Description
This Mozzarella Stuffed Meatloaf is a comforting and flavorful dish combining seasoned ground beef with a gooey mozzarella cheese center. Perfect for family dinners, it features a blend of fresh vegetables and herbs, baked to juicy perfection with a tangy ketchup glaze.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatloaf Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 stalk celery, finely chopped
- 1/2 small green pepper, finely chopped
- 1 large egg
- 4 tablespoons breadcrumbs
- 1 handful fresh parsley, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon ground paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Filling and Sauce
- 4 oz mozzarella cheese, diced
- 1/2 cup ketchup or your favorite meatloaf sauce
Instructions
- Prep: Line a rimmed sheet pan with aluminum foil and lightly grease it for easier cleanup. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature while you prepare the meatloaf.
- Make the Meatloaf Mix: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, finely chopped onion, celery, green pepper, egg, breadcrumbs, parsley, mustard, Italian seasoning, paprika, and salt. Mix thoroughly using a hand mixer with a dough hook attachment or by hand until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Shape and Fill: Transfer the meat mixture onto the prepared pan and shape it into a loaf. Create a deep crease along the center of the loaf and fill it with the diced mozzarella cheese. Carefully pinch the meat mixture over the cheese to seal the filling inside the loaf.
- Bake in Layers: Spread one-third of the ketchup or meatloaf sauce evenly over the loaf. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Afterward, carefully spread another one-third of the sauce on top and continue baking for an additional 20 to 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C), ensuring the meatloaf is fully cooked.
- Finish and Rest: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and immediately apply the remaining sauce on top. Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes; this resting period helps retain juices and makes slicing easier. Slice into 8 portions and serve warm.
Notes
- Using aluminum foil on the baking sheet helps with easy cleanup but is optional.
- Ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F for safe consumption of ground beef.
- You can substitute the mozzarella with other cheeses like cheddar for variation.
- Resting the meatloaf after baking helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meatloaf moist.
- Breadcrumbs can be substituted with gluten-free breadcrumbs to accommodate gluten-free diets.
