Stuffed Italian Meatloaf Recipe
A savory and hearty Stuffed Italian Meatloaf combining ground beef and Italian sausage, stuffed with melted mozzarella, spinach, and marinara sauce, then baked to perfection with a flavorful marinara topping and Parmesan cheese crust.
- Author: Sophie
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
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
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the meatloaf evenly.
- Mix Meatloaf Ingredients: In a large bowl, thoroughly combine ground beef, ground Italian sausage, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, bread crumbs, eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and chopped parsley. Add the milk along with salt and pepper to taste, then mix until all ingredients are fully combined and evenly distributed.
- Form the Meatloaf: Transfer the meat mixture onto a baking sheet and shape it into a rectangular loaf approximately 9 by 12 inches in size, creating a base for the filling.
- Add the Filling: Make a well in the center of the shaped meatloaf and carefully stuff it with shredded mozzarella cheese, chopped spinach if using, and a spoonful of marinara sauce to infuse it with classic Italian flavors.
- Seal the Meatloaf: Carefully fold the meat mixture over the filling, sealing the edges to enclose the cheese and spinach completely, forming a neat loaf.
- Top the Meatloaf: Spread the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the top of the meatloaf, then sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese for a flavorful crust once baked.
- Bake: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F, ensuring the meat is cooked through and safe to eat.
- Rest: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, making it easier to slice and more flavorful.
- Serve: Slice the meatloaf and serve it warm with extra marinara sauce on the side if desired for added moisture and taste.
Notes
- Make sure not to overmix the meat mixture to keep the meatloaf tender.
- Use fresh parsley and Italian seasoning for the best flavor.
- Spinach is optional but adds a nice texture and nutrients.
- Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure safe cooking.
- Allowing the meatloaf to rest helps retain moisture and improves slicing.
Keywords: stuffed meatloaf, Italian meatloaf, mozzarella stuffed meatloaf, baked meatloaf recipe, easy meatloaf dinner