy element. It also provides a delightful, gooey center.

Parmesan cheese: A hard, granular cheese that offers a sharp, complex flavor.

One reader, Carole Holcombe says:

This Italian mozzarella-stuffed meatloaf recipe is a game-changer! The combination of juicy ground beef, gooey mozzarella, and savory tomato sauce is simply divine. It's a crowd-pleaser and a definite winner for family dinners. The flavors are so rich and comforting, making it a go-to recipe in my household.

Carole Holcombe

Techniques Required for Making Italian Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatloaf

How to mix the meatloaf: Combine the ground beef, onion, tomato sauce, bread crumbs, egg, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper in a large bowl, and mix until well combined.

How to stuff the meatloaf with mozzarella: Pat the meat mixture into a 1/2-inch-thick rectangle on a sheet of waxed paper. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese on top, then lift up the short side of the waxed paper to start rolling up the meatloaf. Roll tightly, peeling back the paper as you go, and seal the edges in place.

How to bake the meatloaf: Transfer the stuffed meatloaf to a loaf pan and bake in the preheated oven at 350 degrees F for 1 hour. Afterward, combine the remaining tomato sauce and oregano, pour it over the meatloaf, sprinkle with parmesan cheese, and bake until the cheese is melted, about 15 minutes more.

How to serve the meatloaf: Let the meatloaf stand for 5 minutes before serving. Cut into slices and serve.

How To Make Italian Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatloaf

This cheesy and filling stuffed meatloaf combines tomato sauce, cheese, ground beef, bread crumbs, and eggs to make a crowd-favorite Italian dish.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 1 hour 15 minutes

Resting Time: 5 minutes

Total: 1 hour 40 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1½lbsground beef
1medium onion,chopped
8oztomato sauce,(1 can) divided
½cupbread crumbs
1egg
2clovesgarlic,minced
1tsporegano,dried, divided
1tspsalt
⅛tspblack pepper,ground
1½cupsmozzarella cheese,shredded
2tbspparmesan cheese,grated

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
Mix beef, onion, 1/2 of the tomato sauce, bread crumbs, egg, garlic, 1/2 teaspoon oregano, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Pat into a 1/2-inch-thick rectangle on a sheet of waxed paper. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top.
Lift up the short side of the waxed paper to start rolling up the meatloaf. Roll tightly, peeling back paper as you go. Seal edges in place. Transfer meatloaf to a loaf pan.
Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour. Combine remaining tomato sauce and oregano; pour over meatloaf and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Bake until cheese is melted, about 15 minutes more. Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Serve and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 428.30kcal
Fat: 30.59g
Saturated Fat: 14.68g
Trans Fat: 1.01g
Monounsaturated Fat: 11.41g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.12g
Carbohydrates: 9.33g
Fiber: 1.04g
Sugar: 2.55g
Protein: 28.09g
Cholesterol: 125.33mg
Sodium: 626.20mg
Calcium: 349.05mg
Potassium: 398.42mg
Iron: 2.55mg
Vitamin A: 119.16µg
Vitamin C: 3.24mg

Technique Tip for Italian Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatloaf Recipe

When stuffing your meatloaf, it's important to evenly distribute the mozzarella cheese across the entire surface of the meat mixture before rolling. This ensures that every slice of the meatloaf will have a generous amount of cheese. Also, when rolling the meatloaf, do it slowly and carefully to prevent the cheese from spilling out. If some does spill out, don't worry, just tuck it back in. The cheese will melt and bind everything together during baking.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatloaf

Prep ahead: Prepare the meatloaf mixture the night before and store it in the refrigerator. This will save time on the day of cooking.

Use a food processor: Use a food processor to chop the onions and garlic quickly, saving time and effort.

Multitask: While the meatloaf is baking, use that time to prepare a simple side dish or salad to complete the meal.

Invest in quality tools: Quality kitchen tools such as sharp knives and efficient food processors can significantly reduce prep time.

Organize ingredients: Before starting the recipe, organize all the ingredients and tools needed to streamline the cooking process.

Pre-slice the mozzarella: Pre-slice the mozzarella cheese in advance to save time during the assembly of the meatloaf.

Substitute Ingredients For Italian Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatloaf Recipe

ground beef - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner option and can be used as a healthier alternative to ground beef. It also has a mild flavor that can easily absorb the other ingredients in the meatloaf.
mozzarella cheese - Substitute with provolone cheese: Provolone cheese has a similar mild and creamy flavor to mozzarella, making it a suitable substitute for stuffing the meatloaf. It melts well and adds a delicious cheesy texture to the dish.

Presentation Tips for Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatloaf

Elevate the meatloaf: Instead of serving the meatloaf in a traditional loaf shape, consider shaping it into individual portions using a ring mold for a more refined presentation.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a pop of color and freshness to the dish by garnishing with sprigs of fresh parsley or basil.
Create a mozzarella cheese sauce: Drizzle a velvety mozzarella cheese sauce on the plate before placing the sliced meatloaf for an elegant touch.
Incorporate microgreens: Sprinkle delicate microgreens on top of the meatloaf for a visually appealing and gourmet touch.
Accompany with a tomato reduction: Serve the meatloaf with a drizzle of reduced tomato sauce for a sophisticated flavor enhancement.
Plate with precision: Use tweezers to carefully place each component on the plate, ensuring a meticulous and visually stunning presentation.
Add edible flowers: Introduce a touch of whimsy and elegance by incorporating colorful and edible flowers as a garnish.
Consider a deconstructed approach: Deconstruct the meatloaf by presenting the components separately on the plate, showcasing the ingredients in a modern and artistic manner.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the meatloaf to be the focal point, creating a visually striking presentation.
Infuse artistic drizzles: Use a squeeze bottle to create artistic drizzles of balsamic glaze or olive oil around the plate for a sophisticated and polished finish.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Meatloaf

Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining the ground beef, onion, tomato sauce, bread crumbs, egg, and seasonings to form the meatloaf mixture.
Sheet of waxed paper: This is used to shape and roll the meatloaf mixture, ensuring it holds its form and seals in the mozzarella cheese.
Loaf pan: The loaf pan is used to bake the meatloaf in the oven, helping it maintain its shape and cook evenly.
Oven: The oven is used for baking the mozzarella-stuffed meatloaf to perfection, ensuring it's cooked through and the cheese is melted.
Knife: A knife is needed for chopping the onion and garlic, as well as slicing and serving the meatloaf once it's cooked.
Measuring cups and spoons: These are used to accurately measure and add the tomato sauce, bread crumbs, oregano, salt, and pepper to the meatloaf mixture.
Cheese grater: This is used to grate the mozzarella and parmesan cheese for the meatloaf and topping.

Storing and Freezing Italian Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatloaf

Here are the storing and freezing guidelines for Italian mozzarella-stuffed meatloaf:

Allow the meatloaf to cool completely before storing or freezing. This prevents condensation from forming, which can lead to soggy or freezer-burned meatloaf.
To store in the refrigerator:
- Place the cooled meatloaf in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
- To reheat, slice the desired portion and microwave or heat in a skillet until warmed through.
For longer storage, freeze the meatloaf:
- Wrap the cooled meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. This double layer helps prevent freezer burn.
- Label the wrapped meatloaf with the date and contents.
- Place the wrapped meatloaf in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, removing as much air as possible.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
To thaw and reheat frozen meatloaf:
- Remove the meatloaf from the freezer and place it in the refrigerator to thaw overnight.
- Once thawed, remove the wrapping and place the meatloaf in a baking dish.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through.
- Alternatively, you can slice the thawed meatloaf and reheat individual portions in the microwave or a skillet.
If you have leftover tomato sauce or parmesan cheese, store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator and use them to top the reheated meatloaf for added flavor.

How To Reheat Meatloaf Leftovers

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover meatloaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Cover the meatloaf loosely with foil to prevent it from drying out. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the surface to crisp up slightly.
For a quicker reheating method, use your microwave. Slice the italian mozzarella-stuffed meatloaf into 1-inch thick pieces and place them on a microwave-safe plate. Cover the plate with a damp paper towel to help retain moisture. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the meatloaf is heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the mozzarella cheese to become rubbery.
If you have a toaster oven, you can use it to reheat smaller portions of the meatloaf. Cut the desired amount into slices and place them on the toaster oven tray. Set the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and heat for 10-15 minutes, or until the meatloaf is warmed through and the cheese is melted.
For a stovetop method, place a slice of the italian mozzarella-stuffed meatloaf in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of water to the pan and cover with a lid. Heat for 3-4 minutes, or until the meatloaf is steaming and heated through. This method helps to keep the meatloaf moist while reheating.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat the meatloaf and give it a crispy exterior. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the sliced meatloaf in the air fryer basket, ensuring that the pieces don't overlap. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the meatloaf is heated through and the outside is slightly crispy.

Random Fact about Italian Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatloaf

Mozzarella-stuffed meatloaf is a delicious twist on the classic meatloaf recipe. It combines the savory flavors of ground beef, onion, and garlic with the gooey goodness of melted mozzarella cheese. This dish is a perfect comfort food for a cozy family dinner.

Is Making Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatloaf at Home Cost-Effective?

This Italian Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatloaf recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The ground beef and mozzarella cheese are the main cost drivers, but the dish yields a substantial portion, making it suitable for a family meal. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20. The flavorsome combination of beef, cheese, and seasonings creates a satisfying and hearty dish. I rate this recipe an 8 for its taste, simplicity, and affordability.

Is This Meatloaf Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

This Italian mozzarella-stuffed meatloaf recipe, while delicious, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:

Ground beef is high in saturated fat, which can raise cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease.
The recipe contains a significant amount of cheese, which is also high in saturated fat and calories.
The use of bread crumbs adds extra carbohydrates and calories to the dish.
The recipe lacks vegetables, which are essential for a balanced and nutritious meal.

However, with a few tweaks, this meatloaf can be made healthier without sacrificing taste:

Swap ground beef for lean ground turkey or chicken to reduce saturated fat content.
Use reduced-fat mozzarella cheese or decrease the amount of cheese used to lower the overall fat and calorie content.
Replace bread crumbs with rolled oats or quinoa for a more nutrient-dense and fiber-rich option.
Incorporate vegetables into the meatloaf mixture, such as grated zucchini, carrots, or spinach, to boost the nutritional value and add moisture.
Serve the meatloaf with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad to create a more balanced meal.
Opt for a homemade tomato sauce using fresh tomatoes, herbs, and spices, rather than a store-bought version that may contain added sugars and preservatives.

Editor's Opinion on This Italian Meatloaf Recipe

This Italian mozzarella-stuffed meatloaf recipe is a delightful twist on a classic dish. The combination of ground beef, mozzarella, and seasonings creates a flavorful and comforting meal. The addition of tomato sauce and parmesan cheese adds a rich and savory element to the dish. The cooking instructions are straightforward and easy to follow, making it a great option for a weeknight dinner. Overall, this recipe offers a delicious and satisfying take on traditional meatloaf that is sure to please the whole family.

Enhance Your Italian Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatloaf Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic and butter, the perfect complement to the savory mozzarella-stuffed meatloaf.

Roasted Vegetables: A colorful medley of roasted vegetables, including bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots, seasoned with herbs and olive oil for a flavorful side dish.

Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella cheese drizzled with balsamic glaze, a light and refreshing salad to pair with the hearty meatloaf.

Garlic Bread: Warm, crispy garlic bread with a golden crust and a soft, buttery center, a classic side to soak up the delicious tomato sauce from the meatloaf.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Italian Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatloaf

Savory Beef and Vegetable Stir-Fry: This savory stir-fry is packed with tender beef and a variety of colorful vegetables, all tossed in a flavorful sauce.

Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Risotto: Indulge in this creamy and comforting risotto dish, featuring tender chicken and earthy mushrooms cooked to perfection.

Refreshing Watermelon and Feta Salad: Enjoy the refreshing combination of juicy watermelon and tangy feta cheese, tossed with crisp lettuce and a zesty vinaigrette dressing.

Decadent Chocolate Lava Cake: Satisfy your sweet tooth with this decadent chocolate lava cake, featuring a rich and gooey center that oozes with every bite.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Italian Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatloaf

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: For a delicious and elegant appetizer, try making stuffed mushrooms. Start by removing the stems from the mushrooms and filling the caps with a savory mixture of breadcrumbs, cheese, and herbs. Bake until golden and serve hot for a crowd-pleasing starter.

Bruschetta: Bruschetta is a classic Italian appetizer that never fails to impress. Toast slices of crusty bread and top with a flavorful mixture of tomatoes, garlic, basil, and olive oil. The combination of crunchy bread and fresh, tangy topping is sure to whet your guests' appetites.

Desserts:

Tiramisu: Indulge in a luscious, creamy dessert with layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cheese. Topped with a dusting of cocoa powder, this classic Italian treat is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Panna Cotta: Treat yourself to a silky-smooth, chilled dessert made with sweetened cream and gelatin. This elegant and delicate Italian delicacy can be served with a variety of fruit compotes or drizzled with a decadent caramel sauce for a truly delightful experience.

Why trust this Italian Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatloaf Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful twist on the classic meatloaf, incorporating mozzarella cheese for a gooey, savory surprise. The combination of ground beef, tomato sauce, and garlic creates a rich and flavorful base, while the addition of oregano and parmesan cheese infuses it with Italian flair. The careful instructions ensure a perfectly cooked, tender meatloaf with a cheesy center, making it a delightful and satisfying dish for any occasion. Trust in the harmonious blend of ingredients and the meticulous preparation to deliver a mouthwatering experience.

If you enjoyed this Italian Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatloaf Recipe, be sure to share your thoughts and experiences in the Recipe Sharing forum section. We'd love to hear how it turned out for you and any creative twists you might have added to make it your own!

FAQ:

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef for this recipe?

Yes, you can definitely use ground turkey as a substitute for ground beef in this recipe. It will give the meatloaf a lighter flavor and texture, but it will still be delicious.

Can I prepare the meatloaf ahead of time and bake it later?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf ahead of time, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake. Just make sure to adjust the baking time accordingly if the meatloaf is chilled.

Can I add other ingredients to the meatloaf mixture?

Of course! Feel free to customize the meatloaf to your liking by adding ingredients such as diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or even some chopped fresh herbs. Just be mindful of the additional moisture these ingredients may introduce and adjust the recipe as needed.

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of mozzarella?

Certainly! While mozzarella cheese works beautifully in this recipe, you can get creative and use other cheeses like provolone, cheddar, or even a blend of different cheeses for a unique flavor profile.

Can I freeze the meatloaf?

Yes, you can freeze the meatloaf either before or after baking. If freezing before baking, wrap the meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. If freezing after baking, let the meatloaf cool completely, then wrap it well before placing it in the freezer. Just be sure to thaw and reheat it properly before serving.