Cheesy Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatloaf
This is not the dry, forgettable meatloaf from childhood dinners. This is the kind of meatloaf that makes people hover near the oven, waiting for that first cheesy slice. Cheesy Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatloaf is pure comfort food—hearty, cozy, and just a little indulgent. When you cut into it and see that stretchy, melty mozzarella tucked inside, it feels like a small victory at the dinner table.
It’s perfect for relaxed family nights, chilly evenings, or anytime you want a meal that feels familiar but a little extra special. The kitchen fills with the smell of garlic, onion, and savory beef as it bakes, and once it’s out of the oven, all you need is a sharp knife and a little patience while it rests. This is the kind of dish that brings everyone back for seconds.
Ingredients
2 pounds ground beef (80/20 recommended)
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup milk
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 large eggs
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (plus extra for topping)
1 cup marinara sauce or ketchup-based glaze
Chopped parsley, for garnish
Instructions
Preheat and prep.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan so nothing sticks later.Mix the meatloaf base.
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, garlic, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until everything is just combined. Stop as soon as it comes together—overmixing can make the meatloaf dense.Shape and stuff.
Press half of the meat mixture into your loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on the baking sheet. Make a shallow well down the center and fill it generously with shredded mozzarella. Cover with the remaining meat mixture and gently press the edges to seal the cheese inside.Top and bake.
Spread the marinara sauce or glaze evenly over the top. Slide it into the oven and bake for 45 minutes.Add the cheesy finish.
Pull the meatloaf out and sprinkle extra mozzarella over the top. Return it to the oven for another 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).Rest before slicing.
Let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes. This helps it hold together and keeps the cheese perfectly melty instead of spilling out all at once.
Presentation
Slice the meatloaf thick so you can really see that gooey mozzarella center. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for a fresh pop of color. It looks especially inviting served with creamy mashed potatoes, buttery pasta, or simple roasted vegetables. A little extra sauce spooned on the side never hurts, either.
Nutritional Information:
⏰ Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 55 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
🔥 Kcal: 520 kcal per serving | 🍽️ Servings: 6 servings
Conclusion
Cheesy Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatloaf is everything comfort food should be—savory, satisfying, and just plain fun to eat. It’s familiar enough to feel nostalgic, but the hidden cheese makes it feel special every single time. If you’re craving a cozy dinner that brings smiles to the table, this recipe is well worth a spot in your regular rotation. Make it once, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a favorite.