Martha Goldstrohm'S Swiss Cheese Meat Loaf
A savory Swiss cheese meat loaf combining ground beef, vegetables, and melted Swiss cheese, perfect for hearty family dinners or delicious leftovers for sandwiches.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all the ingredients together in a large bowl.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Shape the mixture into a loaf or divide into two small loaves.
- Place the meat loaf(s) in a baking dish and cover with foil.
- Bake for 1 hour or until done, until the internal temperature reaches safe levels.
- Remove from oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing the onions and green peppers before mixing them in. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you don’t have Swiss cheese, Gruyère or provolone work well. Feel free to add herbs like parsley or thyme for extra depth. Ensure the meat loaf is moist by not overmixing and using fresh bread crumbs.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Swiss Cheese Meat Loaf with creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a comforting meal. A simple side salad with vinaigrette complements the richness of the loaf. For a twist, try it with a tangy barbecue sauce or alongside baked beans. It pairs beautifully with American recipes from the same comfort food tradition.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture. This helps maintain the meat loaf's texture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Martha Goldstrohm'S Swiss Cheese Meat Loaf contains roughly 303 calories, with 11g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (38% of the Daily Value), protein (21% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1708mg per serving (74% 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 meat loaf before baking?
Yes, you can freeze the shaped meat loaf before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then follow the baking instructions as usual. This makes for a quick meal option on busy days.
What can I use instead of bread crumbs?
If you don’t have bread crumbs, crushed crackers or oatmeal can be used as a substitute. Both will help bind the meat loaf while providing a slightly different texture. Just ensure that the amount used is similar to the bread crumbs to maintain the right consistency.
How do I know when the meat loaf is done?
The meat loaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check this. Additionally, the loaf should be firm to the touch and the juices should run clear. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing for the best results.
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).