Recipe for Cheese-Stuffed Meatloaf

The Ultimate Comfort Food: Cheese-Stuffed Meatloaf

Meatloaf is a quintessential comfort food, beloved for its hearty, satisfying nature and its versatility in flavor combinations.

This dish has been a staple in home kitchens for generations, offering a warm and filling meal that brings families together around the dinner table.

However, when you want to take your meatloaf to the next level, adding a generous layer of gooey, melted cheese inside transforms it from a simple classic into something truly indulgent.

Cheese-stuffed meatloaf combines the rich, savory flavors of seasoned ground meat with the irresistible creaminess of melted cheese, creating a dish that’s both familiar and exciting.

In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of making this delicious cheese-stuffed meatloaf, ensuring that you can bring this ultimate comfort food to your own table.

Recipe for Cheese-Stuffed Meatloaf

Ingredients:

2 pounds ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)

1 cup breadcrumbs

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 cup milk

1 small onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 large eggs

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

Salt and pepper to taste

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or your preferred cheese)

1/2 cup ketchup or marinara sauce (optional, for topping)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

Prepare the Meat Mixture:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet or a loaf pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, milk, chopped onion, minced garlic, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper.

Mix everything together until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat mixture as this can make the meatloaf tough.

Shape the Meatloaf:

On a clean surface or directly on the prepared baking sheet, shape half of the meat mixture into a flat rectangle, approximately 1 inch thick.

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the meat rectangle, leaving a small border around the edges to prevent the cheese from leaking out during cooking.

Carefully place the remaining meat mixture on top of the cheese layer. Press the edges together to seal in the cheese, then shape the meatloaf into a loaf form.

Bake the Meatloaf:

If using ketchup or marinara sauce, spread it over the top of the meatloaf for added flavor and moisture.

Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 60-75 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C) and the cheese inside is melted and bubbly.

For a crispier top, you can broil the meatloaf for the last 5 minutes of baking.

Rest and Serve:

Once fully cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meatloaf, making it more tender.

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor.

Slice the meatloaf and serve it hot, with sides like mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Conclusion

Cheese-stuffed meatloaf is the ultimate comfort food, combining the classic, hearty flavors of traditional meatloaf with the added indulgence of melted cheese.

This dish offers a satisfying, rich flavor profile that’s sure to be a hit with everyone at the dinner table.

Whether you’re looking for a new way to enjoy a family favorite or want to impress guests with a comforting yet elevated meal, this cheese-stuffed meatloaf is the perfect choice.

The next time you’re in the mood for something warm, filling, and utterly delicious, give this recipe a try and experience the joy of homemade comfort food at its finest.