Go Back
Close-up of a delicious Stuffed Italian Meatloaf Dinner, showcasing the juicy meatloaf and colorful vegetable sides.

Best Stuffed Italian Meatloaf Dinner

This Stuffed Italian Meatloaf Dinner transforms a classic dish into a cheesy, herby, saucy masterpiece. It features a flavorful ricotta, Parmesan, and herb stuffing and is topped with a vibrant marinara sauce, making it a comforting and impressive meal.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 600
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 pounds ground beef 80/20
  • 0.5 pound ground Italian sausage
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup milk or cream
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 15 ounces ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 ounces provolone cheese slices
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 24 ounces marinara sauce
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes optional

Equipment

  • Large bowl
  • small bowl
  • baking sheet
  • parchment paper
  • measuring cups and spoons
  • Mixing spoons
  • Meat thermometer
  • knife
  • cutting board
  • Oven

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, Italian sausage, breadcrumbs, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, milk or cream, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Gently mix until just combined.
  3. In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, chopped parsley, chopped basil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  4. On a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper, gently press half of the meatloaf mixture into a rectangle shape, about 1 inch thick.
  5. Carefully layer provolone cheese slices down the center of the meatloaf, overlapping them slightly.
  6. Evenly spread the ricotta cheese mixture over the cheese, leaving about an inch border around the edges.
  7. Gently place the remaining meatloaf mixture on top of the stuffing, carefully sealing the edges. Pinch the edges together to create a tight seal.
  8. Gently shape the meatloaf into a loaf shape. Wet your hands with cold water to prevent sticking.
  9. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce over the top of the meatloaf.
  10. Bake for 60-75 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  11. Let the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
  12. Heat up the remaining marinara sauce.
  13. Slice the meatloaf into thick slices and serve with a generous spoonful of marinara sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil, if desired.

Notes

Don't overmix the meatloaf mixture to avoid a tough meatloaf. Use quality ingredients for the best flavor. Let the meatloaf rest before slicing for a more moist and flavorful result. Customize the stuffing with spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes. Meatloaf freezes well, either before or after baking. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days and reheat in the microwave or oven.