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Italian Meatloaf

Irresistible Italian Meatloaf with Cheesy Surprise Filling

This Italian Meatloaf features a cheesy surprise filling that makes it a family favorite and is perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 6 slices
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Meatloaf
  • 1 pound Ground Beef opt for 80/20 for maximum flavor
  • 1 pound Ground Italian Sausage swap for turkey for a leaner version
  • 1 cup Breadcrumbs gluten-free breadcrumbs work fine if needed
  • 2 large Eggs use room temperature eggs for easier mixing
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder fresh minced garlic can be a fantastic alternative
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder try freshly diced onions for a unique texture
  • 2 tablespoons Italian Seasoning a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme is ideal
  • to taste Salt and Pepper adjust to fit your taste perfectly
For the Cheesy Filling
  • 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese replace with provolone for a different twist
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese feel free to omit for a lighter option
  • 1 cup Spinach optional; fresh herbs like basil can be substituted
For the Topping
  • 1 cup Marinara Sauce homemade or store-bought will both shine

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Mixing bowl
  • Baking Pan
  • Meat Thermometer
  • parchment paper

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cheesy Stuffed Italian Meatloaf
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground Italian sausage, breadcrumbs, eggs, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
  3. In a separate bowl, mix together mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and spinach (if using).
  4. Lay out a piece of parchment paper and transfer the meat mixture onto it, shaping it into a rectangle about 1-inch thick.
  5. Spread the cheese filling evenly over the shaped meat mixture, leaving a small border.
  6. Carefully roll the meat mixture up using the parchment paper, tucking the filling in as you go. Place seam-side down in a baking pan.
  7. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  8. During the last 10 minutes of baking, spread marinara sauce over the top of the meatloaf.
  9. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
  10. Slice and serve with additional marinara sauce, garlic bread, or a light salad.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 3mg

Notes

This Italian Meatloaf is customizable with various fillings and pairs well with garlic bread or salad.

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