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Savory Meatloaf with Italian Sausage and Mozzarella

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A juicy and flavorful meatloaf stuffed with mozzarella and Italian sausage, perfect for cozy dinners and easy weeknight meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
  • 1 lb ground beef (80% lean)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (about 100 g)
  • 3/4 cup breadcrumbs (75 g), plain or Italian seasoned
  • 1/4 cup milk (60 ml), any type or dairy-free alternative
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (25 g)
  • 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tsp Italian seasoning (basil, oregano, rosemary, thyme blend)
  • Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 cup tomato sauce or ketchup (120 ml) for glazing
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking dish with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the milk and eggs until combined.
  3. Add the Italian sausage and ground beef to the bowl. Gently combine with your hands or a spoon without overmixing.
  4. Add breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, chopped onion, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined; the mixture should be moist but hold together.
  5. Set aside about 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese for stuffing.
  6. Transfer half the meat mixture into the pan and press down gently. Sprinkle the reserved mozzarella evenly over this layer.
  7. Top with the remaining meat mixture and press to seal the cheese inside, shaping into a loaf.
  8. Spread tomato sauce or ketchup evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
  9. Bake for 50-60 minutes. If the top browns too quickly, tent loosely with foil after 40 minutes. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).
  10. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.
  11. Slice thick and serve warm.

Notes

Do not overmix the meat to keep the loaf tender. Use a meat thermometer to ensure internal temperature reaches 160°F. Let the meatloaf rest before slicing to keep it juicy. For gluten-free, substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free crumbs. For dairy-free, use vegan mozzarella and plant-based milk. If the top browns too fast, tent with foil after 40 minutes. Brushing extra tomato sauce or olive oil on slices can add moisture if needed.

Nutrition

Keywords: meatloaf, Italian sausage, mozzarella, comfort food, easy dinner, weeknight meal, savory meatloaf

Find it online: https://leilameals.com/savory-meatloaf-with-italian-sausage-and-mozzarella-easy-recipe-for-perfect-comfort-food/