Sophia Langley
Imagine slicing into a juicy, perfectly seasoned meatloaf only to be greeted by a molten river of gooey mozzarella cheese. This stuffed meatloaf is comfort food taken to an entirely new level, combining classic savory flavors with an irresistible cheesy twist. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or simply craving a hearty meal, this dish promises to impress.
The rich tomato glaze on top adds a tangy sweetness that balances the savory meat, while the melted mozzarella inside keeps every bite moist and indulgent. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for cozy nights or impressing guests with minimal effort.
What Kind of Mozzarella Should I Use?
For the best melty goodness, go with whole milk mozzarella. Fresh mozzarella will give you that stringy, pizza-like pull, while low-moisture mozzarella holds up better and won’t make your meatloaf watery. If you want a bolder flavor, try mixing mozzarella with a little sharp cheddar.
Ingredients for the Stuffed Meatloaf with Mozzarella
- Ground Beef – The base of the meatloaf, providing rich and hearty flavor.
- Breadcrumbs – Help bind the meat mixture and keep it tender.
- Eggs – Essential for holding everything together.
- Onion & Garlic – Add depth and aroma to the meatloaf.
- Milk – Keeps the loaf moist and soft.
- Italian Seasoning – Infuses the meat with classic savory notes.
- Salt & Pepper – Simple seasonings that enhance all the flavors.
- Mozzarella Cheese – The star of the show, giving that gooey, cheesy center.
- Tomato Glaze (Ketchup or Tomato Sauce + Brown Sugar) – Adds a sweet and tangy finish.
How To Make the Stuffed Meatloaf with Mozzarella
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Mixture
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands until all ingredients are incorporated but avoid overmixing, which can make the meatloaf dense.
Step 2: Shape and Fill
On a sheet of parchment paper, shape half of the meat mixture into a loaf base. Make a shallow well in the center and fill it generously with mozzarella cheese. Place the remaining meat mixture on top and seal the edges tightly to keep the cheese inside.
Step 3: Add the Glaze
Spread a thick layer of tomato glaze (ketchup mixed with a bit of brown sugar) over the top of the meatloaf. This will caramelize beautifully in the oven and add a sweet-savory punch.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the loaf to a greased baking dish and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 50–60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing to keep the juices locked in. Slice thickly, and get ready for that mouthwatering cheesy pull with every cut.
Serving and Storing the Stuffed Meatloaf with Mozzarella
This meatloaf is best enjoyed hot, right out of the oven when the cheese is still molten and gooey. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and serve thick slices with your favorite sides. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the oven to keep the cheese melty and the meat moist.
For freezing, wrap slices tightly in foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Reheat from frozen at 350°F until warmed through.
What to Serve With Stuffed Meatloaf with Mozzarella?
1. Creamy Mashed Potatoes
The ultimate comfort side, perfect for soaking up the tomato glaze.
2. Roasted Parmesan Potatoes
Crispy, cheesy, and a great contrast to the soft meatloaf texture.
3. Steamed Green Beans with Garlic Butter
A fresh and light option that balances the richness.
4. Classic Caesar Salad
Crisp, tangy, and refreshing alongside the hearty meat.
5. Honey Butter Sweet Potato Cornbread
Adds a sweet, buttery bite that complements the savory loaf.
6. Creamed Potatoes
A creamy, old-fashioned side dish that pairs perfectly with cheesy meatloaf.
7. Roasted Broccoli with Lemon Zest
Bright and citrusy, this adds a lovely contrast to the cheesy goodness.
8. Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls
Fluffy and perfect for mopping up extra sauce.
Want More Comfort Food Ideas?
If you love this Stuffed Meatloaf with Mozzarella, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites:
• Delicious Savory Meatloaf for a traditional, homestyle flavor.
• Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole if you love a hearty, cheesy twist.
• Effortless Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf for that melty, beef-and-cheese goodness.
• Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves when you’re craving a lighter but equally satisfying option.
• Creamed Potatoes as the perfect creamy side dish.
Save This Stuffed Meatloaf with Mozzarella
Hit that Save button if you’re planning to whip this up for your next family dinner – trust me, you’ll want this recipe handy when that cheesy meatloaf craving hits.
Tried this recipe? I’d love to hear how it turned out! Did you stick with mozzarella, or did you experiment with other cheeses like provolone or cheddar? Share your thoughts and any tweaks in the comments below.
📌 Pin this recipe to your ‘Comfort Food Favorites’ board on Pinterest – because when the craving strikes, you’ll thank yourself for having it saved!
Want more drool-worthy recipes? Follow TasteBursts Recipes on Pinterest for endless inspiration and discover your next comfort food obsession!
Stuffed Meatloaf with Mozzarella
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Baking dish
- Oven
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 0.5 cup milk
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 ounces mozzarella cheese (whole milk, shredded or cubed)
- 0.5 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, onion, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until combined.
- Shape half of the mixture into a loaf base on parchment paper. Make a shallow well and fill with mozzarella cheese. Top with remaining meat mixture and seal edges.
- Stir ketchup and brown sugar together, then spread over the top of the meatloaf.
- Transfer to a greased baking dish and bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy the gooey cheesy center.