It’s 6pm and you need a dinner that everyone loves. If you’re craving something creamy and comforting, this is for you. This Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf is a total game changer. It’s not your basic dry meatloaf. This one has a molten cheese core.
Why You’ll Make This Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Again
This recipe is the ultimate comfort food for chilly Winter nights. It is perfect for a cozy family-friendly dinner. Your kids will actually ask for seconds. The blend of beef and pork stays incredibly juicy. You get a rich Italian flavor in every single bite. It is ready for the oven in just 25 minutes.
How This Comes Together
Making this loaf is much easier than it looks. You just roll the meat like a jelly roll. Using plastic wrap helps you keep everything tight. This trick ensures the cheese stays inside the meat. Even beginners can master this simple technique quickly.
What You’ll Need
Most of these items are pantry staples you already have. The mix of beef and pork is essential for moisture.
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
- 1 lb ground pork
- 1 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup yellow onion, finely minced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cracked black pepper
- 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded or sliced
- 1.5 cups marinara sauce, divided
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-By-Step Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine beef, pork, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, Parmesan, onion, garlic, and seasonings.
- Mix by hand until just combined, avoiding overworking the meat.
- Spread the meat mixture into an even 10×12 inch rectangle on plastic wrap.
- Spread 1/2 cup of marinara over the meat, leaving a 1-inch border.
- Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce.
- Roll the meat into a log using the plastic wrap to help lift it.
- Pinch the ends and the seam tightly to seal the cheese inside.
- Transfer the loaf to the baking dish seam-side down and smooth any cracks.
- Bake for 45 minutes in the preheated oven.
- Spread the remaining 1 cup of marinara sauce over the top and sides.
- Bake for another 20-25 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and garnish with parsley.
How To Serve It
Slice it thick to show off that cheese center. It looks amazing on a casual hosting platter. Serve it alongside creamy mashed potatoes or garlic bread. A simple green salad balances the rich marinara sauce. Your guests will think you spent hours in the kitchen.
Leftovers & Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container. It stays fresh in the fridge for three days. You can also freeze individual slices for easy lunches later. Reheat them in the oven to keep the texture right. The cheese will get nice and melty again.
Make It Even Better (Pro Tips)
- Do not overmix the meat or it becomes tough.
- Pinch the ends tightly so the cheese stays inside.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for 160°F.
- Let it rest for 15 minutes before you slice it.
- Try high-quality marinara for the best flavor possible.
- Line your pan with parchment for a 10-second cleanup.
- Add extra cheese on top during the last 5 minutes.
Easy Ways To Change It Up
- Use ground turkey for a lighter version of this meal.
- Add red pepper flakes for a spicy Italian kick.
- Swap mozzarella for provolone for a sharper flavor.
- Mix in chopped spinach for a boost of greens.
Quick Questions
Can I use just beef for this Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf?
Yes, but the pork adds extra moisture. Using both creates a much softer texture. If you use only beef, choose 80/20 fat content.
Why did my cheese leak out?
You likely didn’t seal the meat seams enough. Make sure to pinch the ends very tightly. Smoothing the surface before baking also helps.
I really hope you give this one a try soon. It is the kind of meal that makes home feel cozy. Let me know how your family likes it.
— Ethan
Ultimate Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf with Marinara
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, beaten eggs, milk, grated Parmesan, minced onion, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix by hand until just combined, avoiding overworking the meat.
- Place a large sheet of plastic wrap or wax paper on your counter. Spread the meat mixture into an even rectangle, approximately 10x12 inches.
- Spread 1/2 cup of the marinara sauce over the surface of the meat, leaving a 1-inch border at the edges. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce.
- Starting from the short end, carefully roll the meat into a log using the plastic wrap to help lift and guide it. Pinch the ends and the seam tightly to seal the cheese and sauce inside.
- Transfer the loaf to the prepared baking dish or sheet, seam-side down. Smooth out any cracks in the surface.
- Bake for 45 minutes in the preheated oven.
- Remove from the oven and spread the remaining 1 cup of marinara sauce over the top and sides of the meatloaf. Return to the oven for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Optional: Sprinkle extra mozzarella on top during the last 5 minutes of baking if a cheesy crust is desired.
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing to ensure the cheese core sets and the juices redistribute. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
