Stuffed Meatloaf: Greedy and Cheesy!

Stuffed Meatloaf is a delectable evolution of the classic meatloaf, enhancing its comforting essence by incorporating savory fillings such as cheese, herbs, and meat. These ingredients not only amplifies the flavor but also adds a delightful surprise to each slice.​

This dish all comes together in one mixing bowl, a quick sauté, and a single baking pan. Mix your meat, fold in the flavor-packed filling, press in mozzarella like you're tucking in treasure, slather on ketchup, and bake it until the top sings. It’s a hearty, no-nonsense main course, ideal for weeknight meals and unexpected guests.

The Meaty Origins of a Classic Reinvented

The humble meatloaf has been comforting generations since ancient Romans started blending minced meat with spices. Fast forward to the 20th century, and it became a Depression-era staple in American kitchens, stretching meat to feed large families.

But the stuffed meatloaf? It’s popular in Italy and the Balkans under various names like “polpettone.” The idea of adding fillings, such as cheese, hard-boiled eggs, or even ham, gives the traditional loaf a show-stopping twist.

Pro Tips for the Best Stuffed Meatloaf

• Sauté veggies before mixing. It deepens flavor and softens the carrots and onions, making everything melt together.
• Chop veggies finely because nobody wants chunky surprise carrot cubes.
• Use full-fat sour cream, as it adds moisture and tang.
• Stuff generously, but not messily. Keep mozzarella toward the center to prevent it from leaking out.
• Shape the loaf with damp hands which will prevent sticking and give you more control.

Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?

While beef or pork is traditional, ground turkey or chicken works too. Just keep in mind they’re leaner, so you might want to up the sour cream or add a bit more olive oil to keep the loaf moist.

What If I Don’t Like Mozzarella?

Swap it out for gouda, cheddar, or even blue cheese. Just use something that melts well and holds its shape slightly.

Is It Okay to Freeze Stuffed Meatloaf?

Totally. Wrap it tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat until warm through.

What Sides Go Well With It?

Mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or even a side of garlic bread if you’re in the mood to double down on indulgence.

My Meatloaf Fell Apart, What Happened?

It likely needed more binding. Make sure your eggs, breadcrumbs, and sour cream are well incorporated. Letting it cool a bit before slicing also helps it hold together.

Can I Skip the Ketchup?

You can! Use BBQ sauce, tomato paste, or a mustard glaze instead. But don’t skip a topping entirely, it seals in moisture and adds flavor.

How Do I Know It’s Done?

A meat thermometer should read 70°C (160°F) in the center. No thermometer? Look for firm texture, browned edges.

Can I Cook This Without a Baking Dish?

It’s best in a loaf pan or dish to keep it from spreading. But you can free-form it on a baking sheet lined with parchment in a pinch.

How Can I Make It Spicier?

Add chili flakes, a chopped jalapeño, or a splash of hot sauce to the meat mixture. Want to level up? Use pepper jack cheese inside.

How to Make Stuffed Meatloaf

Step 1

Step 1

Heat olive oil in a skillet. Add chopped onions and carrots and sauté until softened, about 5–7 minutes. Let them cool slightly.

Heat olive oil in a skillet. Add chopped onions and carrots and sauté until softened, about 5–7 minutes. Let them cool slightly.

Step 2

Step 2

In a bowl, combine ground meat, eggs, breadcrumbs, sour cream, parsley, salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. Add in the sautéed vegetables and mix gently until just combined.

In a bowl, combine ground meat, eggs, breadcrumbs, sour cream, parsley, salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. Add in the sautéed vegetables and mix gently until just combined.

Step 3

Step 3

Transfer the meat mixture into a baking pan. Shape it into a loaf, then press cubes of mozzarella into the center. Mold the meat back over to seal the cheese inside.

Transfer the meat mixture into a baking pan. Shape it into a loaf, then press cubes of mozzarella into the center. Mold the meat back over to seal the cheese inside.

Step 4

Step 4

Spread ketchup on top to add a tangy kick and keep the loaf moist.

Spread ketchup on top to add a tangy kick and keep the loaf moist.

Step 5

Step 5

Slide it into a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) and bake for 45 minutes, or until fully cooked through.

Slide it into a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) and bake for 45 minutes, or until fully cooked through.