Cheese Meat Roll
A hearty cheese-stuffed meat roll with savory tomato sauce, perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Juicy ground beef is combined with seasonings, layered with melted cheese, and baked in a flavorful sauce, creating a comforting dish with rich flavors and satisfying textures that appeal to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine hamburger, egg, cracker crumbs, chopped onion, 1/3 cup tomato sauce, salt, oregano, and pepper in a bowl.
- Mix well and shape into a flat rectangle about 10 x 12 inches on waxed paper.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the meat rectangle.
- Roll up the meat like a jelly roll; press the ends to seal.
- Place in a shallow baking dish and bake at 350°F for 1 hour.
- Drain off excess fat from the dish.
- Pour remaining tomato sauce over the rolled meat and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some minced garlic or chopped bell peppers into the meat mixture. If you don’t have cracker crumbs, breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes can work as a substitute. Experiment with different types of cheese for unique flavors; mozzarella or pepper jack can add a nice twist to this dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Cheese Meat Roll sliced, drizzled with the remaining tomato sauce. It pairs beautifully with a side of Easy Baked Beans or a fresh garden salad. For a comforting meal, consider serving it alongside mashed potatoes or garlic bread. This dish is perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the meat roll in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. For best results, cover with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Meat Roll contains roughly 723 calories, with 13g protein, 131g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (39% of the Daily Value), calcium (33% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1786mg per serving (78% 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 the Cheese Meat Roll ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat roll and refrigerate it before baking. Just make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and allow it to come to room temperature before cooking for even baking.
What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
While the recipe calls for shredded cheese, you can use any cheese you prefer. Cheddar is a classic choice, but mozzarella, gouda, or even a spicy pepper jack can enhance the flavor. Just ensure it melts well for the best texture.
Can I add vegetables to the meat roll?
Absolutely! Finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach can be mixed into the meat mixture for added nutrition and flavor. Just be cautious not to add too much moisture, as this can affect the texture of the roll.
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).