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Stuffed Italian meatloaf

Stuffed Italian Meatloaf: Comfort Food with a Cheesy Surprise

Indulge in this Stuffed Italian Meatloaf, a comforting dish featuring a gooey mozzarella surprise.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Resting Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 40 minutes
Servings: 6 slices
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meatloaf
  • 1 lb Ground Beef Consider mixing with pork for richer flavor.
  • 1 cup Breadcrumbs Swap for gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Try Pecorino Romano for a sharper kick.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley Substitute with fresh oregano or thyme if desired.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Basil Dried basil works in a pinch, but fresh is recommended.
  • 1 medium Onion Shallots are a milder alternative.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
  • 1 large Eggs Vegan options include flax eggs or applesauce.
  • 1 cup Marinara Sauce Use generously for topping.
  • 1 tbsp Italian Seasoning Individual herbs like oregano can be substituted.
  • 1 tsp Salt Essential for seasoning to taste.
  • 1 tsp Pepper Essential for seasoning to taste.
For the Filling
  • 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese Creates a melty, gooey heart; cheddar offers a different flavor profile if preferred.
  • to taste Optional Filling Sliced pepperoni or prosciutto adds an unexpected savory boost inside.

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Baking Sheet
  • Parchment Paper
  • Mixing Bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Stuffed Italian Meatloaf
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Sauté finely chopped onions and minced garlic in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, parsley, basil, sautéed onions, garlic, eggs, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  4. Shape the meat mixture into a rectangle about 1 inch thick on a piece of parchment paper.
  5. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the meat rectangle, leaving a 1-inch border.
  6. Carefully roll the meatloaf using the parchment paper, encasing the cheese and optional toppings in the center.
  7. Transfer the rolled meatloaf seam-side down onto the prepared baking sheet, and spoon additional marinara sauce on top.
  8. Bake for about 60 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C) and the top is golden brown.
  9. Let the meatloaf rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing.

Nutrition

Serving: 1slicesCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender. Customize your fillings for extra flavor.

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