This tasty meatloaf is filled with gooey mozzarella cheese that makes every bite extra special. It’s a cozy dish that’s great for family dinners or a comforting meal at home!
Honestly, who can resist that cheesy surprise in the middle? I love serving it with some mashed potatoes and a side of veggies. Perfect combo for a happy belly! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: For a juicy meatloaf, I recommend using 80% lean ground beef. You can substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Just remember, they may be less fatty, so consider adding a little olive oil for moisture.
Fresh Mozzarella: This cheese gives that nice melty center. You can use mozzarella cheese logs or even part-skim mozzarella if you’re cutting back on fat. Other cheeses like cheddar or provolone also work nicely for a different flavor.
Breadcrumbs: Fresh breadcrumbs create a lighter texture. If you don’t have any, regular dried breadcrumbs or even crushed crackers can substitute in a pinch. Just adjust the moisture by adding a little more milk if needed.
Milk: Whole milk adds richness, but you can use 2% or even almond milk if you’re looking for dairy-free options. Coconut milk can add a unique twist too!
Parmesan Cheese: I find that Parmesan brings a great flavor punch. If you’re out, pecorino Romano is a lovely alternative. Nutritional yeast can be a wonderful dairy-free substitute, offering a cheesy flavor without the cheese!
How Do I Keep My Meatloaf Moist?
Achieving a moist meatloaf is key and a common struggle! Start with the right mix of ingredients and avoid overmixing, which can lead to a dense texture. Here are some tips:
- Incorporate wet ingredients like milk and eggs to bind the meat together while adding moisture.
- Adding breadcrumbs helps absorb excess moisture, creating a tender texture. Always make sure they are fresh!
- Do not overbake! Use a meat thermometer to check for 160°F (71°C) so it remains juicy.
- Let the meatloaf rest after baking. This helps redistribute the juices and keeps it from falling apart when you slice it.
Keep these pointers in mind, and your mozzarella-stuffed meatloaf will turn out delicious each time! 😊
Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds ground beef (preferably 80% lean)
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella, sliced into thick strips (or use mozzarella cheese log)
- 1 cup fresh breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce or tomato sauce, divided
- Fresh thyme (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious mozzarella-stuffed meatloaf takes about 15 minutes to prep and 60 to 75 minutes to bake. Be sure to let it rest for 10 minutes after baking, so the juices settle and the cheese doesn’t ooze out when sliced! In total, you’ll spend about 1 hour and 30 minutes getting this wonderful dish ready to enjoy.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet or a loaf pan with parchment paper, or lightly grease it. This will help with easy cleanup later.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, fresh breadcrumbs, whole milk, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, chopped onion, minced garlic, eggs, salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and dried basil. Use your hands to mix it gently until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
3. Shape the Meatloaf:
Take about half of the meat mixture and shape it into a loaf on your prepared pan. Aim for a rectangle roughly the size of a standard loaf. This will create a nice base for your mozzarella surprise!
4. Add the Mozzarella:
Now, place the mozzarella slices in a row down the center of your meatloaf base. Make sure it’s a good layer so you get that gooey cheese goodness in every bite.
5. Seal the Cheese:
Carefully take the remaining meat mixture and cover the mozzarella, making sure to seal the edges well. This way, your cheese will be hidden inside, creating a delicious surprise!
6. Sauce It Up:
Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly over the top of the meatloaf, giving it a lovely glaze that adds flavor and moisture.
7. Bake It:
Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for about 60 to 75 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). You might want to use a meat thermometer to get it just right.
8. Glaze Again:
About 10 minutes before the meatloaf is finished baking, spread the remaining 1/2 cup of marinara sauce on top for an extra boost of flavor and a beautiful finish.
9. Rest and Slice:
Once the meatloaf is cooked, take it out of the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and helps keep the cheesy center from flowing out when sliced.
10. Serve:
Garnish your meatloaf with fresh thyme or parsley if you like. Serve it warm alongside your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a crisp salad.
Enjoy the rich, savory flavors of this mozzarella-stuffed meatloaf with that delightful cheesy surprise inside! 🍽️
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes, you can! Ground turkey is a great leaner alternative. Just keep in mind that it may require a little more seasoning to achieve the same flavor depth as beef. You can also add some olive oil to keep it moist.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Fresh Mozzarella?
No problem! You can use shredded mozzarella, part-skim mozzarella, or even a different cheese like provolone or cheddar. Just ensure that the cheese you choose melts well and complements the flavors of the meatloaf.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat slices in the microwave or warm gently in the oven, covered with foil to keep it moist.
Can I Freeze Meatloaf?
Absolutely! You can freeze meatloaf before or after cooking. If freezing before baking, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. To freeze cooked meatloaf, allow it to cool, slice it, then wrap it in plastic wrap and foil. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
