This meatloaf is a hearty hug in food form, filled with gooey mozzarella cheese that will make each bite extra special. You won’t find a plain meatloaf here!
When I slice into it, that melty surprise inside always gets a smile. Serve it with some mashed potatoes, and you’ve got a meal that feels like a warm family dinner any night!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I prefer using 80/20 ground beef for a good balance of flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can go for 90/10, but be aware the meatloaf may be less juicy.
Ground Pork: This adds great flavor and moisture. If you want to keep it leaner, turkey or chicken can be good substitutes, but the meatloaf’s taste will change a bit.
Breadcrumbs: Fresh breadcrumbs add a nice texture. If you don’t have any, store-bought ones work fine! For gluten-free options, use crushed gluten-free crackers or oats.
Fresh Mozzarella: The gooeyness of fresh mozzarella is unmatched! If it’s unavailable, you can use part-skim mozzarella or even cheddar for a different flavor.
Tomato Sauce: For glazing, you can use marinara or any favorite pasta sauce. A BBQ sauce also gives it a sweet and tangy twist if you want something different.
How Do I Shape the Meatloaf Without Making a Mess?
Shaping the meatloaf can be tricky, but here’s how to do it while keeping things clean!
- Keep a bowl of water nearby. Wet your hands before handling the meat, so it doesn’t stick to your fingers.
- Lightly pack the first half of the meat mixture into your loaf pan or shape it on a baking sheet. Make the bottom as flat as possible.
- When adding the mozzarella, make sure to leave that 1/2-inch border; this will keep the cheese inside when you seal the meatloaf.
- Once you cover the cheese with the remaining mixture, press down gently to seal the edges well. This helps keep all that cheesy goodness contained while it cooks!
With these tips, you’ll have a neatly shaped and delicious meatloaf every time!
How to Make Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 1/2 lb ground beef (preferably 80/20)
- 1/2 lb ground pork
- 1 cup fresh breadcrumbs (made from day-old bread)
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced or torn into chunks
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup tomato sauce or marinara sauce (plus extra for glazing)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For Garnish:
- Fresh rosemary sprig or additional parsley (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 50-60 minutes to bake. Plus, allow about 10 minutes for resting before you slice it. So overall, you’ll need about 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Ingredients:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating, lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Preparing the Breadcrumbs:
In a small bowl, soak the breadcrumbs in milk. Let them sit for about 5 minutes until they’re fully absorbed. This helps keep the meatloaf moist.
3. Mixing the Meat:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, soaked breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, eggs, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly but gently to avoid overworking the meat, which can make the meatloaf tough.
4. Shaping the Meatloaf:
Take half of the meat mixture and shape it into a loaf on your prepared pan or baking sheet. Make sure it’s nice and even.
5. Adding the Mozzarella:
Now, layer the mozzarella over the meat base, but leave about a 1/2-inch border around the edges to seal the cheese in later.
6. Finishing the Loaf:
Cover the mozzarella with the remaining meat mixture. Gently press down and seal the edges well to enclose the cheese completely.
7. Glazing the Top:
Spread about 1/2 cup of tomato sauce or marinara sauce over the top of the meatloaf. This gives it a nice flavor and keeps it moist while baking.
8. Baking to Perfection:
Bake in the preheated oven for about 50-60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) and the top is beautifully caramelized.
9. Resting the Meatloaf:
Let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes after taking it out of the oven. This step is crucial as it helps keep the gooey cheese from oozing out too much when you slice it.
10. Serving & Garnishing:
Garnish with a fresh rosemary sprig or chopped parsley if you like. Serve your delicious meatloaf warm with extra tomato sauce on the side or your favorite sides such as mashed potatoes or veggies!
Enjoy your gooey, mozzarella-stuffed meatloaf packed with delightful flavors!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef and Pork?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for the beef and pork! Just keep in mind that the meatloaf may be a bit leaner, so you might want to add a small amount of olive oil or shredded cheese to keep it moist.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap the meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to 2 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating!
Can I Add Vegetables to the Meatloaf?
Absolutely! Chopped carrots, bell peppers, or spinach can add flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to finely chop them so they blend well with the meat mixture.
What Should I Serve with Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatloaf?
This meatloaf pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables. A simple green salad or crusty bread also makes for a lovely side dish!