Cabbage Loaf
A hearty meatloaf packed with shredded cabbage, bacon, and cheese, offering savory flavors and satisfying texture, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together thoroughly.
- Pour mixture into a 9 x 5 x 3-inch loaf baking pan.
- Place bacon strips on top.
- Bake for 1 1/2 hours at 350°F.
- After 45 minutes, drain excess bacon grease if necessary.
- During the last 15 minutes, spread tomato paste on top.
- Turn oven off and let it sit for 15 minutes.
- Add cheese slices on top and allow them to melt before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using ground turkey or pork as a substitute for ground beef. You can also experiment with different cheeses, like cheddar or mozzarella, instead of American cheese. If you prefer a bit of heat, adding red pepper flakes can elevate the dish. Make sure to chop the cabbage finely for an even texture, similar to how you'd prepare for Beef Patties Parmesan.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Cabbage Loaf with a side of mashed potatoes or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. It pairs well with crusty bread to soak up the tomato paste. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside Red Top Chili for a comforting dinner experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in the microwave for a minute or two, or warm them in the oven at 350°F until heated through. This dish can also be frozen; just wrap tightly and it should last for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cabbage Loaf contains roughly 331 calories, with 16g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (36% of the Daily Value), protein (33% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 893mg per serving (39% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Cabbage Loaf mixture a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake it the next day. This can enhance the flavors as they meld together. Just remember to adjust the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
What can I use instead of tomato paste?
If you don't have tomato paste, you can substitute it with a mix of canned crushed tomatoes and a bit of sugar to mimic the sweetness and thickness. Alternatively, using a homemade tomato sauce can also work. Just be mindful of the moisture content, as it may affect the loaf's firmness.
Is it possible to make this a vegetarian dish?
Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef with a combination of lentils and finely chopped vegetables, or use a meat substitute like mushrooms and beans. Make sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly to maintain flavor. This vegetarian version will still be hearty and satisfying.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).