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Stuffed Italian Meatloaf Recipe
This Italian-style meatloaf is loaded with flavor from a savory filling of mozzarella cheese, spinach, and Italian herbs. It’s the perfect combination of tender meat and gooey, cheesy goodness.
Ingredients:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably 80% lean)
- 1 lb ground pork
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian-style)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup milk
For the Stuffing:
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese (optional for extra creaminess)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- 1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
- In a bowl, mix together the spinach, mozzarella cheese, ricotta (if using), Parmesan, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, eggs, garlic, onion, parsley, basil, oregano, salt, pepper, and milk. Mix well until everything is fully combined, but be careful not to overwork the meat.
3. Assemble the Meatloaf:
- On a large sheet of parchment paper or a clean surface, spread out the meat mixture into a rectangular shape, about 1/2 inch thick.
- Spoon the stuffing mixture in the center of the meat, spreading it out evenly, but leaving about an inch around the edges.
- Carefully lift the sides of the meat to fold over the filling, creating a loaf shape. Pinch the seams together to seal in the stuffing.
4. Bake the Meatloaf:
- Place the stuffed meatloaf onto the prepared baking sheet or into the loaf pan.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 60-70 minutes, or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
5. Top with Marinara:
- In the last 10 minutes of baking, spoon the marinara sauce over the top of the meatloaf, spreading it out evenly.
- Return to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes.
6. Serve:
- Once the meatloaf is cooked through, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
- Garnish with fresh basil and serve with additional marinara sauce on the side.
Tips:
- You can use lean ground beef for a healthier option, but a mix of beef and pork gives the meatloaf better flavor and moisture.
- If you want to make the meatloaf ahead of time, you can assemble it the day before and refrigerate it until ready to bake.
- Pair this with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad for a complete meal!
Enjoy your delicious stuffed Italian meatloaf!
