Stuffed Italian Meatloaf
A comforting and delicious meatloaf stuffed with cheese and spinach, wrapped in marinara sauce that brings family together.
Ingredients
Meat Mixture
- 1 lb ground beef Use lean for a healthier option.
- 1 lb ground turkey A great way to reduce fat; swap with ground chicken if preferred.
- 1 cup breadcrumbs Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs add extra flavor, but plain works too.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese For a nutty finish; substitute with pecorino if you want a different zing.
- 1 cup fresh spinach or kale Packed with nutrients, or swap for finely chopped broccoli for a change.
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese Fresh mozzarella provides a creamy texture; shredded works just fine.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley Brightens up the dish; dried is okay in a pinch.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic adds depth; garlic powder can work if you’re short on time.
- 1 large egg Acts as a binder; flaxseed mixed with water can be a vegan substitute.
Sauce and Seasoning
- 1 cup marinara sauce Choose homemade for best flavor, or a good-quality jarred sauce will suffice.
- Salt and pepper to taste Essential for flavor enhancement.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef and turkey.
- Add breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped spinach, mozzarella, parsley, minced garlic, and the egg. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Mix until just combined; do not overwork the meat.
- On a sheet of parchment paper, shape the meat mixture into a rectangular loaf, about 1 inch thick.
- Drizzle a third of the marinara sauce in the center of the meatloaf and fold over the sides to encase the filling.
- Place the stuffed loaf onto a baking tray, seam side down, and smother with the remaining marinara sauce.
Cooking
- Bake in the oven for 35-40 minutes until cooked through, and a meat thermometer reads 160°F (70°C).
- Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Notes
For a healthier option, consider using ground turkey or chicken. Make it seasonal by adding roasted vegetables or using different herbs based on what's fresh and available. Swap out the marinara sauce for a creamy Alfredo for a unique twist.