Stuffed Meatloaf with Veggies
Highlighted under: Homestyle Meals
Making stuffed meatloaf with veggies has quickly become one of my favorite family meals. I love how versatile it is; you can use whatever veggies you have on hand. The process is rewarding as I experience the scents blending together while it cooks. With each delightful slice, I unveil a flavorful filling that always surprises the family. If you’re looking for a hearty dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table, this recipe is just what you need!
When I first decided to make stuffed meatloaf, I wasn't sure how it would turn out. I experimented with different vegetables and ended up using spinach, bell peppers, and onions for a vibrant filling. As it baked, the aromas filled my kitchen, creating an inviting ambiance.
The secret I discovered is in the seasoning of the veggie filling, which elevates the meatloaf to a whole new level. Using fresh herbs made all the difference, and my family couldn't get enough of the flavor! I can’t wait for you to try it.
Reasons You'll Love This Recipe
- Hearty and satisfying with a hidden veggie surprise
- Perfect for meal prep – great leftovers for lunch
- Customizable with your favorite veggies or cheeses
Understanding the Ingredients
The choice of meat is crucial for a flavorful stuffed meatloaf. Blending ground beef and ground pork balances richness and tenderness, providing a savory base that holds the filling well. If you prefer a leaner option, turkey can be substituted for either meat; however, keep in mind it might require a bit more seasoning to enhance the flavor.
The breadcrumbs in this recipe not only help bind the meatloaf but also absorb moisture, ensuring a juicy texture. Using fresh breadcrumbs from a loaf of bread can enhance flavor and moisture even more, while seasoned breadcrumbs add an additional layer of flavor. If gluten-free is a priority, swapping breadcrumbs for ground oats or a gluten-free blend works seamlessly.
Techniques for Success
When preparing the filling, pay attention to the cooking time of the vegetables. Sautéing them until softened, around 5–7 minutes, enhances their natural flavors and ensures they meld beautifully with the cheese. If you're in a hurry, pre-packaged frozen vegetables can substitute fresh; just be sure to drain excess moisture to prevent a soggy filling.
Forming the meatloaf correctly is key to achieving that perfect balance of meat to filling. Shape the meat mixture evenly so it cooks uniformly; aim for a thickness of about 1 to 1.5 inches. Folding the edges over the filling snugly ensures a delightful surprise with every slice while also preventing it from leaking during baking.
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 lb ground pork
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
For the Filling
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup onion, diced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs
For Topping
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
Instructions
Follow these steps for a delicious stuffed meatloaf!
Prepare the Filling
In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the spinach, bell pepper, and onion until softened. Remove from heat, mix in the mozzarella and Italian herbs, and set aside.
Mix the Meatloaf
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until well blended.
Form the Meatloaf
On a piece of parchment paper, shape the meat mixture into a rectangular layer. Spoon the filling evenly down the center of the meat and fold edges over to enclose the filling. Carefully transfer to a baking dish.
Add Topping
Mix ketchup and brown sugar in a small bowl and spread over the top of the meatloaf.
Bake
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 60 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Pro Tips
- To enhance flavors even more, try adding freshly chopped herbs to the meat mixture. You can include things like parsley or thyme for an extra kick.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Stuffed meatloaf is a fantastic make-ahead dish; you can prepare it up to a day in advance and store it uncooked in the refrigerator. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent any odors from seeping in. On baking day, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
If you find yourself with leftovers, they can be deliciously repurposed. Store slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, or freeze for longer storage. I recommend wrapping slices individually in foil before freezing for easy reheating. When reheating, gentle warming in the oven helps maintain the moisture and texture.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving stuffed meatloaf, sides play a significant role. Pairing it with a fresh green salad or roasted seasonal vegetables can brighten the meal. Mashed potatoes or creamy polenta also make excellent choices, complementing the hearty nature of the meatloaf wonderfully.
For a twist, consider serving it with a tangy sauce, such as chimichurri or a zesty mustard glaze, to enhance the flavors. You can even slice it thin and serve it on a bun for a delicious meatloaf sandwich, perfect for lunch the next day.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey can be used for a leaner option, but be sure to adjust the cooking time as necessary.
→ What vegetables work best for the filling?
You can use a variety of vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or carrots. Just ensure they are diced small enough to cook through.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
→ Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf and filling, assemble it, and refrigerate it overnight before baking.
Stuffed Meatloaf with Veggies
Making stuffed meatloaf with veggies has quickly become one of my favorite family meals. I love how versatile it is; you can use whatever veggies you have on hand. The process is rewarding as I experience the scents blending together while it cooks. With each delightful slice, I unveil a flavorful filling that always surprises the family. If you’re looking for a hearty dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table, this recipe is just what you need!
Created by: Emma Johnson
Recipe Type: Homestyle Meals
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Meatloaf
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 lb ground pork
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
For the Filling
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup onion, diced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs
For Topping
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
How-To Steps
In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the spinach, bell pepper, and onion until softened. Remove from heat, mix in the mozzarella and Italian herbs, and set aside.
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until well blended.
On a piece of parchment paper, shape the meat mixture into a rectangular layer. Spoon the filling evenly down the center of the meat and fold edges over to enclose the filling. Carefully transfer to a baking dish.
Mix ketchup and brown sugar in a small bowl and spread over the top of the meatloaf.
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 60 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Extra Tips
- To enhance flavors even more, try adding freshly chopped herbs to the meat mixture. You can include things like parsley or thyme for an extra kick.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Total Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 18g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 30g