The image above showcases a unique and fun cooking technique: Meatloaf-Stuffed Spaghetti. Here, uncooked spaghetti is being placed inside a hollowed-out meatloaf. This is a clever way to combine two comfort foods—meatloaf and spaghetti—into a single dish that’s bound to impress both in presentation and taste.
This recipe is a creative dinner option perfect for family gatherings or any time you want to try something new and fun in the kitchen. The spaghetti cooks inside the meatloaf, absorbing all the flavors, making it a deliciously hearty meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- All-in-One Meal: Combining both meat and pasta, this dish makes for a complete meal without the need for extra side dishes.
- Fun and Creative: It’s an impressive and fun recipe that will catch the eye of anyone at the dinner table.
- Flavor-Packed: As the spaghetti cooks inside the meatloaf, it soaks up the juices from the meat, creating an intensely flavorful dish.
Ingredients:
For 4-6 servings, you’ll need:
- 500g (1 lb) ground beef or a mix of beef and pork
- 200g (7 oz) uncooked spaghetti
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional, for topping)
- Aluminum foil (to help shape the meatloaf)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatloaf
Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Mix everything together until well combined.
2. Shape the Meatloaf
Lay a large sheet of aluminum foil on your work surface. Transfer the meat mixture onto the foil and begin shaping it into a large, hollow log (as shown in the image). Make sure the walls of the meatloaf are thick enough to hold the spaghetti in place but not too thick that it won’t cook through. You can form a boat-like shape, leaving a hollow center for the spaghetti.
3. Place the Spaghetti
Grab a handful of uncooked spaghetti and carefully place it inside the hollowed-out center of the meatloaf, pressing it in gently so that the spaghetti sits securely inside.
4. Cover with Marinara Sauce
Once the spaghetti is in place, pour 1 cup of marinara sauce over the top of the meatloaf and spaghetti. The sauce will help cook the spaghetti and add flavor to the dish. Reserve the remaining marinara sauce for later.
5. Wrap and Bake
Fold the aluminum foil around the meatloaf, covering it loosely but sealing the edges to trap moisture. Place the foil-wrapped meatloaf on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 40-50 minutes.
6. Add More Sauce and Cheese
After 40-50 minutes, remove the meatloaf from the oven, carefully unwrap the foil, and check if the spaghetti has softened. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top of the meatloaf and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese if you’re using it. Return the meatloaf to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve
Once the meatloaf is fully cooked and the cheese is golden, remove it from the oven and allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with a side of extra marinara sauce and enjoy!
Cook’s Notes:
- Vegetable Add-Ins: Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini to the meatloaf mixture for extra nutrients and texture.
- Spaghetti Variations: If you prefer, you can use whole wheat, gluten-free, or any other type of spaghetti to suit your dietary needs.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the meatloaf in advance and keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
FAQ:
Q: Can I use different types of pasta?
A: Yes! You can substitute the spaghetti with fettuccine, linguine, or any other long pasta. However, the cooking time may vary slightly, so be sure to check the pasta’s doneness before serving.
Q: What should I serve with this dish?
A: This all-in-one meal pairs well with a green salad, garlic bread, or even a side of roasted vegetables for a complete and balanced dinner.
Q: Can I make this dish gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! You can use gluten-free pasta and gluten-free breadcrumbs to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Final Thoughts
This Meatloaf-Stuffed Spaghetti recipe is a fun and creative twist on two beloved comfort foods. With juicy, flavorful meatloaf surrounding spaghetti that’s cooked in marinara sauce, this dish is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. It’s a unique presentation that adds excitement to the table while keeping all the classic flavors intact.
Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or looking for a crowd-pleasing recipe, this dish delivers on both taste and creativity. So why not give it a try and enjoy this hearty, comforting meal?
