Cheesy Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatloaf

If you’re craving something creamy and comforting, look no further. This mozzarella-stuffed meatloaf is a total game-changer for your dinner routine. It takes a classic recipe and adds a molten cheese surprise.

This is one of those recipes you’ll make on repeat. It is simple, reliable, and incredibly satisfying for the whole family. You can have this on the table with minimal stress tonight.

Why You’ll Make This Again

This is the perfect winter comfort food for a cold night. It is hearty, rich, and feels like a warm hug. The prep is fast, taking only about 20 minutes of your time.

Your family will love the gooey cheese center in every slice. It stays moist and flavorful thanks to the milk and breadcrumbs. It is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults.

How This Comes Together

The process is beginner-friendly and fast to put together. You simply mix the meat, stuff it with cheese, and bake. The two-stage glazing process ensures a thick, delicious topping. You don’t need any fancy equipment to make this work.

What You’ll Need

These are simple pantry staples you likely already have at home.

• 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 lean)
• 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1/2 cup yellow onion, finely minced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 8 ounces low-moisture mozzarella cheese, cut into a 1-inch thick block
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard

Step-By-Step Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix by hand until ingredients are evenly distributed, avoiding overworking the meat.
4. Place half of the meat mixture into a 9×5 inch loaf pan, forming a well in the center.
5. Place the mozzarella cheese block into the well.
6. Top with the remaining meat mixture, pinching the edges to seal the cheese completely inside.
7. In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard to create the glaze.
8. Spread half of the glaze over the top of the meatloaf.
9. Bake for 45 minutes in the preheated oven.
10. Spread the remaining glaze over the meatloaf and continue baking for 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
11. Remove from oven and allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing to ensure the cheese sets.

How To Serve It

This mozzarella-stuffed meatloaf makes a fantastic family dinner on a Sunday. Serve thick slices alongside creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the glaze. A side of roasted green beans adds a nice crunch. It also pairs perfectly with a simple side salad for balance.

Leftovers & Storage

If you have leftovers, they store very well in the fridge. Place slices in an airtight container for up to three days. It reheats beautifully in the microwave or a low oven. You can even freeze individual slices for quick future lunches. Just wrap them tightly in foil before freezing for best results.

Make It Even Better (Pro Tips)

• Don’t skip the resting time or the cheese will run out.
• Avoid over-mixing the meat to keep the texture light and tender.
• Use a block of cheese rather than shredded for the best melt.
• Seal the edges tightly to prevent the mozzarella from leaking out.
• Make this for a cozy winter gathering to impress your guests easily.
• Use 80/20 ground beef for the best flavor and moisture level.
• Line your pan with parchment for even faster cleanup after dinner.

Easy Ways To Change It Up

• Swap the mozzarella for sharp cheddar for a bolder cheese flavor.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze for heat.
• Use ground turkey for a slightly lighter version of this meal.
• Add chopped parsley in the spring for a fresher herb taste.

Quick Questions

Can I use shredded cheese instead?

A solid block of cheese works best for this recipe. It ensures maximum cheesiness and stays contained inside the meat. Shredded cheese may melt too quickly and leak out.

How do I know when it is done?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 160°F (71°C) in the center of the meat. This ensures it is safe and perfectly cooked.

I hope you love this cheesy twist on a classic meatloaf. It is the perfect way to bring everyone to the table. Enjoy every bite!

— Ethan

Cheesy Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatloaf

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 20 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Calories: 480

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

  

• 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 lean)
• 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1 large egg , lightly beaten
• 1/2 cup yellow onion, finely minced
• 2 cloves garlic , minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon sal t
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 8 ounces low -moisture mozzarella cheese, cut into a 1-inch thick block
• 1/2 cup ketchu p
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix by hand until ingredients are evenly distributed, avoiding overworking the meat.
3. Place half of the meat mixture into a 9x5 inch loaf pan, forming a well in the center.
4. Place the mozzarella cheese block into the well.
5. Top with the remaining meat mixture, pinching the edges to seal the cheese completely inside.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard to create the glaze.
7. Spread half of the glaze over the top of the meatloaf.
8. Bake for 45 minutes in the preheated oven.
9. Spread the remaining glaze over the meatloaf and continue baking for 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
10. Remove from oven and allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing to ensure the cheese sets.