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Parmesan Meatloaf with Marinara & Mozzarella Cheese

Parmesan Meatloaf with Marinara & Mozzarella Cheese
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This Parmesan Meatloaf with Marinara & Mozzarella Cheese is a comforting, cheesy, and crowd-pleasing meal that transforms traditional meatloaf with savory parmesan, tangy marinara sauce, and gooey mozzarella cheese. Perfect for families or easy weeknight dinners, this recipe combines rich flavors, satisfying textures, and a wonderful aroma to create an unforgettable hearty dish.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat Mixture

  • 1 ½ pounds ground beef (80/20 recommended for best flavor and moisture)
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup bread crumbs (use gluten-free bread crumbs if needed)
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ cup finely minced onion
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or fresh basil/oregano for variation)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

Cheese & Sauce Layer

  • 1 to 1 ½ cups shredded or sliced mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, bread crumbs, minced garlic and onion, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix gently using your hands or a spoon until just combined, being careful not to overwork to keep the meat tender.
  2. Shape the Meatloaf and Add Mozzarella: On a parchment-lined baking sheet or inside a loaf pan, form half of the meat mixture into a rectangular loaf shape. Layer shredded or sliced mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Cover this cheese layer with the remaining meat mixture, sealing the cheese inside the meatloaf for a gooey center.
  3. Top with Marinara Sauce: Generously spread marinara sauce over the entire top of the meatloaf, making sure it is completely covered to keep the meat moist and infuse the flavor during baking.
  4. Bake to Perfection: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the meatloaf for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the top is bubbly and lightly browned. Cover loosely with foil if browning occurs too quickly.
  5. Rest and Serve: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes so the juices redistribute and the mozzarella remains melty. Slice and serve warm, optionally with extra marinara sauce on the side.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated Parmesan and fresh mozzarella for the best flavor and texture.
  • Do not overmix the meat mixture to keep the meatloaf tender and avoid a dense texture.
  • Cover loosely with foil during baking if the top starts browning too fast to prevent burning.
  • Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure safe and perfect cooking.
  • Allow the meatloaf to rest before slicing to keep the cheese melty and the meat juicy.

Nutrition

Keywords: parmesan meatloaf, mozzarella meatloaf, marinara meatloaf, cheesy meatloaf, gluten free meatloaf, comfort food, baked meatloaf

Find it online: https://dailydishez.com/parmesan-meatloaf-with-marinara-mozzarella-cheese/