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Mozzarella Stuffed Italian Meatloaf Cheesy Comfort Dinner
Emily

Mozzarella-Stuffed Italian Meatloaf

This Italian-style meatloaf is packed with savory flavors, stuffed with gooey mozzarella, and topped with marinara sauce — a comforting family favorite perfect for dinner.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 6 slices
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 410
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs (680g) ground beef
  • 0.5 cup (50g) Italian breadcrumbs
  • 0.5 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 0.5 cup (120ml) marinara sauce, plus extra for topping
  • 0.25 cup (60ml) milk
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 0.5 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1.5 cups (150g) shredded mozzarella cheese or 8 oz (225g) mozzarella sticks
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Mixing spoon or spatula
  • Oven
  • Meat thermometer

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease.
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, marinara, milk, onion, garlic, eggs, Italian seasoning, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until incorporated.
  3. Transfer mixture to the baking sheet and flatten into a 1/2-inch thick rectangle.
  4. Place mozzarella in a line down the center, leaving space at edges.
  5. Roll the meat around cheese, sealing edges, shaping into an 8x4-inch loaf.
  6. Spread thin layer of marinara sauce over the loaf.
  7. Bake for about 45 minutes.
  8. Remove from oven, top with more marinara and mozzarella (if desired). Return to oven for 10–15 minutes until bubbly and internal temp reaches 160°F (71°C).

Notes

For extra flavor, use fresh mozzarella instead of pre-shredded. Pair with roasted vegetables or spaghetti for a classic Italian-inspired meal. Leftovers reheat well and can even be sliced into sandwiches.