BEST STUFFED ITALIAN MEATLOAF

Imagine slicing into a hearty, savory loaf, only to reveal a molten core of cheese, flavorful vegetables, and fragrant herbs – that’s the magic of Stuffed Italian Meatloaf. This isn’t your grandma’s plain meatloaf; it’s a flavor explosion that will have everyone begging for seconds, and I promise, it’s easier to make than you think!

Let’s Gather Our Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend is great)
• 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
• 1 cup bread crumbs (Italian seasoned)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup chopped fresh parsley
• ¼ cup milk
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Stuffing:

• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup chopped spinach, squeezed dry
• ¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained and chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce:

• 1 (24 ounce) jar marinara sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon dried basil

Step-by-Step Instructions: Let’s Get Cooking!

Prepping the Meatloaf Mixture:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef and Italian sausage. Use your hands (or a sturdy spoon) to break up the meat and mix it together.
3. Add the bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, milk, eggs, chopped onion, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to the meat mixture.
4. Gently mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough meatloaf.

Making the Delicious Stuffing:

1. In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, chopped spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using).
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well until everything is evenly distributed.

Assembling the Stuffed Masterpiece:

1. Place half of the meatloaf mixture into the prepared loaf pan. Press it down evenly to create a well in the center for the stuffing.
2. Carefully spoon the ricotta cheese mixture into the well, spreading it evenly.
3. Top with the remaining meatloaf mixture, gently pressing it down to seal in the stuffing. Make sure the stuffing is completely covered.

Baking to Perfection:

1. In a small saucepan, prepare the sauce. Heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
2. Pour in the marinara sauce, oregano, and basil. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Pour half of the marinara sauce over the meatloaf, reserving the rest for later.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 60-75 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Use a meat thermometer to be sure!
5. Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This helps the juices redistribute and makes it easier to slice.
6. Serve with the remaining marinara sauce and your favorite sides.

Troubleshooting and Tips for a Perfect Meatloaf

Sometimes things don’t go exactly as planned, right? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. Here are a few common meatloaf mishaps and how to avoid them:

• Dry Meatloaf: This is usually caused by overcooking or not enough fat in the meat. Use an 80/20 ground beef blend for optimal moisture. Also, don’t overmix the meat, as this can make it tough. Using a meat thermometer is key to preventing overcooking!
• Meatloaf Falls Apart: This can happen if there aren’t enough binding ingredients. Make sure you use enough bread crumbs and eggs. Also, letting the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes after baking helps it hold its shape.
• Stuffing Leaks Out: Ensure the stuffing is completely sealed inside the meatloaf. Press the top layer of meat firmly against the bottom layer to create a good seal.

Variations and Add-ins: Make it Your Own!

The beauty of Stuffed Italian Meatloaf is that you can easily customize it to your liking. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Cheese Variations: Swap out the mozzarella for provolone, fontina, or even a little gorgonzola for a stronger flavor.
• Vegetable Medley: Add chopped mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini to the meatloaf mixture for extra nutrients and flavor.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meatloaf mixture for a little heat.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with different fresh herbs, such as rosemary, thyme, or sage.
• Bread Crumb Alternatives: Use panko bread crumbs for a crispier texture.

Serving Suggestions: Complete the Meal

Stuffed Italian Meatloaf is a hearty and satisfying meal on its own, but it’s even better with the right sides. Consider serving it with:

• Pasta: A simple side of spaghetti or penne with marinara sauce is a classic pairing.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus are healthy and delicious options.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes or garlic mashed potatoes are always a crowd-pleaser.
• Garlic Bread: Crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
• Salad: A fresh green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a nice contrast to the richness of the meatloaf.

Speaking of pasta, if you’re in the mood for something equally comforting, you might enjoy Spinach Mushroom Lasagna. And if you’re looking for more ways to use ground beef, be sure to check out my recipe for Baked Ground Beef Tacos – they’re always a hit! For a simple and flavorful weeknight meal, try Salisbury Steak, it’s a classic for a reason! Another great Italian-inspired dish is Eggplant Parmesan, it’s sure to please. Or, for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner, try making Cheesy Meatball Subs.

Storage and Reheating: Enjoying Leftovers

Leftover Stuffed Italian Meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can microwave it in individual slices or reheat the entire loaf in the oven. If reheating in the oven, cover it with foil to prevent it from drying out. Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

Why This Recipe is a Winner

This Stuffed Italian Meatloaf recipe is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. The combination of savory meat, creamy cheese, and flavorful vegetables creates a symphony of tastes and textures that will tantalize your taste buds. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, a special occasion, or even a potluck. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover ingredients and customize it to your liking. So, go ahead and give this recipe a try. I promise you won’t be disappointed. Happy cooking!