This cheese-stuffed meatloaf is a rich, savory twist on the classic comfort food. Packed with flavorful seasonings, tender ground meat, and a gooey melted cheese center, it’s finished with a tangy, sweet glaze that caramelizes beautifully as it bakes. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a hearty dish for guests, this meatloaf is a guaranteed hit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This meatloaf takes everything you love about traditional meatloaf and elevates it with the addition of melted cheese in the center. It’s juicy, flavorful, and holds its shape perfectly when sliced. The cheese-stuffed middle adds a surprise element and a creamy contrast to the hearty meat. Plus, the brown sugar-mustard ketchup glaze provides just the right balance of sweet and tangy.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

ground beef
ground pork (optional, for extra juiciness)
breadcrumbs
milk
onion, finely chopped
garlic, minced
egg
Worcestershire sauce
salt
black pepper
Italian seasoning
shredded mozzarella cheese (or cheese of choice)
ketchup
brown sugar
mustard

directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork (if using), breadcrumbs, milk, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix until thoroughly combined but not overworked.

3. On a piece of parchment paper, flatten the meat mixture into a rectangle about ½ inch thick.

4. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the center of the meat rectangle, leaving a 1-inch border along the edges.

5. Starting from one end, carefully roll the meat up over the cheese, sealing the edges and ends tightly to keep the cheese enclosed.

6. Transfer the rolled meatloaf to the prepared baking sheet and gently shape it into a loaf.

7. In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.

8. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).

9. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing to allow the juices and cheese to settle.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6–8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Calories per Serving: Approximately 420 kcal

Variations

• Cheese options: Try cheddar, provolone, pepper jack, or gouda for different flavor profiles.

• Spicy twist: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the meat mixture or use a spicy cheese.

• Low-carb option: Use crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs for a keto-friendly version.

• Herb infusion: Mix in fresh parsley or basil for a herbaceous touch.

• Mini loaves: Make individual mini meatloaves for faster cooking and easy portioning.

storage/reheating

Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat slices in the microwave or covered in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through. For freezing, wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this meatloaf without pork?

Yes, you can use only ground beef or substitute with ground turkey or chicken if preferred.

What type of cheese works best?

Mozzarella is great for melting, but cheddar, Swiss, or Monterey Jack also work well depending on your taste.

How do I keep the cheese from leaking out?

Be sure to seal the edges of the meat mixture tightly when rolling, and avoid overstuffing.

Can I use store-bought glaze?

Yes, but the homemade glaze is quick to make and offers a balanced sweet and tangy flavor.

Can I prepare the meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the meatloaf and store it in the refrigerator (uncooked) up to 24 hours in advance.

Is this freezer-friendly?

Absolutely. Wrap the uncooked or cooked meatloaf well and freeze. Thaw before baking or reheating.

Can I add vegetables to the mixture?

Yes, finely chopped mushrooms, spinach, or grated carrots can be mixed in for added nutrition.

Why let the meatloaf rest before slicing?

Resting allows the juices to redistribute and the cheese to firm up slightly for cleaner slices.

What side dishes go well with this meatloaf?

Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a green salad all complement this dish well.

Can I use a loaf pan?

Yes, but baking on a sheet allows for more even browning and a firmer texture.

Conclusion

Cheese-stuffed meatloaf is a comforting and flavorful take on a beloved classic. With its juicy texture, melty cheese center, and tangy glaze, it’s a dish that pleases every time. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking for impressive leftovers, this meatloaf is a hearty and satisfying option you’ll come back to again and again.

Delicious Cheese-Stuffed Meatloaf

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Olivia
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: -6 servings
• Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

This Cheese-Stuffed Meatloaf is juicy, flavorful, and filled with gooey melted cheese for the ultimate comfort food dinner. A perfect blend of beef and pork, seasoned to perfection and finished with a sweet and tangy glaze—this meatloaf is anything but ordinary! Keywords: cheese-stuffed meatloaf, stuffed meatloaf recipe, mozzarella meatloaf, juicy meatloaf with filling, comfort food dinner.

---

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 lbs ground beef

• 1/2 lb ground pork (optional, for extra juiciness)

• 1 cup breadcrumbs

• 1/2 cup milk

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 large egg

• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tsp salt

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or cheese of choice)

For the Glaze:

• 1/2 cup ketchup

• 2 tbsp brown sugar

• 1 tbsp mustard

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

• In a large bowl, combine ground beef, pork (if using), breadcrumbs, milk, onion, garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix until just combined.

• Flatten the meat mixture on a sheet of parchment paper into a rectangle about ½ inch thick.

• Sprinkle shredded cheese over the center, leaving about 1 inch from the edges.

• Carefully roll up the meat, jelly-roll style, sealing the edges to keep the cheese inside.

• Transfer the loaf to the prepared baking sheet and shape it as needed.

• In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Spread evenly over the meatloaf.

• Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).

• Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Notes

• Swap in cheddar, provolone, or pepper jack for different cheese vibes.

• Use a loaf pan for a more structured shape, but a baking sheet gives better caramelized edges.

• Add chopped spinach or roasted red peppers with the cheese for bonus flavor.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American