Mozzarella Stuffed Meatloaf Recipe

There's something incredibly comforting about slicing into a meatloaf to reveal a gooey, melted mozzarella center. This hearty, flavorful recipe is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, combining tender ground beef, savory seasonings, and a cheesy surprise that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

this Recipe

I first tried stuffing meatloaf with mozzarella on a whim, inspired by my love of lasagna. The result? A crowd-pleasing dish that's now a staple in our home. Let’s dive in and discover how easy it is to create this showstopping dinner.

Why You'll Love This Mozzarella Stuffed Meatloaf

Get ready to fall in love with this twist on a classic comfort food. It's not just a meal; it's a delightful experience for your taste buds and a joy to serve.

First, the cheesy center is a game-changer. Each slice reveals a molten mozzarella core that pairs perfectly with the savory meat. It’s indulgent yet balanced.

This recipe is also super versatile. Pair it with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or even a crisp salad for a complete meal. It’s ideal for weeknight dinners or a more elaborate weekend spread.

Easy prep and minimal cleanup make this meatloaf a favorite for busy cooks. With just one mixing bowl and a baking dish, you’ll have a delicious dinner ready in no time.

Finally, this meatloaf is great for leftovers. Slice it up for sandwiches the next day or reheat and serve with your favorite sides. It’s just as delicious the second time around.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Mozzarella Stuffed Meatloaf lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients. Each one contributes to a perfectly balanced dish with rich flavors and satisfying textures.

Ground beef is the foundation of the meatloaf. For the best results, use a mix of 80% lean and 20% fat. This ratio keeps the meatloaf moist and flavorful without being greasy.

Breadcrumbs act as the binder, ensuring the loaf holds its shape while maintaining a tender texture. You can use plain or seasoned breadcrumbs depending on your flavor preferences.

Mozzarella cheese is the star of the show. Opt for low-moisture mozzarella for a cheesy center that melts beautifully without making the meatloaf watery.

Eggs provide structure to the loaf. They help bind the ingredients together and give the meatloaf its classic, firm yet tender consistency.

Seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and Italian herbs bring depth and warmth to the meat. Don’t skip these—they elevate the flavor to restaurant-quality levels.

You’ll also need a loaf pan to shape and bake the meatloaf evenly. If you don’t have one, you can shape the loaf by hand on a lined baking sheet.

How To Make This Mozzarella Stuffed Meatloaf

Making this cheesy meatloaf is straightforward, and the results are worth every step. Let’s break it down into simple stages.

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats, prepare your ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, and your choice of seasonings. Mix gently with your hands until just combined—overmixing can make the meatloaf tough.

Next, divide the mixture in half. Press one half into the bottom of your loaf pan, creating a shallow indentation in the center. This will hold the mozzarella cheese, so make it wide enough to fit a generous layer.

Lay slices or chunks of mozzarella cheese evenly in the indentation. Be careful not to let the cheese touch the edges; this prevents leakage during baking. Once the cheese is in place, cover it with the remaining meat mixture. Smooth the top and edges to seal the cheese inside completely.

Bake the meatloaf uncovered for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). The top should be browned, and the aroma filling your kitchen will be irresistible.

For a finishing touch, you can brush the top of the meatloaf with your favorite sauce—like marinara or a spiced tomato glaze—during the last 10 minutes of baking. Let the loaf rest for 10 minutes after removing it from the oven to make slicing easier.

Storage Options

This Mozzarella Stuffed Meatloaf stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or enjoying leftovers.

If you have any leftover meatloaf, wrap it tightly in foil or place it in an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

For longer storage, slice the meatloaf and wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen meatloaf can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

To reheat, warm slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes. You can also use a microwave, but cover the meatloaf with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how customizable it is. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:

Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. The texture and flavors remain fantastic with these options.

Experiment with different cheeses. While mozzarella is classic, cheddar, provolone, or even pepper jack can add a new dimension of flavor.

Add diced vegetables like onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the meat mixture for a boost of nutrition and texture. Just make sure to sauté them first to avoid excess moisture.

For a spiced-up version, mix red chili flakes or finely diced jalapeños into the meat mixture. This adds a subtle kick that pairs beautifully with the creamy cheese.

Serve with a side of marinara sauce for dipping, giving the meatloaf a fun Italian-inspired twist.

No matter how you customize it, this Mozzarella Stuffed Meatloaf will remain a beloved dish in your repertoire. Try it today and watch it become an instant family favorite!

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