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Parmesan Meatloaf with Marinara & Mozzarella

Parmesan Meatloaf with Marinara & Mozzarella

Parmesan Meatloaf with Marinara & Mozzarella is an elevated comfort food classic featuring a hearty ground beef base infused with Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, encasing a creamy mozzarella center, topped with tangy marinara sauce. This melt-in-your-mouth recipe is perfect for family dinners or special occasions, combining rich, savory flavors with a gooey, cheesy texture.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup shredded or sliced fresh mozzarella cheese
  • 3/4 cup marinara sauce
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 eggs
  • 1/2 cup diced onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare the mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, diced onion, minced garlic, eggs, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until all ingredients are evenly incorporated but avoid overworking the meat to keep the meatloaf tender.
  2. Add the mozzarella center: Shape half of the meat mixture into a loaf on a baking sheet. Layer slices or shredded mozzarella cheese in the middle, leaving a border around the edges. Cover the cheese with the remaining meat mixture and seal well to encase the cheese thoroughly.
  3. Top with marinara sauce: Spread a generous layer of marinara sauce over the surface of the meatloaf. This helps keep the meat moist during baking and infuses it with tangy Italian flavor.
  4. Bake to perfection: Bake the meatloaf in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing to retain its juiciness.
  5. Serve and enjoy: Spoon extra marinara sauce over each slice and garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Each bite delivers a cheesy, saucy, and perfectly seasoned meatloaf experience.

Notes

  • Use fresh mozzarella for the creamiest melt and best texture.
  • Let the meatloaf rest after baking to redistribute juices for moist slices.
  • Mix ingredients gently to prevent a dense or tough meatloaf.
  • Using high-quality or homemade marinara sauce greatly enhances the flavor.
  • Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.

Nutrition

Keywords: Meatloaf, Parmesan Meatloaf, Marinara Sauce, Mozzarella, Italian Comfort Food, Family Dinner, Easy Meatloaf, Cheese Stuffed Meatloaf