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Stuffed Meatloaf with Mozzarella

Stuffed Meatloaf with Mozzarella
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Stuffed Meatloaf with Mozzarella is a comforting and flavorful twist on the classic meatloaf, featuring a gooey mozzarella cheese center that melts beautifully with every slice. Made with simple, accessible ingredients and customizable options, this recipe delivers hearty, savory goodness perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or special occasions. The blend of ground meat, herbs, and melted cheese creates a satisfying, delicious meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb 80/20 ground beef (or mix with ground pork for juiciness)
  • 4 oz fresh mozzarella balls or 1 cup pre-shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs for gluten-free option)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (oregano, basil, thyme blend)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Optional Toppings

  • 1/4 cup ketchup or tomato sauce (or BBQ sauce for variation)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix gently but thoroughly to evenly distribute all ingredients without overworking the meat to keep the loaf tender.
  2. Shape the Base Layer: On a sheet of parchment paper or lightly greased foil, spread half of the meat mixture into a rectangular shape about 1 inch thick and roughly the size of your baking pan, ensuring an even layer to hold the cheese filling properly.
  3. Add the Mozzarella Filling: Evenly place mozzarella pieces over the base meat layer, leaving a small border at the edges to prevent the cheese from oozing out during baking.
  4. Top with Remaining Meat: Spread the remaining meat mixture carefully over the cheese, pressing the edges gently together to fully encase the mozzarella, sealing the loaf well.
  5. Bake to Perfection: Transfer the loaf to a baking sheet or loaf pan. Optionally, brush ketchup or tomato sauce (or BBQ sauce) over the top for a glossy finish. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  6. Rest and Slice: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes after baking to allow juices to redistribute and the cheese to set slightly. Slice carefully and serve, revealing the molten mozzarella center.

Notes

  • Don’t overmix the meat mixture to keep the meatloaf tender.
  • Seal the edges tightly to avoid cheese leakage during baking.
  • Use fresh mozzarella for smoother melting and better texture.
  • Cook until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) to ensure safety.
  • Let the meatloaf rest before slicing to retain moisture and keep cheese molten.

Nutrition

Keywords: stuffed meatloaf, mozzarella meatloaf, cheesy meatloaf, comfort food, easy dinner, meal prep

Find it online: https://eazyummy.com/stuffed-meatloaf-with-mozzarella/