Discover the Best Stuffed Italian Meatloaf Recipe for Dinner

Preparing a mouthwatering Stuffed Italian Meatloaf is a surefire way to delight your family and guests. This classic comfort food dish combines the savory richness of ground beef and Italian sausage with a flavorful, cheesy filling that’s sure to become a new favorite. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing centerpiece for your next gathering, this Stuffed Italian Meatloaf recipe is the answer.

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A Tasty Twist on a Timeless Favorite

Meatloaf has been a beloved staple in American cuisine for generations, and for good reason. The combination of ground meat, breadcrumbs, and seasonings creates a hearty, satisfying dish that’s easy to prepare and endlessly customizable. But by adding a savory, cheesy filling, the Stuffed Italian Meatloaf takes this familiar favorite to new culinary heights.

The key to this recipe’s success lies in the perfect balance of bold Italian flavors and the comfort of a homemade meatloaf. The ground beef and Italian sausage provide a rich, savory base, while the addition of garlic, onions, and Italian seasoning infuses the meat with aromatic, Mediterranean-inspired notes. The creamy mozzarella cheese and fresh spinach (if desired) in the center offer a delightful contrast to the firm, flavorful exterior.

Ingredients for the Perfect Stuffed Italian Meatloaf

To create this crowd-pleasing dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Meatloaf:

• 1 1/2 lbs ground beef
• 1/2 lb ground Italian sausage
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup bread crumbs
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 tbsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tbsp parsley, chopped
• 1/2 cup milk
• Salt and pepper to taste

Filling:

• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 cup spinach, chopped (optional)
• 1/4 cup marinara sauce

Topping:

• 1/2 cup marinara sauce
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

Preparing the Stuffed Italian Meatloaf

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to begin the process of creating this delectable Stuffed Italian Meatloaf. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground Italian sausage, chopped onion, minced garlic, bread crumbs, eggs, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, parsley, milk, salt, and pepper. Mix these ingredients until they are well combined, ensuring a uniform distribution of flavors.

On a piece of parchment paper or a lightly greased baking sheet, shape half of the meat mixture into a rectangular base, approximately 9×5 inches in size. This will serve as the foundation for your stuffed meatloaf. Evenly spread the mozzarella cheese, chopped spinach (if using), and marinara sauce over the meat layer, leaving a small border around the edges.

Carefully cover the filling with the remaining meat mixture, sealing the edges to create a complete loaf. Finish by spreading 1/2 cup of marinara sauce over the top of the meatloaf and sprinkling with 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.

Place the assembled Stuffed Italian Meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy this delicious, cheesy, and comforting dish with additional marinara sauce on the side, if desired.

Frequently Asked Questions About Stuffed Italian Meatloaf

What type of meat works best for this meatloaf?

The combination of ground beef and ground Italian sausage in this recipe provides the perfect balance of flavor and texture. The beef offers a rich, hearty base, while the Italian sausage adds a touch of spice and seasoning. However, you can experiment with other ground meats, such as ground turkey or pork, to suit your personal preferences.

Can I make the meatloaf ahead of time and bake it later?

Absolutely! Stuffed Italian Meatloaf is an excellent make-ahead dish. You can prepare the entire meatloaf, including the filling and topping, in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. When it’s time to cook, simply pop it in the oven and follow the baking instructions. This makes it a great option for busy weeknights or when you’re entertaining guests.

What can I use as a filling for the stuffed meatloaf?

The classic filling for this recipe is a combination of mozzarella cheese and fresh spinach, but you can easily customize it to your liking. Other delicious options include different types of cheese (such as ricotta, Parmesan, or provolone), roasted vegetables, sautéed mushrooms, or a mix of your favorite Italian-inspired ingredients.

How should I store leftovers, and how long do they keep?

Leftover Stuffed Italian Meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For longer-term storage, you can wrap the meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw the meatloaf in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat it in the oven until heated through.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
• Bourbon Peach Upside Down Cake
• Ranch Chicken Crock Pot
• Fresh Peach Fritters

Conclusion

Stuffed Italian Meatloaf is a delectable and satisfying dish that’s sure to become a new family favorite. With its savory ground meat, aromatic Italian seasonings, and melty cheese-and-spinach filling, this meatloaf is a comforting and flavorful masterpiece. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to savor the deliciousness of Stuffed Italian Meatloaf!

Looking for more tasty ideas? Visit Elena’s Fast & Flavorful Recipes on Pinterest for a treasure trove of easy meals, comforting bakes, and fun kitchen inspiration!

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