Get ready to transform your dinner routine with these irresistible Mozzarella Stuffed Italian Mini Meatloaves that combine the hearty goodness of classic meatloaf with the ooey-gooey surprise of melted mozzarella cheese. Imagine cutting into a perfectly seasoned beef mini loaf and watching that molten cheese center ooze out – it's a culinary experience that will have your family and friends begging for seconds! These individual-sized meatloaves are not just a meal, they're a flavor-packed adventure that brings the warmth of Italian comfort food right to your dining table.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking sheet or line with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly using your hands until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Divide the meat mixture into 4 equal portions, creating a flat patty shape for each mini meatloaf.
- Place 2-3 cubes of mozzarella cheese in the center of each meat patty, then carefully fold and seal the meat around the cheese, ensuring the mozzarella is completely enclosed.
- Shape each portion into a compact mini meatloaf, making sure the cheese is fully covered to prevent leakage during cooking.
- Arrange the meatloaves on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each to ensure even cooking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the meat is fully cooked with a golden-brown exterior.
- Remove from the oven and let the meatloaves rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set and juices to redistribute.
- Optional: Garnish with additional chopped parsley and serve with marinara sauce or your favorite side dishes.
Tips
- Use cold, cubed mozzarella and ensure it's completely sealed inside the meat to prevent cheese leakage during cooking.
- Don't overmix the meat mixture – this can make your meatloaves tough. Mix just until ingredients are combined.
- For extra flavor, consider adding minced garlic or Italian seasoning to the meat mixture.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F for safe consumption.
- Let the meatloaves rest for 5 minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute and cheese to set.
- For a crispy exterior, you can broil the meatloaves for 1-2 minutes at the end of cooking.
- Experiment with different cheese types or add a layer of marinara sauce on top for variation.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 344kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
