Servings: 6-8
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
A twist on the classic meatloaf, this stuffed version is filled with a savory mixture of mushrooms, onions, spinach, and other vegetables. The filling adds moisture, flavor, and an extra layer of texture, making it a standout dish for family dinners or entertaining guests. The recipe also ensures you get a complete meal with protein and vegetables all in one.
Ingredients:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (80% lean)
- 1/2 pound ground pork (optional, but it adds extra moisture)
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use Italian breadcrumbs for added flavor)
- 1/4 cup milk (or use cream for a richer texture)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (or yellow mustard)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or Italian seasoning)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or more to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
For the Mushroom and Vegetable Filling:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing)
- 2 cups mushrooms, finely chopped (white button, cremini, or portobello work well)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 medium carrot, peeled and finely diced
- 1 celery stalk, finely diced
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped (or substitute with kale or Swiss chard)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (or more to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
For the Topping:
- 1/4 cup ketchup (or barbecue sauce)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional, for a tangy kick)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Mushroom and Vegetable Filling
- Sauté the Vegetables:
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, carrot, and celery, cooking for about 5-7 minutes until they begin to soften. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
Add the mushrooms and cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing them to release their moisture and become tender.
Once the vegetables are cooked, add the spinach and cook for another 2 minutes until wilted. - Season the Filling:
Add 1/2 teaspoon thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine, then remove the skillet from heat and set the filling aside to cool.
Step 2: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). - Combine the Meatloaf Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, thyme, salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
Step 3: Assemble the Stuffed Meatloaf
- Shape the Meatloaf:
On a large sheet of parchment paper or a clean surface, shape the meat mixture into a large rectangle, about 10×12 inches. Make sure the edges are even to ensure a uniform roll. - Add the Filling:
Spread the cooled mushroom and vegetable filling evenly over the center of the meatloaf, leaving about a 1-inch border around the edges. If you like, you can also sprinkle some grated Parmesan over the filling for extra flavor. - Roll the Meatloaf:
Carefully lift the edges of the parchment paper or use your hands to gently roll the meatloaf into a log, making sure the filling stays inside. Pinch the edges of the meat to seal it, ensuring the filling doesn’t leak out during cooking. - Transfer to a Baking Sheet:
Place the stuffed meatloaf seam-side down on a rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. This will make cleanup easier and allow any juices to drain away.
Step 4: Bake the Meatloaf
- Bake the Meatloaf:
Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. After that time, the meatloaf should be browned on the outside and nearly cooked through. - Prepare the Topping:
While the meatloaf is baking, prepare the topping by mixing ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard (if using) in a small bowl. This mixture adds a tangy-sweet glaze that will caramelize on top of the meatloaf as it bakes. - Glaze the Meatloaf:
After the meatloaf has baked for 45 minutes, remove it from the oven and spread the topping evenly over the top. Return the meatloaf to the oven and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C), and the glaze is bubbly and caramelized.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
- Rest the Meatloaf:
Once the meatloaf is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute and prevents the meatloaf from falling apart when cut. - Serve:
Slice the meatloaf into thick slices and serve with your favorite side dishes, like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad. Garnish with fresh parsley for added color and flavor.
Notes & Tips:
- Choose your meat: You can experiment with different meats for the meatloaf. Ground turkey or chicken can be used for a leaner version, though it may lack some of the moisture and richness that beef and pork provide.
- Vegetable variations: Feel free to swap out or add other vegetables to the filling, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or peas. Just make sure they’re finely chopped to ensure they cook evenly.
- Make-ahead: This stuffed meatloaf can be made ahead of time. Assemble the meatloaf, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to bring it to room temperature before baking.
- Freezing: You can also freeze the unbaked stuffed meatloaf for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and when ready to cook, bake it directly from frozen, adding an extra 15-20 minutes to the baking time.
- Leftovers: Leftover meatloaf can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. It’s delicious as leftovers and can be used in sandwiches, wraps, or even pasta dishes.
Conclusion:
This Stuffed Meatloaf with Mushroom and Vegetable Filling is a comforting, hearty meal that brings new life to the classic meatloaf. The savory vegetable filling provides added moisture and flavor, making each bite a delightful combination of juicy meat and tender, flavorful vegetables. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or making dinner for the family, this recipe is sure to impress.

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