Description
A delightful twist on classic meatloaf filled with gooey mozzarella cheese, seasoned beef, and herbs that will be a hit for the whole family.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 lbs ground beef
- 1/2 cup Italian breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce, plus extra for topping
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese or mozzarella sticks
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, Italian breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, marinara sauce, milk, chopped onion, minced garlic, beaten eggs, Italian seasoning, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
- Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared baking sheet and flatten it into a rectangular shape. Place the shredded mozzarella cheese down the center and fold the meat over the cheese, sealing it well to shape into a loaf.
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce over the top and bake for about 45 minutes.
- Add more mozzarella on top and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until bubbly. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) before letting it rest for 5 minutes and garnishing with fresh parsley.
Notes
Avoid over-mixing the meat to keep texture tender. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked safely.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 80mg