Italian-Swiss Meat Loaf
A savory Italian-Swiss meat loaf filled with ham and cheese, perfect for hearty family dinners or special occasions with rich flavors and a comforting texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine ground beef, ground veal, chopped onion, fresh parsley, ketchup, egg, and bread crumbs in a large bowl.
- Mix thoroughly until well combined. Adjust bread crumbs if the mixture is too wet or too dry.
- Shape the mixture into a rectangle on a baking sheet or in a loaf pan.
- Lay the boiled ham slices evenly over the center of the meat rectangle.
- Place Swiss cheese slices over the ham.
- Roll the meat mixture around the ham and cheese to form a loaf.
- Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 1.5 hours until cooked through and browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some grated Parmesan cheese or Italian herbs like oregano and basil into the meat mixture. If you prefer a leaner option, you can substitute turkey for the ground beef and veal. Adjust the bread crumbs for moisture. Using fresh bread instead of store-bought bread crumbs can enhance the texture, similar to what you'd find in Italian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This meat loaf pairs beautifully with a side of mashed potatoes or a fresh garden salad. For a heartier meal, serve with roasted vegetables or garlic bread. A slice of the meat loaf also makes a great sandwich the next day. Consider complementing it with a rich tomato sauce, reminiscent of Mrs. T'S Spaghetti Sauce, 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 preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option, but be cautious not to overcook them.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Italian-Swiss Meat Loaf contains roughly 530 calories, with 26g protein, 71g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (59% of the Daily Value), calcium (57% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (54% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 723mg per serving (31% 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 Italian-Swiss meat loaf?
Yes, you can freeze the meat loaf before or after baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
What can I use instead of Swiss cheese?
If you don’t have Swiss cheese, you can substitute with provolone or mozzarella for a similar melting quality. Cheddar can also work if you prefer a sharper flavor, though it will change the taste of the dish.
How can I tell if the meat loaf is fully cooked?
The best way to check if the meat loaf is cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. It should register at least 160°F (70°C) at the center. Additionally, the meat loaf should be browned on the outside, and juices should run clear when cut.
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).