Cheesy mozzarella stuffed meatloaf is a mouthwatering twist on the classic comfort food. This recipe takes traditional meatloaf and elevates it with a gooey, melted mozzarella cheese center that adds a burst of flavor and texture to every bite.
To make cheesy mozzarella stuffed meatloaf, start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine 1 1/2 lbs of ground beef with 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup of chopped parsley, 1/4 cup of chopped onion, 1/4 cup of milk, 1 egg, 2 teaspoons of Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.
Divide the meat mixture in half and press half of it into the bottom of the prepared baking sheet to form a rectangle. Place 4 oz of mozzarella cheese sticks in the center of the meat mixture, leaving a border around the edges. Press the remaining meat mixture over the cheese sticks, sealing the edges to enclose the cheese.
Ingredients
Meatloaf:
1 ½ pounds 80%-90% lean ground beef , or ground turkey or 1 pound ground pork and 1 pound ground beef
2 Tablespoons ketchup
½ cup panko breadcrumbs
¼ cup milk , or beef broth
1 large egg , whisked
2 Tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon Kosher salt
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper , plus more for topping (optional)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
4-8 ounces mozzarella cheese , sliced
Sauce
⅔ cup ketchup or BBQ sauce , you could mix half and half
2-3 Tablespoons light brown sugar
Fresh parsley , for serving.
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet or 9×5-inch loaf pan with foil. Lightly spray with nonstick spray.
Remove half the meat from the bowl and shape on the prepared pan (you can also press into a loaf pan). Place the mozzarella slices down the center, leaving about 1/2 inch around the sides. Place the remaining meat on the top and shape the loaf, making sure to seal the edges.
Sauce
In a small bowl, stir together the ketchup and/or BBQ sauce and brown sugar until smooth. Pour over the top of the meatloaf. Add pepper on top, if desired.
Bake 45 minutes, or until a meat thermometer reaches 160°F. Let rest 5 minutes. Slice and sprinkle with parsley to serve.