There's something magical about slicing into a perfectly cooked meatloaf and finding a gooey, cheesy surprise inside. This Mozzarella Stuffed Meatloaf takes a classic comfort dish to the next level with its melty cheese center and bold, savory flavors. It’s a guaranteed hit for family dinners or gatherings with friends.

I discovered this recipe when searching for ways to elevate my traditional meatloaf. After just one bite, it became a family favorite, making regular appearances on our dinner table. Let’s dive into how to create this cheesy masterpiece.

Why You'll Love This Mozzarella Stuffed Meatloaf

Get ready to fall in love with a recipe that redefines the classic meatloaf. This version offers a delicious twist that's sure to become a household staple.

First, it's an incredibly easy recipe to make. With minimal prep and straightforward steps, this dish is perfect even for busy weeknights.

The cheesy center is a game-changer. The creamy mozzarella melts beautifully inside the meatloaf, adding a decadent texture and flavor to every bite.

This recipe is also versatile and family-friendly. You can customize the ingredients to suit your taste, and picky eaters will love the surprise of melted cheese inside.

Finally, it reheats like a dream. Leftovers, if there are any, taste just as good the next day, making this meatloaf a great option for meal prep.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this recipe comes from its thoughtful combination of simple ingredients. Each element contributes to the savory, cheesy perfection of the dish.

Ground Beef and Pork are the foundation of this meatloaf. The mixture of meats creates a flavorful and moist texture. You can use all beef if you prefer, but the pork adds a subtle richness.

Breadcrumbs and Milk are essential for keeping the meatloaf tender. The breadcrumbs absorb the milk, helping the loaf retain moisture while baking.

Mozzarella Cheese is the star of the show. Opt for a block of mozzarella and cut it into strips or cubes for the best melting results. Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly.

Onions and Garlic bring depth of flavor to the dish. Sautéing them before mixing ensures they’re sweet and tender, blending perfectly with the meat.

Italian Seasoning and Parmesan Cheese add a burst of flavor, giving the meatloaf a classic Italian-inspired twist. These ingredients pair beautifully with the mozzarella.

A Ketchup and Brown Sugar Glaze creates a tangy-sweet topping that caramelizes as it bakes, balancing the savory interior.

You'll also need a loaf pan to shape and bake the meatloaf. Lining it with parchment paper makes cleanup easy and helps with lifting the loaf out.

How to Make This Mozzarella Stuffed Meatloaf

Creating this mozzarella-stuffed masterpiece is simpler than it looks. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious dinner on the table in no time.

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. While it heats, prepare your loaf pan by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it.

In a large skillet, sauté diced onions and minced garlic in a bit of olive oil until they’re soft and fragrant. Set aside to cool slightly.

In a mixing bowl, combine the ground meats, sautéed onion mixture, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, Italian seasoning, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Use your hands to gently mix everything until just combined.

Divide the meat mixture in half. Press one half into the bottom of your prepared loaf pan, creating a small well in the center. Arrange the mozzarella cheese in a single layer within the well, keeping it away from the edges to prevent leaks. Top with the remaining meat mixture, pressing firmly to seal the cheese inside.

In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, and a splash of Worcestershire sauce for the glaze. Spread it evenly over the top of the meatloaf.

Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing to allow the cheese to set slightly.

Storage Options

This meatloaf is just as delicious the next day, making it ideal for leftovers or meal prep. Here’s how to store it:

To refrigerate, place leftover slices in an airtight container and store for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

For freezing, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

When reheating, cover the slices with foil to retain moisture. For a crispy glaze, remove the foil for the last few minutes of reheating.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is endlessly adaptable, allowing you to tailor it to your taste and dietary needs.

Swap the mozzarella for other cheeses like cheddar or provolone for a different flavor profile.

If you prefer a lighter version, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef and pork. Adjust the seasoning to complement the milder meats.

For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the meat mixture. Pepper Jack cheese is also a great substitution for mozzarella.

Vegetables like spinach or bell peppers can be added to the filling for extra nutrition and texture.

Gluten-free? Use gluten-free breadcrumbs, and double-check that all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with variations, this Mozzarella Stuffed Meatloaf is sure to be a hit. It’s a warm, comforting meal that brings everyone to the table, eager for a slice of cheesy goodness.