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A delicious, sliced Italian Meatloaf with Mozzarella cheese, rich tomato sauce, and fresh parsley on a white plate.
Maryam

Italian Meatloaf with Mozzarella

This savory Italian meatloaf is packed with classic flavors, a gooey mozzarella center, and topped with a simple, tangy tomato glaze, making it a comforting family favorite.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 35 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Meatloaf
  • 2 lbs ground beef lean (80/20 or 85/15)
  • 1/2 cup Italian breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 2 large eggs lightly beaten
  • 1/2 cup yellow onion finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
For the Mozzarella Filling
  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella drained and thinly sliced or shredded
For the Glaze
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar packed
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

Equipment

  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • 9x5 inch Loaf Pan
  • Small saucepan
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cutting board
  • Knife
  • Baking Sheet

Method
 

Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture
  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, Italian breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, milk, eggs, finely diced yellow onion, minced garlic, chopped fresh parsley, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Using your hands, gently mix all ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
  4. Press about half of the meatloaf mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
  5. Arrange the thinly sliced or shredded mozzarella cheese over the first layer of meatloaf, leaving a small border around the edges.
  6. Carefully top with the remaining meatloaf mixture, pressing it gently to seal the mozzarella completely and form a cohesive loaf.
Glaze and Bake
  1. In a small saucepan, combine the ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring until the brown sugar is dissolved and the glaze is smooth.
  2. Pour about two-thirds of the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf in the pan.
  3. Place the loaf pan on a baking sheet (to catch any potential drips) and bake in the preheated oven for 50 minutes.
  4. After 50 minutes, remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread the remaining glaze over the top. Return to the oven and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) when measured with a meat thermometer.
Rest and Serve
  1. Once cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest in the pan for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moister meatloaf. Slice and serve warm.

Notes

For an extra layer of flavor, you can sauté the diced onion and garlic before adding them to the meat mixture. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This meatloaf is excellent served with mashed potatoes or a simple side salad.