Meat Loaf Bracciole
Juicy meat loaf bracciole wrapped with bacon, filled with mozzarella and herbs, offering rich flavors perfect for hearty family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Add enough water to the mushroom liquid to make 1/2 cup.
- In a bowl, combine ground beef, 1/2 cup bread crumbs, egg, mushroom liquid, garlic powder, and salt.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix the ingredients thoroughly and shape into a flat, rectangular layer.
- Spread chopped mushrooms, parsley flakes, oregano, thyme, basil, and mozzarella cheese over the beef layer.
- Roll up the beef layer tightly to form a loaf or roulade.
- Wrap the rolled beef with fried and crumbled bacon strips.
- Place the bracciole in a baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes until cooked through.
- Let rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added moisture, you can substitute half of the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. If you prefer a spicier flavor, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes. Ensure you use fresh herbs for the best flavor, or substitute dried herbs with a lesser amount. This recipe can be made in advance; just prepare and refrigerate before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Meat Loaf Bracciole with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Italian Meat Balls With Sauce or a side of pasta tossed in olive oil and garlic. This dish is also delightful with a glass of red wine for a cozy dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored 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 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual slices on a microwave-safe plate for about 1-2 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat Loaf Bracciole contains roughly 630 calories, with 22g protein, 119g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (186% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2264mg per serving (98% 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 cheese?
Yes, you can substitute mozzarella with provolone or cheddar cheese for a different flavor profile. Just ensure the cheese melts well and complements the other ingredients.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make Meat Loaf Bracciole gluten-free, use gluten-free bread crumbs and ensure all other ingredients, like seasonings and sauces, are gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy the dish without gluten.
Can I freeze the bracciole?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked bracciole. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then follow the baking instructions.
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).