Cheese-Stuffed Meat Loaf
Cheese-stuffed meat loaf offers a savory blend of seasoned ground beef and melty cheese, perfect for hearty family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Mix ground beef, chopped onion, bread crumbs, salt, pepper, and one can of tomato sauce in a large bowl.
- Pat half of the meat mixture into a loaf pan.
- Place cheese slices down the center of the meat mixture.
- Cover the cheese with the remaining meat mixture, pressing the edges together to seal.
- Spread the second can of tomato sauce over the top of the meat loaf.
- Bake for 1 hour or until cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, try mixing in some chopped garlic or Italian herbs into the meat mixture. If you prefer a different cheese, mozzarella or cheddar can work well as substitutes. To ensure a moist meat loaf, avoid overmixing the meat and handle it gently. For a quick twist, you can also incorporate ingredients from American recipes like chopped bell peppers or mushrooms.
Serving Suggestions
This cheese-stuffed meat loaf pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad. For a comforting meal, serve it alongside buttered corn or steamed vegetables. You can also slice it for sandwiches the next day, making it a great option for lunch. If you're looking for more hearty options, explore dishes like Souper Meat'N Potatoes Pie.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. Consider adding a splash of tomato sauce on top before reheating to keep the meat loaf moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese-Stuffed Meat Loaf contains roughly 488 calories, with 10g protein, 66g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (32% of the Daily Value) and protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1904mg per serving (83% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Just be aware that the flavor and texture may differ slightly, so consider adding more seasoning or moisture to compensate for the leaner meat.
How do I know when the meat loaf is fully cooked?
The best way to check for doneness is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the center of the meat loaf; it should read at least 160°F. If you don’t have a thermometer, ensure the meat is no longer pink inside and the juices run clear.
Can I freeze cheese-stuffed meat loaf?
Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked meat loaf wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for up to 3 months. To cook from frozen, bake it at 350°F for about 1.5 hours or until fully cooked. Alternatively, you can freeze leftovers for up to 2 months.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).