Stuffed Meatloaf with Spinach and Feta Melted Swiss Cheese
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!
Ingredients
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.
Instructions
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.