Name: Stuffed Italian Meatloaf Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 1/2 lbs ground beef; 1/2 lb ground Italian sausage; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup bread crumbs; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 2 tbsp Italian seasoning; 1 tbsp parsley, chopped; 1/2 cup milk; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1 cup spinach, chopped (optional); 1/4 cup marinara sauce; 1/2 cup marinara sauce; 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

Jump to Recipe·5.1 from 22 reviews

There’s something downright irresistible about Stuffed Italian Meatloaf. The classic homestyle comfort of a hearty meatloaf meets the all-out indulgence of a gooey, cheesy filling and a robust tomato topping. Every slice reveals a swirl of melted mozzarella and vibrant spinach, making this dish just as much a feast for the eyes as it is for your taste buds. Whether you’re gathering the family for a Sunday supper or just craving something savory and satisfying, Stuffed Italian Meatloaf brings everyone to the table with its winning blend of tradition and surprise.

Stuffed Italian Meatloaf Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this dish is how a handful of everyday ingredients come together to create something truly extraordinary. Each element adds its own magic— from the blend of meats for succulence, to the Italian herbs lending those signature Mediterranean notes, and the gooey filling that transforms every bite into comfort food bliss.

Ground Beef (1 1/2 lbs): Choose 80/20 for juicy texture without excess grease.
Ground Italian Sausage (1/2 lb): Brings authentic flavor and just the right amount of richness.
Onion, finely chopped (1 small): Adds subtle sweetness and moisture.
Garlic, minced (2 cloves): Delivers that unmistakable Italian aroma every meatloaf needs.
Bread Crumbs (1 cup): Helps bind the loaf while soaking up the flavorful juices.
Eggs, large (2): Essential for holding everything together and making every slice firm but tender.
Parmesan Cheese, grated (1/2 cup): Adds salty punch and depth throughout the loaf.
Italian Seasoning (2 tbsp): A shortcut to a perfectly blended herbal backbone.
Parsley, chopped (1 tbsp): Freshness and color go a long way here.
Milk (1/2 cup): Keeps things moist, tender, and oh-so-comforting.
Salt and Pepper: Taste and season generously for balanced flavor.
Mozzarella Cheese, shredded (1 cup): The star of the filling, melts into a dreamy center.
Spinach, chopped (1 cup, optional): Sneak in some greens for color and a nutrient boost.
Marinara Sauce (1/4 cup + 1/2 cup): Use some inside the loaf for moisture, and the rest on top to glaze.
Parmesan Cheese, grated (1/4 cup, for topping): The golden, cheesy finish you need.

How to Make Stuffed Italian Meatloaf

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by setting your oven to 375°F. This ensures it reaches the perfect temperature for baking Stuffed Italian Meatloaf evenly, giving you that beautiful golden crust and piping hot, cheesy center every meatloaf lover dreams of.

Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf Base

In a large bowl, combine your ground beef and Italian sausage, then mix in the chopped onion, garlic, bread crumbs, eggs, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, parsley, milk, salt, and pepper. Roll up your sleeves and mix gently by hand or with a spoon—just until it’s all coming together. Don’t overmix or your meatloaf might turn out a little tough instead of tender.

Step 3: Shape and Stuff

Transfer the meat mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment for easy cleanup. Use your hands to press it into a rectangle, roughly 9 by 12 inches. Create a well along the center, then fill with mozzarella, spinach if you’re using, and a generous spoonful of marinara. The goal here is to create a surprise cheese layer that stays gooey when you slice.

Step 4: Seal the Loaf

Carefully pull the sides of your rectangle up and over the filling, pressing the edges together to fully enclose all that deliciousness in the center. Pinch to seal. Make sure there are no cracks so the cheese doesn’t escape as it bakes!

Step 5: Top and Bake

Spoon the rest of your marinara sauce over the top of the loaf, then finish with a liberal dusting of grated Parmesan. This forms a flavorful, caramelized crust as Stuffed Italian Meatloaf bakes. Pop it straight into the oven for 45 to 55 minutes, or until a thermometer registers 160°F in the center.

Step 6: Rest and Slice

Allow your masterpiece to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This gives the juices time to rediscover their place in the loaf, so every serving is perfectly moist and cohesive—no crumbling!

How to Serve Stuffed Italian Meatloaf

Garnishes

For a touch of extra flair, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or basil over the top, and serve with a drizzle of extra marinara. A light dusting of Parmesan just before plating adds color and a burst of flavor that pairs beautifully with the gooey cheese center.

Side Dishes

Stuffed Italian Meatloaf plays well with all sorts of Italian-inspired sides. Think garlic mashed potatoes, buttery polenta, or roasted veggies. For something a bit lighter, a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness, while toasted garlic bread is practically a requirement to sop up every drop of that marinara.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing Stuffed Italian Meatloaf into thick “steaks” and arrange them on a platter for a family-style Italian feast. For a fun twist, make individual mini loaves—perfect for portion control, meal prepping, or packing up leftovers for lunch the next day. Don’t forget to spoon extra warm sauce over each slice for mouthwatering effect!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Stuffed Italian Meatloaf keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen as it sits, making those next-day slices even more incredible on a sandwich or a quick reheat for lunch.

Freezing

If you want to have this crowd-pleaser ready at a moment’s notice, wrap the cooled meatloaf tightly in foil and freeze it for up to three months. It’s smart to slice it before freezing, so you can reheat only what you need without thawing the whole loaf.

Reheating

Warm leftover slices in a 325°F oven covered with foil until heated through, about 15 to 20 minutes. For a quick fix, microwave a slice on medium power, but add a splash of marinara or a damp paper towel to keep it moist and irresistible.

FAQs

Can I use a different kind of cheese for the filling?

Absolutely! While mozzarella melts beautifully and gives you a classic pull, you can experiment with provolone, fontina, or even a blend for your Stuffed Italian Meatloaf. Just stick to cheeses that melt well for the best texture.

Can I make Stuffed Italian Meatloaf without sausage?

Yes, you can prepare this recipe using all ground beef if you prefer. The Italian sausage does add extra flavor, but upping the Italian seasoning a bit or using ground turkey sausage can keep things interesting.

How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out?

Make sure to seal the meat mixture completely around the filling, and pinch the seams well. A quick chill in the fridge before baking can also help the meat set and reduce leaks for your Stuffed Italian Meatloaf.

What’s the best way to slice the meatloaf?

Let your Stuffed Italian Meatloaf rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. Use a sharp, serrated knife and cut with a gentle sawing motion—this helps keep the stuffed center intact and ensures neat slices.

Can I add vegetables to the filling?

Definitely! Mushrooms, roasted red peppers, chopped olives, or even finely diced sun-dried tomatoes are all fantastic additions inside your Stuffed Italian Meatloaf. Add them sautéed or fresh for extra layers of flavor.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so special about sharing a Stuffed Italian Meatloaf—each slice is packed with flavor, joy, and just a hint of Italian magic. Try it out for your next dinner and watch it become a new family favorite!