Juanita'S Sicilian Meat Roll
Juicy and flavorful Sicilian meat roll filled with ham, mozzarella, and seasoned beef, perfect for family dinners and gatherings, offering rich Italian-inspired flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup soft bread crumbs ⓘ
- 1/2 cup tomato juice ⓘ
- 2 eggs, beaten ⓘ
- 2 teaspoons parsley, snipped ⓘ
- 1 onion, chopped fine ⓘ
- 1 grated carrot (optional) ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, crushed ⓘ
- 1/4 teaspoon salt ⓘ
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper ⓘ
- 1 clove garlic, minced ⓘ
- 2 pounds lean ground beef ⓘ
- 8 slices boiled ham, sliced thin ⓘ
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Mozzarella cheese ⓘ
Instructions
- Combine bread crumbs, tomato juice, eggs, parsley, onion, carrot, oregano, salt, pepper, and garlic in a bowl.
- Add the mixture to the ground beef and mix thoroughly.
- Pat out the meat mixture on foil or waxed paper into a rectangle approximately 12 x 10 inches.
- Leaving an inch border around the edges, layer the sliced ham over the meat, then sprinkle the shredded Mozzarella cheese on top.
- Starting at the short end, roll the meat mixture into a log using the foil to lift and shape.
- Seal the edges to enclose the filling.
- Place the rolled meat seam side down in a 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour and 15 minutes.
- Add the cheese wedges on top and return to the oven until the cheese melts.
- Serve hot, sliced into 8 portions.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some grated Parmesan cheese with the Mozzarella. If you're out of bread crumbs, crushed crackers or oatmeal can be used as a substitute. You can also add chopped spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition. Make sure the meat mixture is not too wet to maintain the integrity of the roll while baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meat roll hot, sliced into 8 portions, with a side of Italian Sauce La Roma for dipping. A fresh green salad or roasted vegetables pairs wonderfully as a side. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside garlic bread or over a bed of pasta, like Jean's Manicotti or Mom's Famous Lasagna.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover meat roll can be stored 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 in short intervals until warm. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through to retain texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Juanita'S Sicilian Meat Roll contains roughly 349 calories, with 14g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (90% of the Daily Value), iron (60% of the Daily Value), and calcium (44% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1555mg per serving (68% 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 meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Just ensure the meat is lean to maintain the flavor and texture of the roll. Adjust cooking times slightly if using a different meat to ensure it’s fully cooked.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the meat roll and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover with plastic wrap or foil. This allows the flavors to meld nicely. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven.
What can I serve with the meat roll?
This meat roll pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with roasted vegetables, a mixed green salad, or garlic bread. For a heartier meal, a side of pasta, like Italian Shell Bake or Great Microwave Lasagna, complements the flavors beautifully.
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).