Description
This delicious Stuffed Italian Meatloaf is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines ground beef and Italian sausage with a cheesy, spinach-filled center. Topped with marinara sauce and Parmesan, it’s a comforting meal perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Meatloaf:
- 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
Filling:
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup spinach, chopped (optional)
- 1/4 cup marinara sauce
Topping:
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking the meatloaf evenly.
- Prepare the meat mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, Italian sausage, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, bread crumbs, eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and chopped parsley. Add milk, salt, and pepper, then mix everything until fully and evenly combined.
- Form the loaf: On a baking sheet, shape the meat mixture into a rectangular loaf approximately 9 by 12 inches, creating a well in the center for the filling.
- Add the filling: Fill the well in the meatloaf with shredded mozzarella cheese, chopped spinach if using, and a spoonful of marinara sauce, distributing it evenly.
- Seal the meatloaf: Carefully fold the meat around the filling and seal the edges well to encase the filling completely, forming a neat loaf.
- Apply topping: Spread the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the top of the meatloaf and sprinkle with the grated Parmesan cheese to add flavor and moisture during baking.
- Bake: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F indicating it’s fully cooked.
- Rest before slicing: Remove from oven and let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes; this allows juices to redistribute, preventing dryness when sliced.
- Serve: Slice the meatloaf and serve warm, with extra marinara sauce on the side if desired for added moisture and flavor.
Notes
- Variations: Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or olives to the filling for extra flavor and texture.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Wrap the meatloaf tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw thoroughly before reheating.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
