Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs (680g) ground beef
- 0.5 cup (50g) Italian breadcrumbs
- 0.5 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 0.5 cup (120ml) marinara sauce, plus extra for topping
- 0.25 cup (60ml) milk
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 0.5 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1.5 cups (150g) shredded mozzarella cheese or 8 oz (225g) mozzarella sticks
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Equipment
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Large mixing bowl
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Baking sheet
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Parchment paper
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Mixing spoon or spatula
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Oven
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Meat thermometer
Method
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease.
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In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, marinara, milk, onion, garlic, eggs, Italian seasoning, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until incorporated.
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Transfer mixture to the baking sheet and flatten into a 1/2-inch thick rectangle.
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Place mozzarella in a line down the center, leaving space at edges.
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Roll the meat around cheese, sealing edges, shaping into an 8×4-inch loaf.
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Spread thin layer of marinara sauce over the loaf.
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Bake for about 45 minutes.
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Remove from oven, top with more marinara and mozzarella (if desired). Return to oven for 10–15 minutes until bubbly and internal temp reaches 160°F (71°C).
Notes
For extra flavor, use fresh mozzarella instead of pre-shredded. Pair with roasted vegetables or spaghetti for a classic Italian-inspired meal. Leftovers reheat well and can even be sliced into sandwiches.
