Enjoy a delicious stuffed meatloaf filled with rich flavors and gooey mozzarella. Perfectly seasoned ground beef is combined with breadcrumbs, Parmesan, onion, garlic, and Italian herbs, then rolled with a cheesy center. A tangy ketchup glaze tops this hearty dish, baked to perfection. Easy to prepare, this American favorite will impress with its stunning presentation and savory taste.
This stuffed mozzarella meatloaf transforms the humble classic into a showstopping dinner that reveals a beautiful spiral of melted cheese with each slice. The combination of savory beef, Italian seasonings, and gooey mozzarella creates a comfort food experience that feels special enough for Sunday dinner yet simple enough for weeknight meals.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
No fancy ingredients needed just pantry staples and grocery store basics
Ready in just 75 minutes with only 15 minutes of hands on prep
Makes impressive presentation with minimal effort
Leftovers taste even better the next day
I first made this meatloaf for my inlaws when they visited during the holidays, and now it’s requested at nearly every family gathering. The moment when you slice into it and reveal that perfect cheese spiral always brings gasps of delight to the table.
Ingredients
Ground beef: 80/20 blend provides the perfect fat content for juicy meatloaf that holds together well
Plain breadcrumbs: help bind the mixture while keeping the texture light
Parmesan cheese: adds depth of flavor and saltiness throughout the meat mixture
Egg: works as the crucial binding agent that keeps everything together
Milk: adds moisture and tenderness to the finished loaf
Onion and garlic: create the aromatic base that gives homemade meatloaf its signature flavor
Italian seasoning: provides herbal notes that complement the mozzarella perfectly
Worcestershire sauce: adds umami depth that enhances the beefiness
Mozzarella cheese: select whole milk mozzarella for the creamiest melt and best stretch
Ketchup: creates a sweet tangy glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven
How To Make Stuffed Meatloaf with Mozzarella
Prepare the oven:
Set your oven to 350°F and allow it to fully preheat while you prepare the meatloaf mixture. This consistent temperature ensures even cooking throughout the dense loaf.
Mix the meat base:
In a large bowl combine all ingredients except the mozzarella and ketchup. Use clean hands to gently mix everything together until just combined. Overmixing will make the meatloaf tough so stop when ingredients are evenly distributed.
Form the base:
Lay out a large piece of parchment paper on your counter and press the meat mixture into an even rectangle about 10 inches by 12 inches and approximately 1 inch thick. Create neat edges for the best final appearance.
Add the cheese filling:
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the meat rectangle leaving a half inch border around all edges. The border ensures proper sealing when rolled.
Roll with care:
Starting from one of the short ends use the parchment paper to help lift and roll the meatloaf creating a spiral effect with the cheese. Press the seam and ends firmly to seal in the cheese completely.
Glaze for flavor:
Place the meatloaf seam side down in a baking dish. Spread ketchup evenly over the top and sides for a glossy flavorful exterior that will caramelize during baking.
Bake to perfection:
Place in your preheated oven and bake for approximately 60 minutes. The internal temperature should reach 160°F when measured with a meat thermometer for food safety.
Rest before slicing:
Allow the meatloaf to rest for a full 10 minutes after removing from the oven. This crucial step allows the juices to redistribute and the cheese to set slightly making for cleaner slices.
You Must Know
High protein dinner that satisfies the whole family
Excellent for meal prep can be made ahead and reheated
Each slice reveals a beautiful spiral pattern making it company worthy
Can be frozen before or after cooking
Discovering how to properly roll this meatloaf was a game changer for me. My first attempt looked more like a meat volcano with cheese erupting from every crack! The parchment paper technique makes all the difference in achieving that perfect spiral. My daughter now helps me make this recipe monthly and calls it our special cheese surprise loaf.
Make Ahead Options
This stuffed meatloaf shines as a make ahead dish. You can prepare the entire meatloaf up to the point of baking, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, simply remove from the refrigerator 30 minutes before baking to take the chill off, then bake as directed, adding about 10 minutes to the cooking time. The flavors actually develop beautifully during the rest in the refrigerator.
Cheese Variations
While mozzarella creates that classic stretchy pull, this recipe welcomes creative cheese combinations. Try mixing the mozzarella with sharp cheddar for color contrast and flavor complexity. Pepper jack adds a spicy kick that complements the beef beautifully. For an extra indulgent version, consider adding a layer of cream cheese beneath the mozzarella for an ultra creamy center. The key is ensuring any cheese you choose melts well at the temperature and timeframe of the recipe.
Serving Suggestions
This meatloaf pairs wonderfully with classic comfort food sides. Creamy mashed potatoes make the perfect landing pad for the rich meat and cheese. Roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans provide a colorful counterpoint and balance to the richness. For a complete meal experience, serve with a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Leftover slices make exceptional sandwiches the next day when placed between toasted bread with a smear of mayo and some crisp lettuce.
Pro Tips
Allow the meatloaf to rest the full 10 minutes before slicing to prevent cheese from flowing out too quickly
Use parchment paper rather than plastic wrap for rolling the better grip helps create a tighter roll
Slightly wet hands when forming the meat mixture prevents sticking and creates a smoother surface
Recipe FAQs
→ How do I prevent the meatloaf from falling apart?
Use a combination of breadcrumbs, egg, and milk to bind the meat mixture together. Also, make sure to press and roll it tightly before baking.
→ Can I substitute mozzarella cheese?
Yes, you can use other melting cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
→ What should I serve with stuffed meatloaf?
This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
→ How do I know when the meatloaf is cooked through?
Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) at the thickest part of the meatloaf.
→ Can I prepare the meatloaf in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the meatloaf up to a day ahead and keep it in the refrigerator. Bake it fresh when ready to serve.
Stuffed Meatloaf with Mozzarella
Gooey mozzarella-filled meatloaf with flavorful ingredients for rich, hearty meals.
Preparation Time
15 min
Cooking Time
60 min
Total Duration
75 min
By Fatiha: Fatiha
Category: Main Dishes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Cuisine: American
Output: 6 Servings
Dietary Preferences: ~
Ingredients
2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend)
1 cup plain breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
1/4 cup milk
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup ketchup
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, milk, onion, garlic, Italian seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl. Mix well until evenly incorporated.
Lay out a large sheet of parchment paper or plastic wrap. Form the meat mixture into a rectangle about 1-inch thick, pressing it out evenly.
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the meat rectangle, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
Carefully roll the meatloaf from one end to the other. Use the parchment paper to guide the roll, pinching seams to seal. Place seam-side down in a baking dish.
Brush the top of the meatloaf with ketchup to create a glaze.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
Remove from the oven and allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes to lock in moisture.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, slice, and serve warm.
Allergen Information
Review each component for possible allergens and consult a health professional when concerned.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
These figures serve as estimates and are not a substitute for medical advice.
Fatiha
Fatiha
Fatiha delivers simple, tested recipes at Zestplate.com, ensuring consistent results every time.
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