Description

Stuffed Italian Meatloaf is a hearty, flavor-packed twist on the traditional meatloaf, layered with creamy ricotta, gooey mozzarella, and tender spinach, all wrapped in seasoned ground beef and topped with marinara sauce. It’s a satisfying dish perfect for quick weeknight dinners, cozy family gatherings, or make-ahead meal prep. Whether you’re exploring new dinner ideas, searching for a comfort food fix, or looking for an easy recipe with bold Italian flavor, this meatloaf delivers. It’s everything you love about lasagna, minus the noodles—perfect for those following low-carb or gluten-free diets too.

Ingredients

2 pounds ground beef (80/20 preferred)

1 cup Italian breadcrumbs

2 large eggs

1/2 cup whole milk

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 small onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 teaspoons Italian seasoning

1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

1 1/2 teaspoons salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup fresh spinach, chopped and lightly sautéed

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 1/2 cups marinara sauce

1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Fresh chopped basil or parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a loaf pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it.

2. In a large bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, Parmesan, onion, garlic, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper until just combined.

3. In a separate bowl, mix ricotta, shredded mozzarella, sautéed spinach, garlic powder, and salt to form the filling.

4. Press half of the meat mixture into the pan, forming a bottom layer with raised sides. Spread the cheese filling evenly inside.

5. Cover with the remaining meat, pressing to seal the edges and fully enclose the filling.

6. Bake uncovered for 45 minutes. Then remove, spread marinara sauce on top, sprinkle with remaining mozzarella, and bake for another 15 minutes.

7. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped basil or parsley and serve hot.

Notes

Use 80/20 ground beef for a juicy but not greasy meatloaf.

Always let it rest before slicing to help the structure set and preserve moisture.

Substitute almond flour for breadcrumbs to make it low-carb or keto-friendly.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 410
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 720mg
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 14g
Trans Fat: 0.5g
Carbohydrates: 9g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 32g
Cholesterol: 125mg

Keywords: stuffed meatloaf, Italian meatloaf, dinner ideas, cheesy meatloaf, low carb comfort food