Stuffed Italian Meatloaf – Savory, Cheesy & Comforting

There’s something about a classic meatloaf that instantly feels like home—but adding an Italian twist takes it to a whole new level. Our Stuffed Italian Meatloaf is packed with rich flavors, oozing melty cheese, and a medley of Italian-inspired seasonings. It’s hearty, comforting, and perfect for family dinners or meal prep for the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This meatloaf is more than just a meal—it’s a showstopper. The savory ground beef and Italian sausage blend, combined with garlic, herbs, and Parmesan, creates deep, satisfying flavor. Stuffing it with mozzarella or provolone adds a gooey, melty surprise in every slice. It’s both comforting and elegant, making it a perfect centerpiece for dinner.

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Nutritional Information

While indulgent, this meatloaf also provides protein, iron, and essential nutrients from wholesome ingredients. Pair it with a side of roasted vegetables or a crisp salad to balance your meal.

• Calories: ~420 per serving
  
• Protein: 28g
  
• Carbohydrates: 10g
  
• Fat: 30g
  
• Fiber: 1g

Time Breakdown

This stuffed Italian meatloaf comes together in a reasonable amount of time, with prep, assembly, and baking streamlined for simplicity. It’s ideal for a weekend dinner or when you want a comforting, homemade meal without unnecessary stress.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
  
• Cook Time: 50–60 minutes
  
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Ingredients You’ll Need

The flavor of this meatloaf comes from quality ingredients and the right balance of Italian herbs. Fresh cheese, a mix of meats, and aromatic seasonings make every bite satisfying.

For the Meatloaf:

• 1 lb ground beef
  
• 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
  
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
  
• ½ cup milk
  
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
  
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
  
• 2 eggs
  
• ½ cup grated Parmesan
  
• 2 tsp Italian seasoning
  
• Salt & pepper to taste
  

For the Stuffing:

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella or provolone
  
• Optional: ½ cup roasted red peppers or spinach for extra flavor
  

For the Glaze:

• ½ cup marinara sauce
  
• 2 tbsp ketchup

Condensed Grocery Checklist

Shopping for this stuffed meatloaf is straightforward, with ingredients you can find at most supermarkets. Fresh herbs, quality cheese, and good ground meats are key to making this dish shine.

• Ground beef & Italian sausage
  
• Breadcrumbs & milk
  
• Onion & garlic
  
• Parmesan & mozzarella/provolone
  
• Italian seasoning & eggs
  
• Marinara sauce & ketchup

How to Make – Step by Step

Creating this stuffed Italian meatloaf is easier than it looks. With a few simple steps—mixing, layering, glazing, and baking—you’ll have a hearty, cheesy centerpiece ready to impress. Even beginners can follow along and achieve a perfectly cooked, flavorful loaf.

1. Prep the Meat Mixture – In a large bowl, combine ground beef, Italian sausage, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, onion, garlic, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until combined.
   
2. Assemble the Loaf – Flatten half of the meat mixture into a loaf shape on a lined baking sheet or in a loaf pan. Layer the cheese (and optional veggies) in the center, then cover with the remaining meat mixture, sealing edges carefully.
   
3. Add the Glaze & Bake – Mix marinara sauce with ketchup and spread over the top of the meatloaf. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 50–60 minutes, or until fully cooked and internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
   
4. Rest & Serve – Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute and the cheese to set slightly.

Ingredient Swaps & Variations

One of the joys of this recipe is how customizable it is. From swapping meats and cheeses to adding extra veggies or herbs, you can tweak the flavors to suit your taste while keeping the loaf deliciously satisfying.

• Use all ground beef, turkey, or chicken for a lighter option.
  
• Swap mozzarella for provolone, fontina, or even cheddar for different cheesy flavors.
  
• Add herbs like fresh basil or parsley for an aromatic boost.
  
• Incorporate vegetables like spinach, roasted red peppers, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

This stuffed meatloaf is hearty enough to stand alone but also pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Whether you prefer roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad, there are plenty of ways to make it a complete, well-rounded meal.

• Garlic mashed potatoes or roasted baby potatoes
  
• Steamed or roasted vegetables like green beans, zucchini, or broccoli
  
• A crisp Caesar or mixed green salad
  
• Fresh crusty bread to soak up juices and sauce

Storing Tips

Keeping your meatloaf fresh and flavorful is simple with the right storage techniques. With a few easy tricks, you can enjoy leftovers or prep portions ahead of time without losing taste or texture.

• Store cooled meatloaf in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
  
• Slice and freeze portions for up to 2 months; reheat in the oven or microwave.
  
• Keep the glaze separate if reheating to maintain texture.

Chef’s Special Tips

Small touches make a big difference in achieving the perfect meatloaf. From handling the meat gently to letting it rest before slicing, these tips ensure every bite is tender, juicy, and perfectly cheesy.

• Don’t overmix the meat to keep it tender.
  
• Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking and drying out the loaf.
  
• Let the meatloaf rest before slicing to keep the cheese melty but contained.

Conclusion

This Stuffed Italian Meatloaf is a comforting, flavorful twist on a classic. Melty cheese, Italian herbs, and hearty meat combine to create a dish that’s both satisfying and elegant. Perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend family gatherings, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.

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