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Amazing Cheese-Stuffed Meatloaf (Ultimate Family Favorite)

Cheese-Stuffed Meatloaf (Ultimate Family Favorite)

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Transform your classic meatloaf into a showstopper with this recipe for Cheese-Stuffed Meatloaf. A gooey, melted cheese center makes this family favorite irresistible for everyone at your table.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 recommended)
  • 1 cup bread crumbs
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 cup ketchup (for mixing in)
  • 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, cut into 1/2 inch cubes
  • 1/2 cup ketchup (for topping)
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar (for topping)
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (for topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, egg, milk, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, thyme, and 1/2 cup of ketchup. Mix gently with your hands until just combined. Do not overmix.
  3. Divide the meat mixture in half. On a sheet of plastic wrap or wax paper, shape the first half into a rectangle about 1/2 inch thick.
  4. Arrange the cubed mozzarella cheese in a single line down the center of the meat rectangle, leaving about an inch of space clear on both ends.
  5. Use the plastic wrap to help you carefully fold the sides of the meat mixture up and over the cheese, sealing the edges completely to form a tight loaf shape.
  6. Place the stuffed meatloaf seam-side down in your prepared loaf pan or on the baking sheet.
  7. In a small bowl, whisk together the topping ingredients: 1/2 cup ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Spread this glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
  8. Bake for 60 to 75 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees F (71 degrees C).
  9. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This lets the juices settle.
  10. Slice and serve your cheesy creation.

Notes

  • For a fresher take, try incorporating grated carrots or zucchini into the meat mixture (squeeze out any excess moisture first).
  • If you prefer an open-faced loaf, skip stuffing and simply press the cheese cubes into the top center of the loaf before glazing and baking.
  • Use a mix of cheeses like cheddar and Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.

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