Stuffed Italian Meatloaf: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Stuffed Italian Meatloaf: Prepare to experience meatloaf like never before! Forget everything you thought you knew about this classic comfort food because we’re about to elevate it to a whole new level of deliciousness. Imagine sinking your teeth into a juicy, flavorful meatloaf, not just any meatloaf, but one bursting with a savory, cheesy, and utterly irresistible filling. This isn’t your grandma’s meatloaf (unless your grandma was secretly a culinary genius!).

Meatloaf itself has a fascinating history, evolving from scrappy “hachis” dishes designed to use up leftover meat. Over time, it transformed into the hearty, family-friendly meal we know and love. But the addition of Italian flavors and a generous, gooey stuffing takes it from ordinary to extraordinary. Think of it as a deconstructed lasagna, but in meatloaf form!

People adore meatloaf for its comforting simplicity and satisfying heartiness. It’s a dish that evokes feelings of warmth and nostalgia. But this Stuffed Italian Meatloaf offers so much more. The combination of seasoned ground meat, aromatic herbs, and a molten cheese filling creates a symphony of flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner, yet impressive enough to serve to guests. Plus, leftovers (if there are any!) make fantastic sandwiches. Get ready to fall in love with meatloaf all over again!

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend is ideal for flavor and moisture)
• 1 pound Italian sausage, removed from casings
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (Italian seasoned preferred, but plain works too)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 (24 ounce) jar marinara sauce, divided
• 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, sliced
• 4 ounces provolone cheese, sliced
• ½ cup chopped roasted red peppers, drained
• ¼ cup pitted Kalamata olives, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Preparing the Meat Mixture:

Okay, let’s get started! The first step is to create the flavorful base for our meatloaf. This is where we combine all the ingredients that will make it juicy and delicious.

1. In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef and Italian sausage. It’s important not to overmix at this stage, as that can lead to a tough meatloaf. Just use your hands to lightly break up the meats and distribute them evenly.

2. Add the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, eggs, chopped onion, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Again, mix gently but thoroughly. You want everything to be well incorporated, but avoid compacting the meat.

3. Pour in ½ cup of the marinara sauce. This will add moisture and flavor to the meatloaf. Mix it in gently until everything is just combined. The mixture should be moist but not soggy. If it seems too wet, add a tablespoon or two more of breadcrumbs.

Assembling the Stuffed Meatloaf:

Now for the fun part – stuffing our meatloaf with all those delicious Italian flavors! This is where the magic happens, and it’s easier than you might think.

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a large baking sheet or a 9×13 inch baking dish. I prefer using a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

2. On a large sheet of parchment paper or a clean, flat surface, gently press the meat mixture into a large rectangle, about 12×16 inches in size and about 1 inch thick. Try to keep the thickness as even as possible for even cooking.

3. Layer the mozzarella cheese slices evenly over the meat rectangle, leaving about a 1-inch border around the edges. This will help prevent the cheese from melting out during baking.

4. Next, layer the provolone cheese slices over the mozzarella. Don’t be shy – we want plenty of cheesy goodness in every bite!

5. Sprinkle the chopped roasted red peppers and Kalamata olives evenly over the cheese. These add a burst of flavor and color to the meatloaf.

6. Carefully lift one of the long sides of the parchment paper and begin rolling the meatloaf tightly, like a jelly roll. Use the parchment paper to help you keep the roll tight and even. Pinch the seam to seal it closed.

7. Gently transfer the rolled meatloaf to the prepared baking sheet or dish, seam-side down. Tuck the ends under slightly to prevent the filling from leaking out.

Baking and Finishing Touches:

Almost there! Now we just need to bake our masterpiece and add the final touches that will make it truly irresistible.

1. In a small bowl, combine the remaining marinara sauce with the olive oil. This will create a rich and flavorful sauce to glaze the meatloaf.

2. Brush the entire surface of the meatloaf with the marinara sauce mixture. This will help it stay moist and give it a beautiful, glossy finish.

3. Bake in the preheated oven for 60-75 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Use a meat thermometer inserted into the center of the meatloaf to ensure it’s fully cooked. The juices should run clear when pierced with a fork.

4. Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meatloaf. Tent it loosely with foil to keep it warm.

5. Slice the meatloaf into thick slices and serve immediately. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. I like to serve it with extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping.

Tips for the Perfect Stuffed Italian Meatloaf:

• Don’t overmix the meat: Overmixing leads to a tough meatloaf. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
• Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to ensure your meatloaf is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
• Let it rest: Resting the meatloaf after baking is crucial for retaining moisture and flavor.
• Customize the filling: Feel free to add other ingredients to the filling, such as spinach, mushrooms, or different types of cheese.
• Make it ahead: You can assemble the meatloaf ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

Serving Suggestions:

This stuffed Italian meatloaf is a complete meal on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are a few of my favorites:

• Mashed potatoes
• Roasted vegetables (such as broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts)
• Garlic bread
• A simple green salad
• Pasta with marinara sauce

Storage Instructions:

Leftover meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Freezing Instructions:

To freeze, wrap the cooled meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Variations:

• Spicy Meatloaf: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat mixture for a little heat.
• Vegetarian Meatloaf: Substitute the ground beef and sausage with a plant-based ground meat alternative.
• Gluten-Free Meatloaf: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs in place of regular breadcrumbs.
• Different Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese in the filling, such as fontina, asiago, or ricotta.

Troubleshooting:

• Meatloaf is dry: Make sure you’re using a high-fat ground beef blend and adding enough moisture to the meat mixture. You can also try adding a tablespoon or two of olive oil or milk.
• Meatloaf is falling apart: This could be due to overmixing or not using enough breadcrumbs. Make sure to mix gently and add enough breadcrumbs to bind the meat together.
• Cheese is melting out: Make sure to leave a 1-inch border around the edges when layering the cheese. You can also try chilling the meatloaf in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before baking to help the cheese stay in place.

Conclusion:

This isn’t just meatloaf; it’s a culinary adventure, a comforting hug on a plate, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser all rolled into one delicious package. The Stuffed Italian Meatloaf is a must-try because it elevates a classic dish to something truly special. The combination of savory ground meat, flavorful Italian sausage, gooey mozzarella, and vibrant vegetables creates a symphony of textures and tastes that will have everyone begging for seconds. Forget dry, bland meatloaf – this recipe delivers moist, tender perfection every single time.

But the real magic lies in the stuffing. That molten core of cheese and vegetables adds an unexpected burst of flavor and visual appeal that transforms this meatloaf from ordinary to extraordinary. It’s the kind of dish that makes weeknight dinners feel like a special occasion, and it’s impressive enough to serve to guests. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make! Don’t let the “stuffed” part intimidate you; the instructions are straightforward, and the results are well worth the effort.

Looking for serving suggestions? This Stuffed Italian Meatloaf is fantastic served with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and roasted asparagus. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette also complements the richness of the meatloaf beautifully. For a truly Italian-inspired meal, serve it alongside some crusty bread for soaking up all those delicious juices.

And the possibilities don’t stop there! Feel free to get creative with the stuffing. Swap out the mozzarella for provolone or fontina for a different cheesy flavor. Add some sun-dried tomatoes or artichoke hearts for an extra Mediterranean twist. If you’re feeling adventurous, try incorporating some cooked spinach or kale into the stuffing for added nutrients and a pop of color. You could even add a layer of ricotta cheese for extra creaminess. The beauty of this recipe is that it’s incredibly versatile and can be easily adapted to your own preferences.

Variations to Try:

* Spicy Meatloaf: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat mixture for a little kick.
* Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground meat with a plant-based alternative and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
* Gluten-Free Meatloaf: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

I truly believe that this Stuffed Italian Meatloaf will become a new family favorite. It’s a dish that’s both comforting and exciting, familiar yet unique. It’s the perfect way to bring everyone together around the table and create lasting memories.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience meatloaf like never before. I’m confident that you’ll love this recipe as much as I do.

Once you’ve tried it, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your photos and comments on social media using #StuffedItalianMeatloaf and let me know what variations you tried. Did you add any special ingredients? Did your family love it? I can’t wait to see your creations and hear your stories. Happy cooking!

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