Stuffed Italian Meatloaf
Stuffed Italian Meatloaf is a delightful take on the traditional meatloaf, packed with rich Italian flavors and a cheesy filling, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs ground beef
- 0.5 lbs ground Italian sausage
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup bread crumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tbsp parsley, chopped
- 0.5 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup spinach, chopped (optional)
- 0.25 cup marinara sauce
- 0.5 cup marinara sauce (for topping)
- 0.25 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (for topping)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, Italian sausage, onion, garlic, bread crumbs, eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and parsley.
- Pour in the milk, season with salt and pepper, and mix everything until well combined.
- On a baking sheet, shape the meat mixture into a rectangular loaf, about 9 x 12 inches.
- Create a well in the center of the meatloaf and stuff it with shredded mozzarella, chopped spinach (if using), and a spoonful of marinara sauce.
- Carefully fold the meat around the filling and seal the edges to form a loaf shape.
- Spread the remaining marinara sauce on top of the meatloaf and sprinkle additional grated Parmesan cheese.
Cooking
- Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Serving
- Serve with extra marinara sauce, if desired.
Notes
Store the sliced meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the meatloaf for longer storage. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw and warm in the oven or microwave.