Little Round Meat Loaves
Little Round Meat Loaves offer savory, seasoned ground beef baked to perfection, ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings, served sliced and enjoyed with crackers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients in a bowl, using just enough milk to moisten.
- Let the mixture rest for 10 minutes.
- Shape into rolls and wrap in foil.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour.
- Serve sliced on Ritz crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the mixture. If you don't have Parmesan cheese, you can substitute with any hard cheese like Pecorino Romano. For a spicier kick, try incorporating some crushed red pepper flakes. Remember to adjust the salt and pepper according to your taste preferences, especially if using seasoned bread crumbs.
Serving Suggestions
These little round meat loaves are perfect for serving as an appetizer on Ritz crackers. Pair them with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. They also go well with dipping sauces like barbecue or honey mustard. For a fun twist, try serving them with mashed potatoes or over rice, making it a delightful main course.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover meat loaves can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Little Round Meat Loaves contains roughly 3113 calories, with 44g protein, 324g carbohydrates, and 195g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (374% of the Daily Value), iron (108% of the Daily Value), and calcium (99% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1083mg per serving (47% 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 ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef. Adjust the cooking time if necessary, as turkey may cook faster. Adding a bit more seasoning can also help enhance the flavor.
How do I know when the meat loaves are done?
The meat loaves are done when they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check this. Additionally, the meat should be firm to the touch and no longer pink in the center.
Can I make these meat loaves ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meat mixture and shape the loaves a day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator, covered, until you're ready to bake. This makes for an easy meal prep option, especially for busy weeknights.
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).