This Stuffed Meatloaf with Mozzarella is the cozy dinner upgrade you didn’t know you needed. Imagine tender, well-seasoned beef hugging a gooey, molten core of melted mozzarella, finished off with a sweet-savory glaze that caramelizes just right in the oven. It’s nostalgic, comforting, and impressively delicious.

Perfect for a weeknight dinner or an unexpected star on your Sunday table, this meatloaf delivers flavor and drama in every slice. It’s cheesy, juicy, and practically begs to be paired with mashed potatoes or roasted green beans. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or prepping ahead, this recipe checks every box for a family-favorite.

What Kind of Mozzarella Works Best?

For that irresistible cheese pull and melty center, low-moisture mozzarella sticks or block mozzarella cut into strips work beautifully. Fresh mozzarella can release too much moisture and make the meatloaf soggy, so stick with the firmer varieties.

Ingredients for the Stuffed Meatloaf with Mozzarella

Ground Beef (80/20): A juicy, flavorful base with enough fat to stay moist.
Breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meat mixture and keeps the texture tender.
Eggs: Essential for structure and binding.
Onion (finely chopped): Adds a touch of sweetness and aromatic depth.
Garlic (minced): Infuses the meat with bold flavor.
Worcestershire Sauce: Adds savory umami richness.
Italian Seasoning: A classic herb blend to amplify the meat.
Salt & Pepper: For balanced seasoning.
Mozzarella Cheese: The gooey centerpiece – sliceable and melt-friendly.
Ketchup + Brown Sugar + Dijon Mustard (for glaze): Sweet, tangy topping that caramelizes beautifully.

How To Make the Stuffed Meatloaf with Mozzarella

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet or loaf pan with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Make the Meat Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, beaten eggs, chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix with your hands until everything is evenly incorporated, but don’t overmix to avoid toughness.

Step 3: Shape and Stuff

Flatten half of the meat mixture into a loaf shape on your prepared pan. Place the mozzarella in the center, then cover with the remaining meat mixture. Seal the edges well to keep all that gooey cheese locked inside.

Step 4: Glaze It

In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard. Spread the glaze generously over the top of the meatloaf.

Step 5: Bake and Rest

Bake uncovered for 45-55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing — this helps the juices redistribute and cheese settle.

How to Serve and Store Your Stuffed Meatloaf

Serve thick, cheesy slices with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad. It also makes an amazing meatloaf sandwich the next day on toasted sourdough or brioche.

Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 4 days in an airtight container. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 325°F until warmed through or microwave in 30-second bursts.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out?

Seal the meat edges tightly around the cheese and let it rest after baking so it doesn’t ooze out too quickly.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes! Provolone, fontina, or gouda all melt beautifully. Just avoid watery cheeses like fresh mozzarella.

Is it freezer friendly?

Absolutely. Wrap the uncooked meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.

Can I make it ahead?

You can assemble it a day ahead and refrigerate. Just add the glaze before baking.

What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?

Crushed crackers, oats, or almond flour (for low-carb) work well as substitutes.

Want More Dinner Ideas with Cheese and Comfort?

If this mozzarella-stuffed meatloaf hit the spot, try these comfort-packed dinner winners:

Ultimate Cheesy Ground Beef Melt for a next-level grilled sandwich.
Creamy Parmesan Pasta with Sauteed Garlic Butter Chicken for cozy, creamy comfort.
Cream Cheese Chicken if you’re craving tender, saucy bites.
Honey Garlic Ribs when you want a sticky-sweet alternative.

Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try a cheddar center instead? Maybe added jalapeños for a spicy twist?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter!

Stuffed Meatloaf with Mozzarella

Author: Nina Johnson
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Dinner

Print Recipe

Description

This stuffed meatloaf isn’t your average loaf. It takes a comfort classic and gives it a gooey, cheesy upgrade with a molten mozzarella center and a perfectly caramelized glaze. Juicy, flavorful, and showstoppingly satisfying, it’s ideal for family dinners or when you want comfort food that feels a little extra.

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet or loaf pan with parchment or foil.
In a large bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, onion, garlic, Worcestershire, seasoning, salt, and pepper until combined.
Shape half the mixture into a loaf base. Lay mozzarella in the center. Top with remaining meat and seal edges.
Mix ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Spread over meatloaf.
Bake for 45-55 minutes or until internal temp reaches 160°F.
Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing to keep juices and cheese in place.