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Stuffed Italian Meatloaf

Savory Stuffed Italian Meatloaf for Cozy Family Dinners

This Stuffed Italian Meatloaf is a comforting dish with garlic, herbs, and a gooey mozzarella core, perfect for family dinners.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Resting Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6 slices
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

Meatloaf
  • 1 lb Ground Beef Substitute with ground turkey for a leaner option.
  • 1 cup Breadcrumbs Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Substitute with pecorino for a different taste.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley Can swap with dried herbs (use 1/3 of the amount).
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Basil Dried basil can be used instead, in smaller quantities.
  • 1 medium Onion (finely chopped) Shallots can be used for a milder taste.
  • 2 cloves Garlic (minced) Fresh garlic is preferable, garlic powder works in a pinch.
  • 2 large Eggs Substitute with flaxseed meal mixed with water for a vegan option.
  • 2 teaspoons Italian Seasoning Substitute with a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme.
  • to taste Salt and Pepper Enhances overall flavor.
Filling
  • 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese (shredded) Swap with any melty cheese like provolone.
  • to taste Optional Sliced Pepperoni or Prosciutto Can omit for a classic version.
Topping
  • 1 cup Marinara Sauce Use homemade or store-bought, extra sauce needed for topping.

Equipment

  • Baking Sheet
  • parchment paper
  • Medium Skillet
  • large mixing bowl
  • sharp knife

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or greasing it.
  2. In a medium skillet, add olive oil and sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic over medium heat until translucent, about 5 minutes. Set aside to cool slightly.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, parsley, basil, sautéed onion and garlic, eggs, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
  4. Transfer the meat mixture onto parchment paper and shape it into a rectangle about 1 inch thick.
  5. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over the meatloaf rectangle, leaving a border. Add the optional pepperoni or prosciutto on top.
  6. Carefully roll the meat mixture away from you using the parchment paper, forming a log shape and enclosing the filling. Place seam-side down on the baking sheet.
  7. Press the loaf gently to shape it and spoon additional marinara sauce over the top, allowing it to drip down the sides.
  8. Bake for about 60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). The exterior should be browned and the sauce bubbly.
  9. Let the meatloaf rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing.
  10. Slice into thick pieces and serve with garlic bread and a fresh salad.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 22gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender. Ensure to rest after baking for moist slices. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness.

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