If you’re searching for a hearty, satisfying, and flavor-packed dinner that brings everyone to the table, this Cheesy Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatloaf is exactly the recipe you need. Moist, rich, beautifully seasoned, and topped with a golden layer of cheese and a sweet-tangy glaze, this meatloaf takes comfort cooking to a whole new level. What makes it even more irresistible is the creamy mozzarella hidden inside, creating a gooey center with every slice.
This article provides a fully detailed and SEO-optimized recipe, including preparation steps, helpful tips, serving ideas, and storage instructions. Whether you’re running a recipe blog or simply cooking for the family, this dish is guaranteed to impress.
Why This Cheesy Meatloaf Is a Must-Try
This recipe goes beyond classic meatloaf by adding layers of flavor and texture. With savory ground meat, aromatic herbs, melted mozzarella, and a homemade ketchup glaze, it balances comfort and creativity. It’s an easy dish to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or special family meals.
The recipe also uses simple pantry ingredients, making it accessible, economical, and ideal for content creators who want highly searchable, ad-friendly, and SEO-rich food content for their websites.
Ingredients for Cheesy Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatloaf
For the Meatloaf Mixture
1 kg (2.2 lbs) ground beef (or half beef, half ground turkey)
1 medium onion, finely minced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup breadcrumbs
2 large eggs
½ cup milk
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
For the Filling
250g (9 oz) mozzarella cheese, cut into sticks or slices
For the Glaze
½ cup ketchup
2 tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tbsp tomato paste
For Topping
Extra mozzarella for melting
Fresh chopped parsley
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Meat Mixture
Start by combining the ground beef with the minced onion and garlic. Add in the breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, and Parmesan cheese. These ingredients ensure the meatloaf stays moist, flavorful, and tender. The milk and breadcrumbs together act as a binder, preventing the meatloaf from becoming dense or dry.
Season with parsley, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and salt. Mix everything thoroughly, but do not overwork the mixture—overmixing can lead to a tougher texture. Once the ingredients are evenly combined, set the bowl aside while you prepare the filling.
- Shape and Stuff the Meatloaf
Divide the meat mixture into two portions. On a parchment-lined surface, flatten the first portion into a rectangular shape. Place the mozzarella slices or sticks in the center, leaving a small border around the edges.
Gently take the second portion of the meat mixture and place it on top. Seal the edges by pressing lightly with your fingers, ensuring the cheese stays fully enclosed while baking.
Transfer the shaped meatloaf to a loaf pan or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Add the Sweet-Tangy Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and tomato paste until smooth. This glaze adds depth, sweetness, acidity, and shine.
Generously spread half the glaze on top of the meatloaf before baking. The remaining half will be added later for a beautiful glossy finish.
- Bake the Meatloaf
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
Bake the meatloaf for about 45 minutes, then remove it from the oven and top it with the remaining glaze. Add an extra layer of mozzarella cheese over the top and return it to the oven.
Continue baking for another 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden and the internal temperature reaches 70°C (160°F).
- Rest and Garnish
Once removed from the oven, let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making the slices firmer and more enjoyable.
Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for color and freshness.
Slice, serve warm, and enjoy the creamy cheese melting from the inside—your kitchen will smell absolutely incredible.
Serving Suggestions
Cheesy mozzarella meatloaf pairs beautifully with classic comfort-food sides. Here are some ideas for readers searching for inspiration:
Creamy mashed potatoes
Garlic bread or toasted baguette slices
Roasted vegetables like carrots, broccoli, or zucchini
Mac and cheese for an ultra-comforting plate
Fresh garden salad for a lighter balance
This flexibility makes the dish perfect for everyday meals or special occasions, and great for SEO search terms like “best sides for meatloaf” or “what to serve with meatloaf.”
Storage and Meal Prep Tips
Food bloggers love adding storage info because it increases article value and SEO ranking. Here’s how to store this cheesy meatloaf properly:
Refrigerator: Lasts 3–4 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Warm in the oven at 160°C (320°F) for 10–12 minutes to preserve texture.
Adding reheating and freezing instructions also improves search visibility for long-tail keywords such as “how to store meatloaf” and “can you freeze meatloaf with cheese.”