Hungarian Meat Roll
A savory Hungarian-inspired meat roll filled with ham and cheese, featuring rich flavors and tender ground beef, perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the beaten eggs, bread crumbs, tomato juice, dried oregano, salt, pepper, and minced garlic; mix well and add to the ground beef.
- Prepare a 13 x 10 inch foil and spread the ground beef mixture within about an inch of the edges.
- Arrange the sliced boiled ham in the middle of the beef mixture and sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the ham.
- Starting from the short end, carefully roll the meat mixture, lifting the foil as you go, and seal the edges to enclose the filling.
- Discard the foil after rolling.
- Place the rolled meat in a 13 x 9 inch baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for one hour.
- Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese on top and bake for an additional 15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some finely chopped herbs or spices such as thyme or paprika. If you’re low on eggs, unsweetened applesauce can be a substitute to help bind the ingredients. To avoid sogginess, ensure the tomato juice is not overly watery. For a twist, try using a different cheese like cheddar or pepper jack.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Hungarian Meat Roll with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. It also pairs beautifully with Glazed Shallots With Port Wine for a touch of sweetness. Consider slicing the roll into thick pieces for a hearty sandwich option or serving it over a bed of mashed potatoes for comfort food vibes.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the meat roll in a baking dish and cover with foil to keep moisture. Heat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hungarian Meat Roll contains roughly 550 calories, with 18g protein, 107g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (110% of the Daily Value), iron (83% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (58% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1946mg per serving (85% 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 different types of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the lean ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Just be mindful that cooking times may vary slightly with different meats.
What can I do if my meat roll falls apart during baking?
If your meat roll is falling apart, ensure that the egg and breadcrumbs mixture is well incorporated. You can also refrigerate the rolled meat for about 30 minutes before baking to help it hold its shape better.
Can I freeze the meat roll before baking?
Absolutely! You can freeze the rolled meat before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to cook, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
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).