Ingredients:
– 2 pounds ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup shredded cheese of your choice (cheddar, mozzarella, or a combination)
– 1/2 cup finely chopped spinach (optional)
– 1/4 cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
– 1/4 cup diced bell peppers (optional)
– 1/4 cup diced tomatoes (optional)
Directions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with cooking spray or oil.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands to mix all the ingredients thoroughly.
3. Once the mixture is well combined, divide it into two equal parts. Take one portion and press it onto the bottom of the baking dish, forming a rectangular shape.
4. Now it’s time to add the stuffing. Layer the shredded cheese on top of the meat mixture, leaving a small border around the edges. If desired, you can also add other fillings like chopped spinach, sliced mushrooms, diced bell peppers, or diced tomatoes. Remember not to overstuff the meatloaf, as it may be difficult to roll.
5. Take the remaining portion of the meat mixture and flatten it into a rectangle of the same size as the one on the bottom. Gently place it on top of the stuffing.
6. Carefully seal the edges of the meatloaf by pressing them together with your fingers. You want to make sure the stuffing stays inside during the cooking process.
7. Place the assembled stuffed meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). If you have a meat thermometer, it’s a good idea to use it to check the doneness.
8. Once , remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute, making it easier to slice.
9. To serve, slice the stuffed meatloaf into thick portions and garnish with your favorite sauce or gravy. Mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables make excellent side dishes to complement the dish.
In conclusion, cooking a stuffed meatloaf is a flavorful and creative way to elevate a classic comfort food. By following the steps outlined in this article, you’ll be able to create a delicious and impressive dish that will surely leave your guests satisfied. So, why wait? Gather the ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy a mouthwatering stuffed meatloaf that will have everyone asking for your recipe.