Meat Loaf Cordon Bleu
A savory meat loaf filled with Swiss cheese and ham, seasoned with herbs and garlic, perfect for a hearty family dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 eggs ⓘ
- 1/4 cup minced fresh parsley, divided ⓘ
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs ⓘ
- 1/2 cup chicken broth ⓘ
- 2 cloves garlic, pressed ⓘ
- 2 teaspoons salt ⓘ
- 1 teaspoon tarragon ⓘ
- 1 teaspoon dried mustard ⓘ
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper ⓘ
- 2 pounds lean ground beef ⓘ
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions ⓘ
- 1 tablespoon butter ⓘ
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese ⓘ
- 2 ounces prosciutto or other smoked ham, chopped coarsely ⓘ
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Beat eggs in a bowl. Add 2 tablespoons of minced fresh parsley, bread crumbs, chicken broth, pressed garlic, salt, tarragon, dried mustard, and ground black pepper.
- Beat well until mixture is combined.
- Mix in the lean ground beef and chopped green onions.
- Set aside.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the meat mixture. If you're short on time, use store-bought breadcrumbs or substitute with crushed crackers. You can also try different cheeses like cheddar for a bolder flavor. Be sure to pack the meat mixture tightly in the loaf pan for even cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the meatloaf and serve it with a rich gravy or a drizzle of French Dressing Chicken for added flavor. It pairs well with sides like mashed potatoes or Cabbage Noodle Salad for a refreshing contrast. Consider a simple green salad to balance the richness of the meatloaf.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Meat Loaf Cordon Bleu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. This dish also freezes well; wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat Loaf Cordon Bleu contains roughly 1627 calories, with 14g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 163g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (32% of the Daily Value), iron (29% of the Daily Value), and protein (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1563mg 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 ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative for a lighter version of this dish. Just be aware that turkey may result in a slightly drier texture, so consider adding an extra egg or a bit more broth to maintain moisture.
How can I tell when the meatloaf is done cooking?
To ensure your meatloaf is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer. It should read 160°F (71°C) internally. Additionally, the meatloaf should be firm to the touch and no longer pink in the center.
Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the meatloaf mixture the night before and store it covered in the refrigerator. Simply bake it when you're ready to serve. This makes it a convenient option 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).