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Stuffed Meatloaf with Mozzarella

Stuffed Meatloaf with Mozzarella
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Juicy and cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf with Mozzarella that combines seasoned ground beef with a gooey mozzarella center. Perfect for a comforting homemade meal that’s simple to make, customizable, and sure to impress family and guests.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef (lean with some fat for moisture)
  • 6 oz mozzarella cheese (fresh slices or shredded)
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (regular or gluten-free)
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup tomato sauce or ketchup (for glaze)
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for sautéing)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Meat Mixture: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat and sauté chopped onions and garlic until translucent and fragrant. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, sautéed onions and garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined, avoiding overworking the meat to maintain tenderness.
  2. Shape the Base Layer: On a large piece of parchment paper or a greased baking tray, spread half of the meat mixture into a rectangular shape about 1 inch thick. This will form the base to hold the mozzarella filling.
  3. Add the Mozzarella Filling: Evenly layer the mozzarella over the base meat layer, leaving a small border around the edges to prevent cheese leakage during baking.
  4. Top with Remaining Meat: Gently cover the mozzarella with the remaining meat mixture, sealing the edges well to encase the cheese completely. Press lightly to smooth the surface for even cooking.
  5. Glaze and Bake: Spread a generous layer of tomato sauce or ketchup on top of the meatloaf for a delicious glaze. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 60 to 75 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the top is nicely browned. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  6. Rest and Serve: Let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes after baking to lock in juices and allow cleaner slices. Serve warm to reveal the melty mozzarella center.

Notes

  • Do not overwork the meat mixture to keep the meatloaf tender and moist.
  • Leave a small border around the mozzarella layer to avoid cheese oozing out.
  • Shape the meatloaf evenly for thorough and uniform cooking.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf is cooked to perfection (160°F / 71°C internal temp).
  • Let the meatloaf rest after baking to allow juices to redistribute for better flavor and texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: stuffed meatloaf, mozzarella, cheesy meatloaf, comfort food, baked meatloaf, homemade dinner, easy meatloaf

Find it online: https://dailydishez.com/stuffed-meatloaf-with-mozzarella/