Why Make This Recipe
Stuffed Italian Meatloaf is a delicious twist on the classic meatloaf. It combines the hearty flavors of beef and Italian sausage with melty cheese and savory marinara sauce. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a cozy gathering with friends. The best part is that it’s easy to prepare and can be a hit on any table.
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 ground beef, Italian sausage, onion, garlic, bread crumbs, eggs, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and parsley. Pour in the milk, and add salt and pepper. Mix everything until it is fully combined.
- On a baking sheet, shape the meat mixture into a rectangular loaf about 9×12 inches in size.
- Make a well in the center of the meatloaf. Stuff it with mozzarella cheese, spinach (if you’re using it), and a spoonful of marinara sauce.
- Carefully fold the meat around the filling and seal the edges to create a loaf.
- Spread the remaining marinara sauce on top of the meatloaf, and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reads 160°F.
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing it.
- Serve with extra marinara sauce, if desired.
How to Serve Stuffed Italian Meatloaf
You can serve Stuffed Italian Meatloaf with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad. Pour extra marinara sauce over each slice for added flavor. It also pairs well with mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables, making it a complete meal.
How to Store Stuffed Italian Meatloaf
To store leftover meatloaf, let it cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator. It can last for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it. Slice the meatloaf and wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Tips to Make Stuffed Italian Meatloaf
- For a spicier kick, add some red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.
- Make sure not to overmix the meatloaf to keep it tender.
- You can use different types of cheese for stuffing if you prefer.
- This recipe is versatile; feel free to add other vegetables to the filling.
Variation
You can make a turkey or chicken version of this meatloaf by using ground turkey or ground chicken instead of beef and sausage. You can also play around with different cheeses or use a marinara sauce infused with herbs for added flavor.
FAQs
Can I prepare this meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture a day in advance and keep it in the fridge. Just shape it into a loaf before baking.
What can I serve with meatloaf?
Meatloaf pairs well with sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or a simple salad.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
The meatloaf is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F. A meat thermometer is the best way to check.
Can I add other vegetables to the meatloaf?
Absolutely! Feel free to add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition.
Is it okay to freeze cooked meatloaf?
Yes, you can freeze cooked meatloaf. Wrap slices well and store them in the freezer for a later meal. Just reheat in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy!
Stuffed Italian Meatloaf
Ingredients
Meat Mixture
- 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 Use whole or low-fat milk.
- Salt and pepper to taste
Stuffing and Topping
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup spinach, chopped (optional) Can be omitted.
- 0.25 cup marinara sauce For stuffing.
- 0.5 cup marinara sauce For topping.
- 0.25 cup Parmesan cheese, grated For topping.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- In a large bowl, mix together ground beef, Italian sausage, onion, garlic, bread crumbs, eggs, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and parsley.
- Pour in the milk, and add salt and pepper. Mix everything until it is fully combined.
- On a baking sheet, shape the meat mixture into a rectangular loaf about 9x12 inches in size.
- Make a well in the center of the meatloaf. Stuff it with mozzarella cheese, spinach (if you’re using it), and a spoonful of marinara sauce.
- Carefully fold the meat around the filling and seal the edges to create a loaf.
- Spread the remaining marinara sauce on top of the meatloaf, and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
Cooking
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reads 160°F.
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing it.