Stuffed Meatloaf recipes
This recipe creates two individual stuffed meatloaves, combining seasoned ground beef with a gooey fresh mozzarella core. Baked to perfection and topped with a simple tomato sauce, it's a comforting and satisfying main course. Ideal for a hearty lunch or dinner, this dish offers a delicious twist on a classic.
Equipment
- 1 Mixing Bowl For combining meatloaf ingredients
- 1 Baking Dish Small baking dish or loaf pan suitable for two individual meatloaves
- 1 Chef's knife For finely chopping onion
- 1 Cutting Board For preparing ingredients
- 1 Measuring spoons/cups For accurate ingredient measurements
Ingredients
Main
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- salt
- freshly ground pepper
- 1/2 pound ground beef
- 4 small balls fresh mozzarella
- 1 8-ounce can tomato sauce
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a small baking dish or loaf pan.
- In a medium bowl, combine the large egg, finely chopped onion, seasoned breadcrumbs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and freshly ground pepper.
- Add the 1/2 pound ground beef to the bowl. Gently mix with your hands until all ingredients are just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
- Divide the meat mixture into two equal portions. For each portion, flatten it into an oblong shape, about 1/2 inch thick.
- Place two small balls of fresh mozzarella in the center of each flattened meat portion.
- Carefully fold the meat mixture around the mozzarella, sealing the edges completely to fully enclose the cheese and form two individual meatloaves.
- Transfer the stuffed meatloaves to the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for 25 minutes, or until the meatloaf begins to brown.
- Remove the dish from the oven and pour the entire can of tomato sauce over both meatloaves.
- Return to the oven and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the mozzarella is melted and bubbly. Let rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
For a truly tender meatloaf, avoid overmixing the ground beef mixture; mix just until combined. This prevents a tough, dense texture. Ensure the mozzarella balls are completely encased within the meat to prevent them from leaking out during baking, which can dry out the cheese and make a mess. For enhanced flavor, consider sautéing the finely chopped onion before adding it to the mixture. You can also add a pinch of dried Italian herbs or a dash of smoked paprika for an extra layer of complexity. Serve with a rustic side like creamy mashed potatoes or roasted root vegetables.