Greek Meat Loaf
A flavorful Greek-inspired meat loaf combining herbs, tomato sauce, and savory spices, perfect for hearty family dinners or casual gatherings with a Mediterranean flair.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lb. lean ground round ⓘ
- 8 oz. can tomato sauce ⓘ
- 1/2 cup chopped onion ⓘ
- 2 tablespoons chopped green pepper ⓘ
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon coarse black pepper ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon thyme ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon marjoram ⓘ
- 3/4 cup coarsely crushed saltines ⓘ
- 2 pieces bread, soaked in water and squeezed slightly
- 1 teaspoon oregano ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder ⓘ
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix all ingredients gently in a large bowl.
- Pack the mixture into a loaf pan.
- Bake for about 1 hour.
- Pour off accumulated drippings before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on flavor, consider adding crumbled feta cheese or chopped kalamata olives to the meat mixture. If you don't have saltines, crushed breadcrumbs work well as a substitute. Keep the mixture moist by not overworking it, which can make the meatloaf dense. For a touch of sweetness, a tablespoon of honey can be added to the tomato sauce before pouring it over the top.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Greek Meat Loaf with a side of roasted vegetable salad for a refreshing contrast, or pair it with hearty lentil soup for a comforting meal. A simple spinach salad makes a light and nutritious side. Drizzle a little extra tomato sauce over the top before serving for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a microwave-safe dish and cover them with a damp paper towel, heating in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Greek Meat Loaf contains roughly 679 calories, with 15g protein, 123g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (81% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (47% of the Daily Value), and calcium (37% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 528mg per serving (23% 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 freeze the meatloaf before baking?
Yes, you can freeze the meatloaf before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
What can I use instead of ground round?
You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or lamb in place of ground round for a leaner option. Each will bring its own flavor profile, so adjust the seasonings slightly to enhance the meat's unique taste.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
The meatloaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check this. Additionally, it should feel firm to the touch and the juices should run clear when cut into.
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).