This hearty stuffed meatloaf is a showstopper, featuring a flavorful ground beef mixture filled with creamy spinach, mushrooms, and cheese. Paired with golden, crispy potatoes and a refreshing side salad, it’s the ultimate comfort meal. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe is as delicious as it is satisfying.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
- Ground beef: 2 pounds (900 g)
- Eggs: 2 large
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Black pepper: 1 teaspoon
- Paprika: 1 teaspoon
- Toast bread: 4 slices, crusts removed
- Milk: 1 cup (200 ml)
- Onion: 1, grated
- Fresh parsley: 1 bunch, finely chopped
For the Filling:
- Butter: 2 tablespoons (30 g)
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Spinach: 5 ounces (150 g), finely chopped
- Mushrooms: 7, finely chopped
- Cheddar cheese: 5 ounces (150 g), grated
- Eggs: 2 large
- Salt: To taste
- Black pepper: To taste
For the Potatoes:
- Potatoes: 5, sliced into wedges
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Black pepper: 1 teaspoon
- Paprika: 1 teaspoon
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- Parmesan cheese: 2 ounces (60 g), grated
For the Salad:
- Salad greens: 7 ounces (200 g)
- Cherry tomatoes: 7 ounces (200 g), quartered
- Cucumber: 1, chopped
- Yellow bell pepper: 1, chopped
- Mozzarella cheese: 4 ounces (120 g), torn into chunks
For the Dressing:
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- Lemon juice: 1 tablespoon
- Mustard: 1 teaspoon
- Salt: ½ teaspoon
- Black pepper: ½ teaspoon
Directions
- Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, eggs, salt, black pepper, and paprika.
- Soak the bread in milk, mash it with a fork, and mix it into the beef mixture.
- Add grated onion and chopped parsley. Mix gently until combined.
- Prepare the Filling:
- Heat butter in a pan over medium heat. Sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Add spinach and cook until wilted. Stir in mushrooms and cook until soft.
- Remove from heat and transfer to a bowl. Add grated cheddar, eggs, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Assemble the Meatloaf:
- Preheat the oven to 360°F (180°C). Line a loaf pan with parchment paper.
- Press half of the meat mixture into the pan, creating a well in the center.
- Spoon the filling into the well and spread it evenly.
- Cover with the remaining meat mixture, pressing to seal.
- Prepare the Potatoes:
- In a bowl, combine potato wedges with salt, black pepper, paprika, olive oil, and grated Parmesan. Toss to coat.
- Spread potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Bake:
- Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for 1 hour.
- After 15 minutes, add the potatoes to the oven and bake for 45 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Prepare the Salad:
- In a large bowl, combine salad greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and bell pepper.
- Add mozzarella chunks.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, mustard, salt, and pepper. Drizzle over the salad and toss gently.
- Serve:
- Let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Plate slices of meatloaf alongside crispy potatoes and salad.
Serving Suggestions
- Add a side of garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Serve with a dollop of sour cream or gravy for extra richness.
Cooking Tips
- Avoid overmixing the meatloaf mixture to keep it tender.
- Use fresh spinach for the filling for a vibrant flavor and color.
- Line the loaf pan to make it easy to lift out the meatloaf.
Nutritional Benefits
- High in protein from beef, eggs, and cheese.
- Spinach and salad vegetables add vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
- Potatoes provide carbohydrates for energy.
Dietary Information
- Calories per serving: 580
- Protein: 34 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fat: 30 g
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze individual slices of meatloaf and potatoes for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Combines hearty, creamy, and fresh flavors in one meal.
- Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.
- Easy to prepare with a balance of protein, carbs, and veggies.
- Versatile and customizable with your favorite herbs and spices.
Conclusion
This Stuffed Meatloaf with Creamy Spinach Filling and Crispy Potatoes is the ultimate comfort meal. With juicy meat, a flavorful filling, and perfectly roasted potatoes, it’s a dish that will impress family and friends. Pair it with a refreshing salad for a well-rounded meal that’s as delicious as it is satisfying. Try it today and elevate your dinner table with this flavorful creation!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey works well as a leaner alternative. - Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the meatloaf and potatoes, then refrigerate overnight. Bake when ready. - What cheese works best for the filling?
Cheddar, mozzarella, or Gruyère are excellent options. - Can I add more vegetables to the filling?
Yes, try adding bell peppers, zucchini, or shredded carrots. - How do I prevent the meatloaf from drying out?
Use eggs and soaked bread for moisture, and avoid overbaking. - Can I use pre-cooked potatoes?
No, raw potatoes roast best for this recipe. - How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat meatloaf and potatoes in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes. - Can I freeze the meatloaf before baking?
Yes, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. - What herbs work well in the meatloaf?
Parsley, thyme, oregano, or basil add great flavor. - Can I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free bread and breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
Enjoy creating and sharing this delicious, hearty meal with your loved ones! 😊