This oven-baked meatloaf is a hearty, flavorful dish perfect for family dinners or meal prepping. Made with tender ground beef, aromatic spices, and a rich vegetable topping, this meatloaf is juicy, satisfying, and packed with layers of flavor. The addition of cheese and bread makes it moist and tender, while the vegetable topping adds a delightful texture and sweetness.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Meatloaf:
- 3 slices of bread
- 100 ml (3.4 oz) milk
- 1 kg (35 oz) ground beef
- 150 g (5.3 oz) cheese, grated
- 1.5 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried garlic
- 1/3 tsp ground coriander
- A pinch of nutmeg
- 3 eggs
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 20 g (0.7 oz) butter
For the Vegetable Topping:
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 head of young cabbage, finely shredded
- Salt, to taste
- 1 carrot, grated
- 2 onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tsp sugar
- 2 tbsp vinegar
- 1-2 tbsp vegetable oil
- A little water (for sautéing)
- 3 tbsp tomato sauce
Directions:
Prepare the Meatloaf:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Soak the bread slices in milk for 5 minutes, then mash them into a smooth paste.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, soaked bread, grated cheese, salt, black pepper, dried garlic, coriander, nutmeg, eggs, and green onions. Mix until well combined.
- Grease a loaf pan or baking dish with butter. Transfer the meat mixture into the pan and press it down evenly.
Prepare the Vegetable Topping:
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and grated carrot, sautéing for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Add the shredded cabbage and a pinch of salt. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- In a separate skillet, sauté the sliced onions with sugar until caramelized (about 7-8 minutes). Add vinegar and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
- Combine the sautéed vegetables and caramelized onions. Add a little water and tomato sauce, mixing well. Let the mixture simmer for 3-4 minutes.
Assemble and Bake:
- Spread the vegetable topping evenly over the meatloaf.
- Cover the pan with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 70°C/160°F).
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
5 Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a classic meal.
- Pair with a fresh garden salad and crusty bread.
- Enjoy alongside roasted sweet potatoes or parsnips.
- Serve with a side of rice pilaf or quinoa for a hearty option.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of ketchup for extra flavor.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure the bread is fully soaked in milk for a softer meatloaf texture.
- Use a mix of ground beef and ground pork for added flavor and juiciness.
- To prevent dryness, avoid overmixing the meat mixture.
- Use parchment paper to line the loaf pan for easier removal.
- Let the meatloaf rest before slicing to retain its shape and juices.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Ground beef is a great source of protein and iron.
- Carrots and cabbage provide vitamins A and C, along with fiber.
- Cheese adds calcium and protein for strong bones.
Dietary Information:
- Contains gluten (from the bread) and dairy.
- Can be made gluten-free by substituting bread with gluten-free bread or oats.
- To make dairy-free, replace milk and cheese with plant-based alternatives.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: 370
- Protein: 25 g
- Carbs: 15 g
- Fat: 23 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) or in the microwave until warmed through.
- Freeze slices individually for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- It’s a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for family meals.
- The combination of juicy meatloaf and flavorful vegetable topping is irresistible.
- Easy to customize with different spices, herbs, or cheese varieties.
- A great way to incorporate vegetables into a main course.
Conclusion:
This Oven-Baked Meatloaf with Vegetables is the perfect blend of hearty, flavorful, and wholesome. With its juicy meat base and rich vegetable topping, it’s a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether served for dinner or meal-prepped for the week, this meatloaf will quickly become a household favorite.
10 Frequently Asked Questions with Answers:
- Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey works well as a leaner alternative. - Can I skip the bread?
Bread helps bind the meatloaf and keeps it moist, but you can use oats or breadcrumbs as a substitute. - What cheese works best?
Cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend of both are great options. - Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free bread or oats in place of regular bread. - How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 70°C (160°F). - Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the meatloaf and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. - What can I use instead of tomato sauce?
Ketchup, marinara sauce, or barbecue sauce work as substitutes. - Can I freeze this meatloaf?
Yes, bake the meatloaf first, let it cool, and then freeze it in slices for up to 2 months. - What vegetables can I add?
You can add bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini to the vegetable topping for variety. - How do I prevent the meatloaf from falling apart?
Ensure the mixture is well-mixed and compact, and let it rest after baking to firm up.