Ultimate Italian Cheesy Meatloaf Surprise
Satisfy your cravings with this Ultimate Italian Cheesy Meatloaf Surprise, where classic comfort food meets an exciting twist! This mouthwatering creation features a savory meat mixture made of ground beef and pork, infused with aromatic garlic, onions, and spices, all wrapped around a gooey layer of melted mozzarella and cheddar cheese. Topped with a rich marinara sauce, each slice bursts with flavors that will transport you straight to Italy. Ideal for family dinners or gatherings, this adaptable recipe allows for various cheese and topping options, offering limitless possibilities to match your mood. Whether you relish it with a dollop of marinara or prefer the zing of salsa, this meatloaf is sure to impress your loved ones, turning any meal into a star-studded affair!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
14
Ingredients
Ingredients
ground meat
2 lbs (a mix of 50% beef and 50% pork)
egg
1 (slightly beaten)
saltines
1/2 cup (crushed (or use crushed croutons))
garlic cloves
2 (peeled and grated)
onion
1 small (peeled and finely minced)
green bell pepper
1/4 cup (finely chopped (optional))
salt
1 teaspoon
fresh ground black pepper
1 teaspoon
seasoning salt
1/2 teaspoon (if desired)
dried herbs
1 pinch (any of your choice)
ketchup
1/4 cup (plus more for topping)
Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoons
mozzarella cheese
2 ounces (sliced)
shredded cheese (cheddar or colby)
3 ounces
Instructions
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Ultimate Italian Cheesy Meatloaf Surprise?
It is a savory meatloaf dish featuring a ground beef and pork mixture wrapped around a gooey layer of melted mozzarella and cheddar cheese, topped with marinara sauce.
What type of meat is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 lbs of ground meat, specifically a 50/50 blend of beef and pork.
What makes the meatloaf 'cheesy'?
It contains a surprise center made of 2 ounces of sliced mozzarella and 3 ounces of shredded cheddar or colby cheese.
What binder is used to hold the meatloaf together?
One slightly beaten egg and 1/2 cup of crushed saltines or crushed croutons are used as the binding agent.
How should the garlic be prepared?
Two garlic cloves should be peeled and grated before being added to the meat mixture.
How should the onion be prepared for the meatloaf?
One small onion should be peeled and finely minced.
Is the green bell pepper a required ingredient?
No, the 1/4 cup of finely chopped green bell pepper is listed as an optional ingredient.
What seasonings are included in the recipe?
The seasoning includes salt, fresh ground black pepper, a pinch of dried herbs, and optional seasoning salt.
What liquids are mixed into the meat?
The recipe includes 1/4 cup of ketchup and 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce.
Can I substitute saltines with something else?
Yes, crushed croutons are a recommended substitute for crushed saltines.
What type of dried herbs should I use?
You can use a pinch of any dried herbs of your choice to infuse the meat with aromatic flavors.
What is the recommended topping for this meatloaf?
A rich marinara sauce is the primary recommendation, though extra ketchup or salsa can also be used.
Is this recipe good for family gatherings?
Yes, it is described as an ideal meal for family dinners or gatherings due to its comforting nature.
How many ingredients are in the Ultimate Italian Cheesy Meatloaf Surprise?
There are a total of 14 ingredients used in this recipe.
Can the recipe be adapted for different tastes?
Yes, it is an adaptable recipe that allows for various cheese and topping options to match your preference.
What is the 'surprise' in the meatloaf?
The 'surprise' is the internal layer of gooey, melted mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
Can I use salsa instead of marinara?
Yes, if you prefer a zingy twist, salsa is suggested as a possible topping substitute.
What type of shredded cheese works best?
The recipe suggests using either cheddar or colby cheese for the shredded portion.
Is this meatloaf considered comfort food?
Yes, it is described as a classic comfort food that meets an exciting twist.
How much Worcestershire sauce is required?
The recipe requires 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce.
What is the preparation for the mozzarella?
The mozzarella cheese should be sliced before being added to the center of the meatloaf.
What is the fat profile of the meat used?
The recipe uses a mix of 50% beef and 50% pork for a balanced flavor and texture.
How much ketchup is added to the meat mixture?
1/4 cup of ketchup is mixed into the meat, with more saved for the topping if desired.
Is the meatloaf spicy?
The standard recipe is savory, but you can add salsa for a zingier, spicier kick.
What size onion is recommended?
One small onion is sufficient for the recipe.
How many garlic cloves are needed?
The recipe calls for two garlic cloves.
Is seasoning salt mandatory?
No, the 1/2 teaspoon of seasoning salt is only added if desired.
Does the recipe use fresh pepper?
Yes, it calls for 1 teaspoon of fresh ground black pepper.
Is this recipe considered a quick meal?
Yes, it is tagged as a quick meal option suitable for busy schedules.
What are the primary flavor influences?
The primary flavor influences are Italian, driven by garlic, aromatic herbs, and marinara sauce.