Cheddar-Stuffed Meatloaf
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
– 1 lb ground pork
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 2 teaspoons salt
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
– 1/2 cup ketchup (for topping)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, eggs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and dried herbs. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
3. Form the Meatloaf: On a large piece of parchment paper or a clean surface, shape half of the meat mixture into a rectangle, about 1-inch thick.
4. Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the meat rectangle, leaving about an inch around the edges.
5. Roll It Up: Carefully lift the edges of the parchment paper and roll the meat mixture over the cheese, tucking in the sides as you go. Make sure the cheese is fully encased in the meatloaf.
6. Place in Baking Dish: Transfer the rolled meatloaf seam-side down into a loaf pan or onto a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
7. Top with Ketchup: Spread the ketchup evenly over the top of the meatloaf for added flavor and moisture.
8. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 60-75 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C) and the outside is golden brown.
9. Rest and Serve: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps retain the juices and makes for easier slicing.
10. Enjoy: Serve the cheddar-stuffed meatloaf warm with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes | Servings: 6-8
