Stuffed Italian Meatloaf Recipe

Introduction

This Stuffed Italian Meatloaf is a flavorful twist on a classic comfort dish, packed with savory Italian sausage, melted mozzarella, and fresh spinach. Topped with marinara and Parmesan, it’s perfect for a satisfying family dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 lbs ground beef
• 1/2 lb ground Italian sausage
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup bread crumbs
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 tbsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tbsp parsley, chopped
• 1/2 cup milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 cup spinach, chopped (optional)
• 1/4 cup marinara sauce (for filling)
• 1/2 cup marinara sauce (for topping)
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (for topping)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground Italian sausage, chopped onion, minced garlic, bread crumbs, eggs, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and parsley. Add the milk, salt, and pepper, then mix until everything is thoroughly combined.
3. Step 3: On a baking sheet, shape the meat mixture into a rectangular loaf about 9 by 12 inches.
4. Step 4: Create a well in the center of the meatloaf and fill it with shredded mozzarella, chopped spinach if using, and a spoonful of marinara sauce.
5. Step 5: Gently fold the meat around the filling, sealing the edges to enclose it completely and form a loaf.
6. Step 6: Spread the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the top of the meatloaf and sprinkle with the additional Parmesan cheese.
7. Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
8. Step 8: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with extra marinara sauce if desired.

Tips & Variations

• For a milder flavor, substitute turkey sausage for the Italian sausage.
• Adding chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to the filling can add extra texture and flavor.
• If you prefer a spicier meatloaf, mix red pepper flakes into the meat mixture.
• Use fresh breadcrumbs for a lighter texture, or gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.

Storage

Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm slices gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or microwave until heated through.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and assemble the meatloaf the day before and refrigerate it. Bake it on the day you plan to serve to ensure freshness.

What can I serve with stuffed Italian meatloaf?

This meatloaf pairs well with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or creamy mashed potatoes to round out the meal.

Stuffed Italian Meatloaf Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 85 reviews

A delicious and comforting Stuffed Italian Meatloaf featuring a savory blend of ground beef and Italian sausage, filled with melted mozzarella, spinach, and marinara sauce. Topped with marinara and Parmesan for an authentic Italian twist, this hearty dish is perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

• Author: Sophie
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meatloaf:

• 1 1/2 lbs ground beef
• 1/2 lb ground Italian sausage
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup bread crumbs
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 tbsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tbsp parsley, chopped
• 1/2 cup milk
• Salt and pepper to taste

Filling:

• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 cup spinach, chopped (optional)
• 1/4 cup marinara sauce

Topping:

• 1/2 cup marinara sauce
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the meatloaf evenly.
2. Mix Meatloaf Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground Italian sausage, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, bread crumbs, eggs, grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and chopped parsley. Add milk, salt, and pepper, then mix thoroughly until fully combined to ensure a well-flavored meat mixture.
3. Shape the Meatloaf: On a baking sheet, form the meat mixture into a rectangular loaf approximately 9×12 inches in size, creating enough space for the filling.
4. Add the Filling: Create a well or cavity in the center of the meatloaf, then stuff it with shredded mozzarella cheese, chopped spinach if desired, and a spoonful of marinara sauce to add a gooey, flavorful center.
5. Seal the Loaf: Carefully fold the meat mixture around the filling, sealing the edges completely to encase the filling inside and prevent leaks during baking.
6. Top the Meatloaf: Spread the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the top of the meatloaf and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese to develop a flavorful crust as it bakes.
7. Bake: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) to ensure it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
8. Rest and Serve: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes to allow juices to redistribute. Slice and serve with extra marinara sauce if desired for added flavor.

Notes

• Using a meat thermometer helps ensure the meatloaf is cooked perfectly without drying out.
• Spinach in the filling is optional and can be omitted or substituted with other greens like kale.
• Letting the meatloaf rest before slicing helps maintain moistness and prevents crumbling.
• Use fresh herbs if available for enhanced flavor.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.

Keywords: Italian meatloaf, stuffed meatloaf, baked meatloaf recipe, mozzarella stuffed meatloaf, easy Italian dinner