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Italian Meatloaf

Italian Meatloaf: Comfort Food with a Cheesy Surprise

Italian Meatloaf transforms humble ingredients into a gourmet dish with a cheesy surprise at its center.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Beef
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meatloaf
  • 1 pound Ground Beef Use 80/20 for optimal juiciness
  • 1 pound Ground Italian Sausage Optional for an extra meat punch
  • 1 cup Breadcrumbs Substitute with gluten-free options if necessary
  • 2 large Eggs Binds the ingredients together
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Feel free to substitute with fresh garlic
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Fresh onions work nicely too if preferred
  • 2 teaspoons Italian Seasoning Key for authentic Italian flavor
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Essential for flavor
  • 1/2 teaspoon Pepper Essential for flavor
For the Filling
  • 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese Can swap with provolone or cheddar
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Avoid fresh cheese if that's all you have
  • 1 cup Spinach Optional, introduces color and nutrients
For the Topping
  • 1 cup Marinara Sauce Enhances the Italian experience

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowls
  • Baking Sheet
  • Parchment paper

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, Italian sausage (if using), breadcrumbs, eggs, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
  3. In a separate bowl, mix together mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and optional spinach. Ensure that the ingredients are well integrated.
  4. On a sheet of parchment paper or a lined baking sheet, shape the meat mixture into a rectangle about ½ inch thick.
  5. Spread the cheese filling evenly over the meat, ensuring to leave about an inch around the edges.
  6. Using the parchment paper, gently roll the meatloaf away from you, encasing the cheese filling tightly. Seal the edges.
  7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  8. In the last 10 minutes of baking, remove the meatloaf and generously top it with marinara sauce.
  9. Once baked, let the Italian Meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing.

Nutrition

Serving: 1slicesCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 15mg

Notes

This dish is perfect for meal prep and can be customized with different fillings or ingredients. Serve with creamy mashed potatoes or a fresh salad.

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