Cream Cheese Meat Loaf
Cream cheese adds richness to this savory meatloaf, blending flavors of beef, tomato, and herbs. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, it's hearty and flavorful.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground beef, tomato paste, eggs, Ritz crackers, chopped onion, chopped green pepper, salt, black pepper, and garlic dash until well combined.
- Divide the mixture in half. Pat half of the mixture into the bottom of a loaf pan.
- In a separate bowl, mix softened cream cheese, oregano, and chives until smooth.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture over the layer of meat in the pan.
- Top with the remaining ground beef, spreading evenly over the cream cheese layer.
- Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 1 hour until cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a moister meatloaf, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or swapping some ground beef for ground turkey. If you're out of Ritz crackers, crushed bread or breadcrumbs make great substitutes. Experiment with your favorite herbs or add diced vegetables for extra flavor, similar to what you might do in American recipes like Broccoli And Ground Beef Casserole.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Cream Cheese Meat Loaf with classic sides like mashed potatoes or green beans for a comforting meal. It pairs beautifully with a crisp salad or roasted vegetables. For a twist, try it alongside Railroad Cornbread Pie for a delightful mix of textures and flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 1-2 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes for a crispy exterior.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cream Cheese Meat Loaf contains roughly 1791 calories, with 41g protein, 367g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (266% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2191mg per serving (95% 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 use a different type of cheese instead of cream cheese?
Yes, you can substitute cream cheese with ricotta or cottage cheese for a different texture and flavor. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly, as these cheeses may have varying salt levels.
What can I add to the meatloaf for extra flavor?
Consider incorporating finely chopped mushrooms, grated carrots, or celery to the meat mixture. These additions not only enhance flavor but also add moisture and nutrition to the dish.
Can I freeze the meatloaf for later use?
Absolutely! Wrap the cooled meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
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).