There’s nothing quite like a homemade meatloaf—comforting, hearty, and satisfying! Today, I’m sharing my stuffed meatloaf recipe with a twist: a delicious filling of spinach, tangy feta, and melty Swiss cheese. It’s the perfect family meal that packs flavor in every bite, and I can’t wait for you to try it. Whether you’re a meatloaf fan or looking to elevate your dinner game, this stuffed version is sure to become a favorite!
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Why You’ll Love This Stuffed Meatloaf
Versatile, Flavorful, and Oh-So-Comforting!
This stuffed meatloaf takes a classic comfort dish and makes it even better. Imagine cutting into a juicy, savory meatloaf only to discover a gooey, cheesy center filled with spinach and feta—yum! It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner, and you can easily customize the filling to suit your tastes. Plus, the smell when this bakes in the oven? Absolutely irresistible!
Benefits of This Recipe
- High Protein: A hearty and balanced meal packed with protein.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make it ahead and enjoy leftovers for lunch.
- Family-Friendly: It’s a fun way to sneak in some veggies with all the cheesy goodness.
Ingredients for Stuffed Meatloaf
Let’s gather our ingredients! This recipe uses simple, easy-to-find items that come together beautifully:
- Ground Beef: 1 ½ lbs (use lean for a healthier option)
- Breadcrumbs: 1 cup (helps bind the meatloaf together)
- Large Egg: 1 (holds everything together)
- Spinach: 1 cup, cooked and chopped (use fresh or frozen)
- Feta Cheese: ½ cup, crumbled (adds a tangy kick)
- Swiss Cheese: 1 cup, shredded (for that melty, cheesy center)
- Onion: 1 small, finely chopped (adds flavor and moisture)
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced (because garlic makes everything better!)
- Worcestershire Sauce: 1 tablespoon (for depth of flavor)
- Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon (adds a touch of herbal goodness)
- Salt & Pepper: 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper (season to taste)
- Ketchup: ½ cup (classic topping for meatloaf)
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Knife and cutting board
- Oven-safe thermometer (optional, but recommended)
Possible Ingredient Additions and Substitutions
- Cheese Swap: Try mozzarella or provolone for a different cheesy flavor.
- Meat Options: Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of beef for a leaner version.
- Herbs: Fresh parsley or basil can add a burst of freshness.
- Extra Veggies: Add chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to the filling for an extra veggie boost.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Stuffed Meatloaf
1. Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This gives the meatloaf time to cook through evenly while keeping it moist.
2. Prepare the Meat Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until it’s well combined but don’t overwork the meat (it can make the meatloaf tough).
3. Prepare the Filling
In a separate bowl, mix together the cooked spinach and crumbled feta cheese. This is going to be the flavorful, cheesy surprise inside your meatloaf!
4. Form the Meatloaf
On a parchment-lined baking sheet, shape half of the meat mixture into a rectangle. Spread the spinach and feta filling over this base layer, and then sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese on top. Cover with the remaining meat mixture, shaping it into a loaf and sealing the edges well to keep all that cheesy goodness inside.
5. Top with Ketchup
Spread ketchup over the top of the meatloaf for that classic tangy glaze.
6. Bake
Bake in your preheated oven for 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). If you have a thermometer, this is a great time to use it to ensure your meatloaf is cooked perfectly.
7. Rest and Serve
Once done, let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping each slice tender and juicy.
What to Serve with Stuffed Meatloaf
Pair your stuffed meatloaf with some mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or a fresh garden salad for a balanced and satisfying meal. You could also serve it with roasted vegetables or a side of garlic bread to soak up all those delicious juices.
Tips for Making the Best Stuffed Meatloaf
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the meat mixture, mix just until everything is incorporated to avoid a dense meatloaf.
- Seal the Edges: Make sure the meatloaf is well-sealed around the edges to keep the cheese and filling from leaking out during baking.
- Rest Time Is Key: Letting it rest before slicing ensures the meatloaf stays moist and flavorful.
Storage Instructions
This stuffed meatloaf is perfect for leftovers! Store any remaining slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave or warm it in the oven at 300°F until heated through. You can also freeze individual slices for a quick, ready-made meal—just wrap each slice in foil and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the meatloaf a day ahead and keep it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the preheated oven. You may need to add an extra 5-10 minutes of baking time since it will be cold.
What’s the best way to cook the spinach?
If using fresh spinach, sauté it with a little olive oil until wilted, then chop. For frozen spinach, thaw it and squeeze out any excess moisture before chopping and mixing with the feta.
Can I skip the cheese?
The cheese adds a creamy, melty texture, but if you prefer a dairy-free option, you can skip it and add more veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for a hearty filling.
Conclusion
This stuffed meatloaf with spinach, feta, and melted Swiss cheese is an elevated take on a beloved classic. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any dinner table. Plus, the versatility of this recipe means you can customize it to suit your family’s tastes—anything but boring!
So, why not give it a try tonight? Don’t forget to share your version and tag me on Pinterest—I’d love to see your creations!
Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fat: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
Looking for more comforting recipes like this one? Check out my Peach Cobbler, Baked Parmesan Chicken, and Spaghetti Carbonara for more family-friendly favorites. Happy cooking! 🍽️
