There's nothing quite like the hearty comfort of a homemade Mozzarella Stuffed Meatloaf. This dish combines the savory goodness of classic meatloaf with a gooey, cheesy surprise at its center. Each bite is bursting with flavor, and the melted mozzarella adds a touch of indulgence to every slice.

The first time I made this recipe, I was looking for a way to elevate a traditional favorite for a family dinner. Little did I know it would become an instant hit! It’s the perfect meal for busy weeknights or when you’re hosting friends and want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Mozzarella Stuffed Meatloaf

Get ready to make a meatloaf like you’ve never had before. This Mozzarella Stuffed Meatloaf is guaranteed to become a household favorite.

First off, it’s packed with flavor. The seasoned ground beef is blended with breadcrumbs, garlic, and herbs, creating a savory base that pairs beautifully with the creamy mozzarella inside.

It’s also surprisingly easy to make. While it looks impressive when sliced open, the steps are simple enough for beginner cooks to follow without stress.

If you love versatile recipes, this one’s for you. You can customize it with different cheeses, add vegetables, or even experiment with the seasoning to suit your taste.

Finally, it’s a meal that satisfies everyone at the table. Kids love the cheesy surprise, while adults appreciate the rich, comforting flavors.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Mozzarella Stuffed Meatloaf lies in its simple yet high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to make it shine:

Ground Beef: The foundation of the meatloaf. Opt for an 80/20 blend to balance flavor and moisture without being too greasy.
Breadcrumbs: These help bind the meatloaf together and give it a tender texture. Regular or Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs work well here.
Eggs: Essential for holding everything together, eggs also add richness to the mixture.
Mozzarella Cheese: The star of the show! Use a block of mozzarella for a beautifully gooey center. Pre-shredded cheese won’t melt as smoothly.
Onion and Garlic: These aromatics add depth and savory notes. Finely dice the onion for even cooking.
Tomato Sauce or Ketchup: Adds a tangy, slightly sweet glaze that complements the savory meat perfectly.
Seasonings: A mix of dried oregano, parsley, salt, and pepper brings out the best in the other ingredients.

You’ll also need a loaf pan for shaping the meatloaf, although you can free-form it on a baking sheet if you prefer.

How To Make This Mozzarella Stuffed Meatloaf

Making this Mozzarella Stuffed Meatloaf is easier than you might think. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a show-stopping dinner on the table in no time.

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, diced onion, minced garlic, and seasonings. Use your hands to mix everything gently but thoroughly. Overmixing can make the meatloaf tough, so stop as soon as everything is combined.

Take half of the meat mixture and press it into the bottom of the prepared pan, forming a shallow well in the center. Place your mozzarella cheese block or slices in the middle, ensuring it’s fully enclosed by meat on all sides.

Cover the cheese with the remaining meat mixture, pressing firmly to seal the edges. Smooth the top for even cooking.

Spread a layer of tomato sauce or ketchup over the top of the meatloaf. This will caramelize as it bakes, creating a flavorful glaze.

Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches 160°F (71°C). Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing to allow the cheese to set slightly and prevent it from spilling out.

Storage Options

Got leftovers? This meatloaf stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or enjoying another day.

Refrigerate: Store slices in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Freeze: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheat: To keep the cheese gooey, reheat the meatloaf in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes. Avoid microwaving for too long, as it may dry out the meat.

Variations and Substitutions

The versatility of this recipe means you can tweak it to suit your preferences or what you have on hand.

Cheese Swap: Try swapping the mozzarella for provolone, cheddar, or even a mix of cheeses for a unique twist.
Protein Alternatives: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version.
Veggie Boost: Add finely grated carrots or zucchini to the meat mixture for extra moisture and hidden nutrients.
Spicy Kick: Mix in some red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a touch of heat.
Herb Upgrade: Fresh parsley or basil can replace dried herbs for a more vibrant flavor.

Feel free to experiment and make this recipe your own. It’s hard to go wrong when cheese and meatloaf are involved!

Whether you’re serving it with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad, this Mozzarella Stuffed Meatloaf is sure to be a hit. Enjoy!