Italian Style Cheesy Meatloaf

Introduction:

Italian Style Cheesy Meatloaf is a delightful twist on the traditional meatloaf, packed with rich flavors of Italian herbs, gooey melted mozzarella, and a savory tomato sauce that will have everyone at the dinner table asking for seconds.

This recipe combines the hearty, comforting texture of a classic meatloaf with the irresistible taste of lasagna, making it a perfect dish for those who love Italian cuisine but crave the simplicity of a one-dish meal.

Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight family dinner or preparing something special for a gathering, this meatloaf is sure to impress.

Italian Style Cheesy Meatloaf: A Flavor-Packed Family Favorite

Ingredients:

1 1/2 pounds ground beef (or a combination of beef and pork)

1/2 cup Italian breadcrumbs

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 small onion, finely diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 cup milk

2 large eggs

1 tablespoon Italian seasoning

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 cup marinara sauce (plus extra for topping)

1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

Preheat the Oven:

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan with cooking spray or a little olive oil to prevent the meatloaf from sticking.

Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, Italian breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, diced onion, minced garlic, milk, eggs, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.

Use your hands or a wooden spoon to mix everything together until well combined, but be careful not to overwork the mixture, as this can make the meatloaf tough.

Form the Meatloaf:

Transfer half of the meat mixture to the prepared loaf pan, pressing it down evenly to form the base. Make a shallow indentation down the center of the meatloaf, creating a “trough” for the cheese.

Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese into the indentation. Cover the cheese with the remaining meat mixture, pressing it down and shaping the top so the cheese is fully enclosed within the meatloaf.

Top with Marinara Sauce:

Spread the 1/2 cup of marinara sauce evenly over the top of the meatloaf. This adds a rich, tomatoey flavor and helps keep the meatloaf moist as it bakes.

Bake the Meatloaf:

Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

In the last 10 minutes of baking, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese over the top of the meatloaf. Continue baking until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Rest and Serve:

Once the meatloaf is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest in the pan for about 10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meatloaf, making it easier to slice.

Carefully transfer the meatloaf to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor.

Storage and Reheating:

Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in the microwave or in a covered dish in the oven until warmed through.

Conclusion:

Italian Style Cheesy Meatloaf is a satisfying, flavor-packed dish that brings together the best of comfort food and Italian cuisine.

The combination of savory ground meat, rich marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese makes this meatloaf an instant family favorite.

Plus, it’s easy to prepare and versatile enough to serve with a variety of sides, from pasta and garlic bread to roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.

This recipe is perfect for those nights when you want to enjoy a hearty, home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

The cheese-stuffed center and the saucy, cheesy topping make every bite of this meatloaf a delicious experience.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just your family, this dish is sure to be a hit. Enjoy!

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