Welcome to my kitchen nooks! Today, I’m diving into a recipe that’s been a staple in my family for generations, Cheesy Meatloaf with Stuffed Mozzarella. This dish has been turning ordinary family dinners into unforgettable memories for as long as I can remember. Now, don’t get too caught up in the idea that meatloaf is just another everyday dinner item—this particular version is something special.
I can still picture those hectic weekdays when I needed to whip up something quick yet fulfilling for the family. I discovered that this cheesy meatloaf never fails to bring silence to the table as everyone savors the gooey mozzarella center, so it quickly became a household favorite. My first encounter with this recipe was during a cozy Sunday family dinner at my grandma’s house. In between bites of her hearty cooking and laughs around the table, she shared her secret to keeping the meatloaf tender and juicy.
Ever since that day, it’s like every time I prepare this dish, I’m back in grammy’s kitchen, filled with warmth and love. What’s the charm, you ask? It’s that surprise cheesy center contrasted with the rich, savory meatloaf. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, fitting right into busy weeknights or more leisurely weekends. You might even say this recipe is a time capsule—bringing back that texture and flavor that hits just right every single time. Twice a month, at least, I find myself serving this meatloaf alongside a simple side salad or buttery mashed potatoes, capturing an entire feeling of comfort on a plate.
So whether you’re new to cooking or have been at it for years, this Cheesy Meatloaf with Stuffed Mozzarella is perfect for strutting your stuff in the kitchen without breaking a sweat. Why not give it a try and create some new memories in your own home? Gather your ingredients, son or daughter by your side, and let’s start this delightful culinary journey together. I promise—your family will thank you for it, just like mine does every single time.
How to Make Cheesy Meatloaf With Stuffed Mozzarella
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Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 stalk celery, finely chopped
- 1/2 small green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 large egg
- 4 tablespoons breadcrumbs
- 1 handful fresh parsley, finely chopped, or 1 teaspoon dried
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- 2 teaspoons Italian herbs
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For Stuffing:
- 4 oz mozzarella cheese, diced
For Topping:
- 1/2 cup ketchup or your favorite meatloaf sauce
Directions:
- First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil and give it a quick spritz of cooking spray—it’ll save you time on cleanup later.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients for the meatloaf. If you have a hand mixer and a dough hook handy, use it to keep things nice and tidy while mixing.
- Form the meat mixture into a loaf shape right on your baking sheet. Carve a groove along the top and fill it with the mozzarella cubes, then pinch to seal it up.
- Generously spread a third of your sauce over the formed meatloaf. Place it in the oven for an initial 30 minutes of baking.
- After that, pull it out carefully, slather another third of the sauce on top, and return it to the oven for an additional 20 to 30 minutes. It should reach an internal temp of 160°F.
- When fully cooked, take the meatloaf out of the oven. Coat it with the remaining sauce and let it stand for about 10 minutes to seal in all the flavors before slicing. Enjoy every melty, savory bite!
No Mozzarella? Here’s What to Use Instead
It’s easy to substitute mozzarella if you’re fresh out or looking to switch up flavors. Cheese like provolone or even gouda would melt beautifully and add a unique twist to each slice. For a lighter option, try ricotta; its creamy texture pairs wonderfully with the texture of the meatloaf.
The Best Way to Store Meatloaf Leftovers
To keep your meatloaf as delicious as day one, wrap leftovers tightly in aluminum foil or store them in an airtight container. They’ll last in the fridge for up to three days. Want to store it longer? Try freezing individual slices for quick meals later.
Perfect Pairings for Cheesy Meatloaf
Pair this cheesy delight with buttery mashed potatoes or a crisp green salad to round out the meal. For a splash of color and freshness, sautéed green beans or honey-glazed carrots can add both artistry and taste to your serving platter. Don’t forget the garlic bread for extra indulgence.
How to Make This Meatloaf Fit Any Time of Year
In the spring, try adding freshly chopped herbs like basil and thyme. Summer’s bounty allows you to include zucchini or corn, while fall is perfect for a hint of nutmeg or allspice. Winter can bring warmth with a touch of chili powder to turn up the heat.
Cooking Hacks to Elevate this Cheesy Meatloaf
Enhance your meatloaf by sautéing the vegetables in olive oil before mixing them in—they’ll blend perfectly with the ground beef. To prevent over-baking, use a meat thermometer to guarantee it’s perfectly cooked. Adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce can also profoundly deepen the flavor.
FAQs:
How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked?
To ensure your meatloaf is fully cooked, use an instant-read thermometer. Insert it into the center of the loaf, and when it reads 160°F, you’re good to go. Cooking times can vary due to different oven models, so relying on temperature ensures great results every time.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey can be a leaner, healthier alternative to beef. Just make sure to adjust your cooking time as turkey tends to cook faster. You might also want to add a bit more moisture, like a splash of broth or an additional egg, to prevent it from drying out.
Is there a way to make this meatloaf gluten-free?
Yes, to make the recipe gluten-free, simply substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free brands or use crushed cornflakes or almond flour. Just ensure that any other added ingredients, such as ketchup or sauces, are also gluten-free to keep the dish safe for those with dietary restrictions.
Can this meatloaf be prepared in advance?
Certainly! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture and shape it into the loaf one day ahead. Store it covered in the refrigerator and bake as directed the next day. This makes it a convenient make-ahead meal for busy days or when entertaining guests.
What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
To reheat your meatloaf, you can use the oven to maintain its texture. Cover slices with foil to keep moisture locked in and bake at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, if you’re in a rush, use the microwave on a lower power setting to warm it up without overheating.
Can I add other vegetables to the meatloaf?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with various vegetables to cater to your taste. Mushrooms, carrots, or spinach can add flavor and nutrients. Just ensure they’re finely chopped to blend seamlessly with the meat mixture and consider lightly sautéing firmer veggies before adding them in.
Cheesy Meatloaf With Stuffed Mozzarella
Equipment
- oven
- mixing bowl
- baking sheet
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 1 stalk celery finely chopped
- 1/2 small green bell pepper finely chopped
- 1 large egg
- 4 tablespoons breadcrumbs
- 1 handful fresh parsley finely chopped or 1 teaspoon dried
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- 2 teaspoons Italian herbs
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For Stuffing:
- 4 ounces mozzarella cheese diced
For Topping:
- 1/2 cup ketchup or your favorite meatloaf sauce
Instructions
- Start by covering a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil and lightly spray it with cooking oil for easier cleanup. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine all meatloaf ingredients. Using a hand mixer with a dough hook can help keep things tidy.
- Form the meat mixture into a loaf on the prepared baking sheet, creating a deep indent along the center to hold the diced mozzarella. Pinch the meat around the top to seal it.
- Spread one third of the sauce over the meatloaf. Bake it for approximately 30 minutes.
- After 30 minutes, carefully add another third of the sauce and continue baking for an additional 20 to 30 minutes, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
- Once the meatloaf is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and apply the remaining sauce. Allow it to rest for 10 minutes before slicing to serve. Enjoy your meal!
