Meat Loaf Pinwheel
A savory meat pinwheel featuring seasoned ground meat, cheesy rice filling, and a tender roll, perfect for family dinners or special occasions with rich flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground meat, bread crumbs, Cheez Whiz, beaten egg, and salt. Mix lightly.
- Pat out the meat mixture to cover a 12 x 10-inch piece of foil.
- In a separate bowl, combine Cheez Whiz, cooked rice, and parsley.
- Spread the cheese and rice mixture over the meat layer.
- Roll up the meat, starting at the narrow end of the foil.
- Wrap securely and refrigerate several hours or overnight.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cut the rolled meat into 8 slices.
- Bake for 30 to 35 minutes until cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some chopped onions or bell peppers into the meat mixture. If you don't have Cheez Whiz, a mixture of cream cheese and shredded cheddar can be a great substitute. Ensure to pat the meat evenly for consistent cooking. Always let the meatloaf rest briefly before slicing to maintain juiciness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meatloaf pinwheels with a side of mashed potatoes or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. They also pair wonderfully with Margaret'S Broccoli Salad for a refreshing contrast. For a more casual presentation, consider serving with a dipping sauce like barbecue or ranch on the side.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover meatloaf pinwheels can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap individual slices in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or until warmed through, ensuring they don't dry out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat Loaf Pinwheel contains roughly 696 calories, with 38g protein, 125g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (135% of the Daily Value), protein (76% of the Daily Value), and potassium (69% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 718mg per serving (31% 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?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If using lean meats, consider adding a bit of olive oil to keep the pinwheels moist. Just be mindful of cooking times, as leaner meat may cook faster.
What can I serve with meatloaf pinwheels?
Meatloaf pinwheels can be served with a variety of sides. Consider classic options like mashed potatoes or macaroni and cheese. For a lighter touch, a side salad or steamed vegetables would complement the richness of the dish.
How do I make this dish gluten-free?
To make gluten-free meatloaf pinwheels, substitute regular bread crumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Ensure the Cheez Whiz or any other cheese used is gluten-free as well, to maintain the integrity of the dish.
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).