There’s something magical about slicing into a Mozzarella Stuffed Meatloaf and watching the gooey, melty cheese ooze out from the center. This twist on a classic comfort food elevates the humble meatloaf into something truly special.

I first made this recipe for a family gathering, hoping to impress my in-laws with something hearty yet a little unexpected. The result? Clean plates and plenty of requests for the recipe! Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this cheesy meatloaf is sure to steal the show. Ready to dive in? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Mozzarella Stuffed Meatloaf

This isn’t just any meatloaf – it’s a flavor-packed dinner with a surprise cheesy center. Here’s why this recipe deserves a spot in your rotation:

Elevated Comfort Food: Traditional meatloaf gets an upgrade with a core of gooey mozzarella cheese, making it both comforting and indulgent.
Simple Ingredients: You don’t need anything fancy to make this showstopping dish. Ground beef, breadcrumbs, mozzarella, and a handful of pantry staples come together effortlessly.
Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters love this dish. The cheesy surprise inside is a hit with kids and adults alike!
Meal Prep Perfection: This meatloaf reheats beautifully, making it ideal for leftovers or prepping ahead for busy weeknights.

With so much to love, this meatloaf is destined to become a new favorite. Let’s talk about the ingredients you’ll need to bring it to life!

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Mozzarella Stuffed Meatloaf lies in its straightforward yet well-balanced ingredients. Each one plays a role in creating the perfect texture and flavor:

Ground Beef: The base of the meatloaf. I recommend an 80/20 blend for the right balance of moisture and richness. For a leaner option, you can mix in ground turkey or chicken.
Breadcrumbs: Essential for binding the meatloaf together. Use plain or Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs for added flavor. Panko works in a pinch, but you may need slightly less since it’s coarser.
Eggs: These act as a binder, ensuring the meatloaf holds its shape and stays moist.
Milk: A splash of milk keeps the meatloaf tender, preventing it from becoming dense or dry.
Seasonings: A mix of onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, and Italian seasoning adds depth to every bite. Don’t forget the salt and pepper!
Mozzarella Cheese: The star of the show! Use a block of mozzarella for the best melt factor, and cut it into a log or use string cheese for convenience.
Ketchup or Tomato Sauce: Spread on top of the meatloaf for that classic, tangy glaze. For a more robust flavor, you can mix in a touch of Worcestershire sauce.

You’ll also need a loaf pan for shaping the meatloaf and some parchment paper for easy cleanup.

How To Make Mozzarella Stuffed Meatloaf

Creating this cheesy, flavorful meatloaf is simpler than it looks. Follow these steps for a foolproof dinner:

Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a loaf pan with parchment paper. This ensures easy removal and cleanup.
Mix the Meatloaf Base: In a large bowl, combine your ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, and seasonings. Mix gently with your hands or a fork until just combined. Be careful not to overwork the mixture, as this can make the meatloaf dense.
Shape the Meatloaf: Transfer half of the meat mixture to the prepared loaf pan, pressing it into an even layer. Create a shallow trench in the center, leaving the sides higher to form a pocket for the cheese.
Add the Mozzarella: Place your mozzarella log or strips into the trench, ensuring they’re fully enclosed by the meat on all sides. Cover with the remaining meat mixture, sealing the edges well to prevent the cheese from escaping as it melts.
Top with Glaze: Spread a layer of ketchup or tomato sauce over the top of the meatloaf. For extra flavor, mix the ketchup with a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a sprinkle of brown sugar.
Bake and Rest: Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing to allow the cheese to settle and the juices to redistribute.

Slice, serve, and enjoy the deliciously cheesy surprise in every bite!

Storage Options

This Mozzarella Stuffed Meatloaf is perfect for leftovers, and it stores beautifully:

Refrigerator: Store leftover slices in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven to maintain its moisture.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble the meatloaf up to a day in advance and refrigerate it, unbaked, in the loaf pan. When ready to cook, simply add the glaze and bake as directed.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is versatile and can be customized to suit your preferences or dietary needs:

Cheese Swaps: Try stuffing the meatloaf with shredded cheddar, provolone, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick.
Meat Blends: Use a combination of ground beef, pork, or turkey for a unique flavor profile.
Low-Carb Option: Swap breadcrumbs for almond flour or crushed pork rinds for a keto-friendly version.
Vegetable Boost: Finely dice and sauté onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms, then mix them into the meatloaf for added texture and flavor.
Spiced-Up Glaze: Add a touch of hot sauce or barbecue sauce to the ketchup glaze for a sweet and spicy finish.

No matter how you customize it, the gooey mozzarella center makes this meatloaf unforgettable.

This Mozzarella Stuffed Meatloaf is the ultimate comfort food with a cheesy surprise. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or impressing guests, it’s a recipe that’s guaranteed to deliver smiles. Serve it alongside mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple side salad for a complete and satisfying meal. Enjoy every melty, flavorful bite!