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Ultimate Italian Cheese-Stuffed Meatloaf with Marinara & Mozzarella
This Italian-style cheese-stuffed meatloaf is everything you love about classic comfort food—with a bold, cheesy, Mediterranean-inspired twist. Juicy seasoned ground beef, soaked breadcrumbs for tenderness, aromatic herbs, rich marinara, and layers of melted mozzarella come together to create a show-stopping main dish that feels like a cross between meatloaf and lasagna.
Perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or make-ahead meals, this meatloaf is incredibly moist, deeply flavorful, and guaranteed to impress. Whether served with pasta, potatoes, or crusty garlic bread, it’s a hearty recipe you’ll come back to again and again.
Why This Italian Meatloaf Is a Must-Try
🧀 Cheese-filled and ultra-juicy
🍅 Rich Italian flavors in every bite
🍽️ Perfect for weeknights or Sunday dinner
❄️ Great for leftovers and meal prep
👨👩👧👦 Family-friendly and crowd-pleasing
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf
2 lbs ground beef (80/20 recommended for juiciness)
1 cup Italian breadcrumbs
½ cup milk
2 large eggs
1 medium onion, finely diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1½ teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
¾ cup marinara sauce (plus more for topping)
Optional Stuffed Center
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup marinara sauce
For the Topping
½ cup marinara sauce
½ cup shredded mozzarella
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan
Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
Step-by-Step Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Breadcrumb Mixture
In a medium bowl, combine the Italian breadcrumbs and milk. Let the mixture soak for 5 minutes.
This step is essential—it creates a panade that keeps the meatloaf incredibly moist and tender.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
