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Savory Stuffed Meatloaf Recipe – Easy Cheesy Beef Dinner for Families

savory stuffed meatloaf - featured image

This savory stuffed meatloaf features juicy ground beef, a gooey cheese center, and a sweet tangy glaze. It’s a comforting, crowd-pleasing dinner perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lb ground beef (80/20 recommended)
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-style, or panko)
  • 1/2 cup milk (whole or 2%, or unsweetened almond milk)
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 1 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, or blend)
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/3 cup ketchup (for glaze)
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar (for glaze)
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (for glaze)
  • Optional: pinch of cayenne or barbecue sauce for glaze

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. Mix gently until just combined.
  3. Press half of the meat mixture into the bottom of the loaf pan, flattening evenly.
  4. Sprinkle shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese in a thick layer down the center, leaving a 1/2-inch border on all sides. Press lightly.
  5. Place the remaining meat mixture on top, pressing to seal the edges and cover the cheese. Smooth the top.
  6. In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar for the glaze. Spread generously over the top of the meatloaf.
  7. Bake uncovered for 55-65 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 160°F. Tent loosely with foil if the top browns too quickly.
  8. Let the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes after baking. Slice into thick pieces and serve warm.

Notes

For gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour. For low-carb, swap breadcrumbs for almond flour or crushed pork rinds. Dairy-free cheese and non-dairy milk can be substituted. Seal edges tightly to prevent cheese leakage. Let rest before slicing for best results. Add grated veggies for extra nutrition.

Nutrition

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