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For the base of the meatloaf, I use a mix of ground beef and ground turkey. Each type brings its own unique flavor and texture. The beef adds richness, while the turkey keeps it lean. This combination makes for a well-rounded meatloaf that is both juicy and satisfying. You will need: - 1 lb ground beef - 1 lb ground turkey Cheese is a star in this recipe! I use both Parmesan and mozzarella. Parmesan gives a sharp taste and adds depth to the meat. Mozzarella melts beautifully and creates a gooey center. This blend ensures a delicious bite every time. You will need: - ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese To enhance the taste, I add a few key flavorings. Pesto brings a fresh, herbaceous note, while garlic adds warmth. Dried Italian herbs provide a classic flavor profile. The breadcrumbs help bind everything together, and the egg adds moisture. Here’s the complete list: - ½ cup pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade) - 1 garlic clove, minced - 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 cup breadcrumbs - 1 large egg - 1 tablespoon olive oil {{ingredient_image_1}} Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). A warm oven cooks the meatloaf evenly. This step is key for a nice crust. In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef and turkey. Add the breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to blend everything well. You want a uniform mix for even cooking. On a lined baking sheet, shape half of the meat mixture into a rectangle, about 1 inch thick. This is your base. Spread pesto sauce evenly over the meat. Next, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top. This adds a creamy, rich flavor. Now, take the remaining meat mixture and cover the cheese. Gently press down to seal it. Form it into a loaf shape. This keeps all the goodness inside. Drizzle olive oil over the top of the meatloaf. This helps keep it moist while baking. Place it in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check if it hits 160°F (70°C). Once done, let it rest for about 10 minutes. This helps the juices stay in. Cut it into slices and serve warm. Pair it with roasted veggies or mashed potatoes for a tasty meal. Enjoy! To keep your meatloaf moist, use a mix of ground beef and turkey. The beef adds flavor, while the turkey keeps it light. Adding breadcrumbs helps too. They soak up moisture and keep the meatloaf tender. Don’t skip the olive oil drizzle before baking. It adds richness and helps lock in the juices. When you shape the meatloaf, make sure to flatten it evenly. This helps the stuffing spread well. After spreading the pesto, sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly. This way, every bite has that creamy goodness. Gently press the top layer of meat over the cheese to seal it in. This step keeps the flavors from escaping during baking. For a complete meal, serve your meatloaf with roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes. The bright colors of the veggies will make your plate pop. For a nice touch, drizzle extra pesto over the top before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and flavor. Serve it on a large platter, and let everyone dig in! Pro Tips Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs can significantly enhance the flavor of your meatloaf. Consider adding chopped fresh basil or parsley to complement the pesto. Experiment with Fillings: Don’t hesitate to get creative with your stuffing! Try adding sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for an extra burst of flavor. Check for Doneness: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your meatloaf is cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (70°C) for safe consumption. Rest Before Slicing: Allowing the meatloaf to rest helps retain its juices, ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful. Aim for at least 10 minutes of resting time. {{image_2}} You can swap mozzarella for other cheeses. Try using provolone for a sharper taste. Cheddar adds a nice kick, while gouda gives a rich flavor. If you want something creamier, consider using ricotta. Each cheese brings its own charm to the dish. Mix and match to find your favorite combo. Ground beef is classic, but you can mix it up! Ground pork adds sweetness. Ground chicken or turkey keeps it light and healthy. You can even use a blend of meats for more flavor. Each option changes the taste and texture. Don’t hesitate to experiment! Adding veggies can boost flavor and health. Chopped bell peppers or onions bring sweetness. Grated carrots add moisture and nutrition. Spinach or kale give a fresh touch. You can sauté them first for a deeper taste. Mixing in veggies keeps the meatloaf juicy and colorful! To store leftovers, let the meatloaf cool first. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. You can also place it in an airtight container. This keeps the meatloaf fresh for about three to four days in the fridge. Always label with the date to track how long it’s been stored. When you're ready to enjoy the leftover meatloaf, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the slices in a baking dish and cover with foil to keep them moist. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also use a microwave. Just heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking. If you want to freeze the meatloaf, it’s best to do this before cooking. Shape the meatloaf and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. Label it with the date. Freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to cook, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then bake as directed. If you have leftover cooked meatloaf, you can freeze slices. Just make sure they are wrapped well. Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf in advance. Mix the ingredients, shape it, and place it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. This makes it easy to bake later. Just remember to cover it with plastic wrap to keep it fresh. The best way to reheat meatloaf is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Place the sliced meatloaf in a baking dish, add a splash of broth or water, and cover with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warm. This keeps the meatloaf moist and tasty. Absolutely! Homemade pesto is a great choice. It gives your meatloaf a fresh and vibrant flavor. Just use the same amount as you would with store-bought pesto. Plus, you can adjust the flavors to your liking. This blog post covered how to make a tasty meatloaf. We discussed ingredients like ground meats, cheese options, and extra flavors. I shared step-by-step instructions on baking and serving your meatloaf. Tips included keeping it moist and perfecting your stuffing technique. We explored fun variations, storage tips, and answered common questions. By trying these methods, you can create a meatloaf that everyone will love. Happy cooking!

Pesto Mozzarella Stuffed Meatloaf

A delicious meatloaf stuffed with pesto and mozzarella cheese, perfect for a hearty meal.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 0.5 cup pesto sauce
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • In a large bowl, combine the ground beef and turkey. Add breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
  • On a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, shape half of the meat mixture into a rectangle, about 1 inch thick.
  • Spread the pesto sauce evenly over the meat layer. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the pesto.
  • Take the remaining meat mixture and place it over the cheese, gently pressing down to seal it. Shape it into a loaf shape.
  • Drizzle olive oil over the top of the meatloaf to keep it moist. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
  • Allow the meatloaf to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This will help retain the juices.
  • Slice the meatloaf and serve warm. Pair with a side of roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

Notes

Serve on a large platter, drizzled with some extra pesto and garnished with fresh basil leaves.
Keyword meatloaf, mozzarella, pesto, stuffed