There's something undeniably comforting about a homemade meatloaf, but when you add a gooey, cheesy surprise in the center? It becomes a dish to remember. This Mozzarella Stuffed Meatloaf combines savory ground beef, a medley of flavorful seasonings, and a molten core of melted mozzarella cheese that takes this classic comfort food to the next level.

I first discovered the joy of stuffing cheese into meatloaf during a holiday potluck, where my traditional recipe needed a little extra pizazz. Now, it’s a staple in our home, perfect for Sunday dinners or impressing guests without too much effort. Let me show you how easy and delicious it is to make!

Why You'll Love This Mozzarella Stuffed Meatloaf

Get ready to elevate your meatloaf game with this irresistible recipe! It's a crowd-pleaser for so many reasons.

First off, the melted mozzarella center is a game-changer. Every slice reveals gooey, stretchy cheese that pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of the beef. It’s not just meatloaf – it’s a culinary surprise in every bite!

This recipe is also easy to prepare. With a few simple steps, you can create a show-stopping dish that looks like it took hours to make. Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to your family’s tastes or dietary needs.

And let’s not forget how kid-friendly it is. If you’ve got picky eaters at home, the cheesy middle makes it an instant hit. Pair it with mashed potatoes or roasted veggies, and you’ve got a complete meal that everyone will devour.

Finally, this meatloaf is perfect for meal prep. It reheats beautifully, making it a great option for lunches or dinners throughout the week. Ready to get started? Let’s dive in!

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Mozzarella Stuffed Meatloaf lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need and why each one is essential:

Ground beef: Use an 80/20 blend for the best balance of flavor and moisture. Leaner options can be used, but the meatloaf might be slightly drier.
Breadcrumbs: These provide structure to the meatloaf while keeping it tender. Regular breadcrumbs work great, but panko breadcrumbs will give a slightly lighter texture.
Eggs: Act as a binder to hold everything together.
Milk: Keeps the meatloaf moist and tender. Whole milk is ideal, but any variety will do.
Onion and garlic: Finely chopped onion and minced garlic bring depth and aromatic flavor to the dish.
Mozzarella cheese: The star of the show! Use a block of mozzarella for the best melting results. Pre-shredded mozzarella works in a pinch but may not melt as smoothly.
Ketchup and Worcestershire sauce: For the perfect tangy, savory topping. You’ll brush it on in the last stages of baking for a glossy, caramelized finish.

Equipment

A loaf pan or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper is essential for shaping and baking.
A mixing bowl for combining ingredients easily.
Aluminum foil to cover the meatloaf while baking to prevent over-browning.

How To Make This Mozzarella Stuffed Meatloaf

Making this cheese-filled delight is simpler than you might think. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Mix the Meatloaf Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, onion, garlic, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Mix gently with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined – overmixing can make the meatloaf tough.
Assemble the Meatloaf
Transfer half of the meat mixture into your prepared pan or shape it into a loaf on your baking sheet. Press down gently to create a well in the center. Place the mozzarella cheese in the middle, either as a log-shaped piece or shredded cheese, and cover with the remaining meat mixture. Make sure to seal the edges well to prevent cheese from leaking out during baking.
Bake It to Perfection
Cover the meatloaf with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes. Then, remove the foil, brush the top with a mixture of ketchup and Worcestershire sauce, and bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is caramelized and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Rest and Serve
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This step ensures the cheese stays intact and doesn’t ooze out too quickly. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy!

Storage Options

This meatloaf stores beautifully, making it perfect for leftovers or meal prep.

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 3 months.
Reheat: For best results, reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave on medium power to avoid drying out the cheese.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully versatile! Here are a few ways to switch it up:

Change the cheese: Swap mozzarella for cheddar, pepper jack, or gouda for a new flavor twist.
Go lean: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
Add veggies: Finely chopped spinach, grated zucchini, or mushrooms can be mixed into the meatloaf for added nutrition.
Spice it up: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a kick of heat.
Gluten-free: Substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.

Don’t be afraid to experiment! This recipe is forgiving and easy to customize to your taste.

Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this Mozzarella Stuffed Meatloaf is guaranteed to impress. Once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it! 🍴