Description
This Italian-style meatloaf is filled with gooey mozzarella and topped with marinara, making it a bold and cheesy take on classic comfort. A homemade meatloaf recipe packed with herby flavor.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef (80% lean)
1 large egg, beaten
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup milk or half-and-half
1/2 cup marinara sauce (plus extra for topping)
1 tbsp Italian seasoning
1 tsp garlic powder or 1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease or line a loaf pan with parchment.
3. In a large bowl, combine beef, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, 1/2 cup marinara, Italian seasoning, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Do not overmix—mix just until combined.
5. Press half the mixture into the loaf pan.
6. Line center with mozzarella cubes.
7. Cover with remaining meat mixture, sealing the cheese inside.
8. Top with extra marinara sauce.
9. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F.
10. Let rest 10 minutes before slicing.
Notes
Use fresh mozzarella for extra gooey texture.
You can prepare this meatloaf ahead and refrigerate before baking.
It pairs beautifully with garlic bread, salad, or roasted green beans.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: italian meatloaf, mozzarella meatloaf, cheesy meatloaf, homemade meatloaf