Why You’ll Love This Mozzarella Stuffed Meatloaf
If you think meatloaf is boring, this recipe is about to change your mind. This Mozzarella Stuffed Meatloaf is loaded with juicy ground beef, oozing melty mozzarella, and wrapped in an herb-seasoned crust topped with rich marinara and bubbly cheese.
Whether you’re craving something comforting, prepping meals for a busy week, or trying to impress at a dinner party without stress—this cheesy meatloaf checks all the boxes.
Why It’s a Must-Try:
- ✅ Quick & Easy for Busy Nights
- ✅ Family-Approved
- ✅ Customizable with Your Favorite Add-ins
- ✅ Freezer-Friendly
- ✅ Great for Meal Prep
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s break down what you need to create the best stuffed meatloaf ever:
🔸 Main Ingredients:
- Ground Beef (2 lbs) – Use 80/20 for the juiciest texture. Too lean, and the loaf dries out.
- Egg (1 large) – Helps bind everything together.
- Breadcrumbs (1 cup) – Italian-style is great, but plain works too.
- Mozzarella Cheese
- 1 cup shredded (for the center)
- ½ cup shredded (for the topping)
- Marinara Sauce (½ cup) – Adds moisture and flavor.
- Chopped Fresh Parsley (¼ cup) – Adds brightness.
🔸 Seasonings:
- Salt (1 tsp)
- Black Pepper (1 tsp)
- Garlic Powder (½ tsp)
- Onion Powder (½ tsp)
- Italian Seasoning (½ tsp)
How to Make Mozzarella Stuffed Meatloaf
🔥 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.
Step 2: Combine the Meat Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and parsley.
➡️ Pro Tip: Don’t overmix! It can make the loaf tough.
Step 3: Flatten and Fill
On the prepared sheet, press the meat mixture into a rectangle about ½ inch thick. Spread 1 cup of shredded mozzarella across the center, leaving about 1-inch around the edges.
Step 4: Roll It Up
Carefully roll the meat into a loaf, encasing the cheese inside. Press the edges and ends firmly to seal.
Step 5: Top It Off
Spoon ½ cup of marinara sauce over the top and sprinkle the remaining ½ cup mozzarella for that irresistible cheesy crust.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the internal temperature hits 160°F (71°C).
Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the cheese set and keeps it juicy.
Tips for the Perfect Cheesy Meatloaf
Want a meatloaf that’s restaurant-quality every time? Keep these expert tips in mind:
- Use a mix of meats: Blend ground beef with ground pork or veal for extra flavor.
- Freshly shred the cheese: Pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
- Add ketchup or Worcestershire to the meat mixture for depth.
- Rest after baking: It prevents a soggy bottom and messy slices.
Mozzarella Stuffed Meatloaf Variations
Feeling adventurous? Try these creative twists:
🔄 Stuffing Swaps:
- Swap mozzarella for smoked gouda, cheddar, or provolone.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the filling.
- Layer in sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for bold flavor.
🌶 Spice it Up:
- Mix in chili flakes, smoked paprika, or jalapeños for heat.
- Use a spicy arrabbiata sauce instead of marinara.
What to Serve with Mozzarella Stuffed Meatloaf
Complete your meal with these simple sides:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes
- Roasted Green Beans
- Caesar Salad
- Buttery Corn on the Cob
- Crusty Garlic Bread
🍷 Pair with: A medium-bodied red wine like Merlot or a sparkling water with lemon.
How to Make This Meatloaf Ahead of Time
Planning ahead? Great idea.
🧊 To Prep in Advance:
- Assemble the meatloaf and wrap it tightly in plastic.
- Store in the fridge up to 24 hours before baking.
🔁 To Bake Later:
- Let it sit at room temp for 20–30 minutes before putting it in the oven.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
This meatloaf makes fantastic leftovers!
🥶 Storing:
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze individual slices for up to 3 months.
🔥 Reheating:
- Oven: 350°F for 10–15 mins.
- Microwave: 60–90 seconds on medium power.
- Air fryer: 370°F for 5–6 minutes.
Mozzarella Stuffed Meatloaf Recipe Card
📝 Quick Overview
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Servings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15 mins | 50 mins | 1 hr 5 mins | 6 |
📋 Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 egg
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- ¼ cup chopped parsley
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella (inside)
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella (on top)
- ½ cup marinara sauce
🍴 Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking sheet or loaf pan.
- Mix ingredients: Combine ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, seasonings, and parsley in a large bowl.
- Form and fill: Shape into a rectangle, add mozzarella down the center.
- Roll it up: Roll and seal the edges to create a loaf.
- Top it: Add marinara and remaining cheese.
- Bake: Bake for 45–50 mins or until internal temp is 160°F.
- Rest and slice: Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Final Thoughts
This Mozzarella Stuffed Meatloaf isn’t just a recipe—it’s the kind of meal that turns ordinary evenings into cozy, feel-good memories. With cheesy goodness in every bite and a simple process, it’s perfect for beginners and experienced cooks alike.
Whether you’re feeding picky kids or impressing guests, this is one of the best quick and easy ground beef recipes to have on rotation.
