Italian-Style STUFFED MEATLOAF (POLPETTONE)

If you’re looking for a hearty and comforting Italian main dish, this Stuffed Meatloaf with Ham and Mozzarella is the perfect recipe.

Known in Italy as Polpettone con Prosciutto Cotto e Mozzarella, this oven-baked meatloaf is juicy, flavorful, and filled with layers of savory ham and melted cheese.

Made with simple pantry ingredients and ready in just over an hour, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights, Sunday family meals, or whenever you want a satisfying homemade dinner. The combination of seasoned ground meat, tender texture, and cheesy center makes every slice irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare with everyday ingredients
• Rich, cheesy filling with mozzarella and ham
• Great for meal prep and leftovers
• Family-friendly and kid-approved
• Delicious served with roasted potatoes or salad

A Traditional Italian Comfort Food

Italian meatloaf recipes are known for their soft texture and flavorful fillings. Unlike classic American meatloaf, this version is rolled and stuffed, creating a beautiful spiral of melted cheese and ham in every slice. It’s rustic, elegant, and perfect for serving guests or family.

Best Side Dishes to Serve With Stuffed Meatloaf

Pair this baked stuffed meatloaf with:

• Crispy roasted potatoes
• Garlic green beans
• Mixed garden salad
• Sautéed spinach
• Warm crusty bread

DOWNLOAD PDF WITH THIS RECIPE HERE:

PolpettoneRecipe

Recipe Details

• Difficulty: Easy
• Cost: Budget-Friendly
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Servings: 4–5 people
• Cooking Method: Oven-Baked
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf

• 14 oz ground veal (or ground beef if preferred)
• 1 large egg
• 2 slices white sandwich bread
• 2–3 tbsp milk
• 6 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
• 2–4 tbsp breadcrumbs (as needed)
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• Pinch of ground nutmeg

For the Filling

• 7 oz sliced cooked ham (prosciutto cotto or deli ham)
• 7 oz mozzarella or provolone cheese, sliced

For Baking

• Extra virgin olive oil
• Splash of dry white wine

Instructions

1. Prepare the Meat Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the ground veal, egg, parsley, grated cheese, salt, pepper, and nutmeg.

Soak the bread slices in milk for a minute, then squeeze out excess liquid and add them to the bowl.

Mix everything together with your hands until smooth and well combined. Add breadcrumbs little by little until the mixture is soft but firm enough to hold shape.

2. Shape and Fill

Place the meat mixture onto a sheet of parchment paper. Flatten it into a rectangle about ½ inch thick.

Layer the sliced ham over the meat, then top with mozzarella slices.

3. Roll the Meatloaf

Using the parchment paper to help, gently roll the meat into a log, sealing the sides well so the filling stays inside.

Wrap the loaf in a fresh sheet of parchment paper like a large candy wrapper.

Drizzle with olive oil and a splash of white wine before sealing.

4. Bake

Preheat oven to 400°F.

Place the wrapped meatloaf in a baking dish and bake for 50 minutes, or until fully cooked through.

5. Rest and Serve

Let it cool for 10 minutes before slicing.

Serve warm with roasted potatoes or a fresh green salad.

Tips

• Swap veal for ground beef, pork, or turkey.
• For extra browning, unwrap during the last 10 minutes of baking.
• Use low-moisture mozzarella for less liquid inside.

Enjoy!

A cozy, cheesy, savory main dish that always impresses. Perfect for family dinners or special weekends.

Nutritional Facts (Approximate Per Serving)

Values are estimates and may vary depending on ingredients used.