why make this recipe
Stuffed Italian Meatloaf is not just your ordinary meatloaf. It brings a delicious twist with a cheesy center and rich flavors. The combination of ground beef and Italian sausage makes it juicy and packed with taste. It’s a great dish for family dinners or gatherings and is sure to impress your guests. Plus, it’s simple to make and can be customized with your favorite fillings.
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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 your oven to 375°F.
- In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, Italian sausage, chopped onion, minced garlic, bread crumbs, eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and parsley. Add in the milk, salt, and pepper; mix until everything is combined.
- On a baking sheet, shape the meat mixture into a rectangular loaf, about 9×12 inches.
- Create a well in the center of the meatloaf. Stuff this well with the shredded mozzarella cheese, chopped 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 over the top of the meatloaf and sprinkle it with more Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches 160°F.
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
- Serve with extra marinara sauce if you like.
how to serve Stuffed Italian Meatloaf
Serving Stuffed Italian Meatloaf is easy. Slice the meatloaf into thick pieces and plate them with a ladle of marinara sauce. You can add a side of pasta, garlic bread, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. It’s perfect for family dinners or even special occasions.
how to store Stuffed Italian Meatloaf
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for about 3 to 4 days. You can also freeze slices of meatloaf. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They will stay good for up to 2 to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in the oven or microwave.
tips to make Stuffed Italian Meatloaf
- Use fresh herbs instead of dried for more flavor.
- Mix in different cheeses like provolone or ricotta for variety.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add crushed red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.
- Make sure to seal the meatloaf well around the filling to prevent it from leaking while baking.
variation
You can add different vegetables or types of cheese based on your preference. For example, roasted red peppers or mushrooms can be great additions. For a spicy version, try adding jalapeños or pepper jack cheese.
FAQs
1. Can I use turkey instead of beef and sausage?
Yes, you can use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Just keep in mind that the flavor will be different, but it will still be delicious!
2. How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
The best way to check is with a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 160°F for it to be fully cooked.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf and refrigerate it before baking. Just make sure to cover it well. When ready to bake, add a little extra time if it’s cold from the fridge.
Stuffed Italian Meatloaf
- Total Time: 70 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A delicious twist on traditional meatloaf with a cheesy center and rich flavors, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
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
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, Italian sausage, chopped onion, minced garlic, bread crumbs, eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and parsley. Add in the milk, salt, and pepper; mix until everything is combined.
- On a baking sheet, shape the meat mixture into a rectangular loaf, about 9×12 inches.
- Create a well in the center of the meatloaf. Stuff this well with the shredded mozzarella cheese, chopped 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 over the top of the meatloaf and sprinkle it with more Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches 160°F.
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with extra marinara sauce if you like.
Notes
Use fresh herbs instead of dried for more flavor. Mix in different cheeses for variety and add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: meatloaf, Italian, stuffed, cheesy, comfort food
