Meat Loaf With Rice
A hearty meat loaf wrapped around flavorful rice and cheese, offering a comforting dish with savory notes and satisfying textures. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this recipe combines tender beef with seasoned rice, creating a delicious, filling meal that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook rice in beef broth according to package directions.
- Combine bread crumbs, milk, egg, and seasoning in a bowl.
- Add 1/4 cup onion and 1/4 cup cheese to the mixture.
- Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
- Spread the mixture evenly on waxed paper to approximately 12 x 10 inches.
- Combine cooked rice, 1/4 cup cheese, and remaining onion.
- Spread this rice mixture on top of the beef mixture.
- Roll up jelly roll style and seal the ends.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding chopped garlic or herbs like parsley to the meat mixture. Use ground turkey or chicken as a leaner substitute for beef. If you don't have beef broth, vegetable broth works well, though it will change the flavor slightly. Ensure the rice is fully cooked before combining to maintain the right texture in your meat loaf.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meat loaf sliced with a generous drizzle of tomato sauce on top. It pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For a twist, consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or with slices of crusty bread. This dish is a great way to introduce kids to hearty American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place slices in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, heating in 30-second intervals until warmed through. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat Loaf With Rice contains roughly 471 calories, with 13g protein, 88g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (27% of the Daily Value) and protein (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 977mg per serving (42% 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 cooking?
Yes, you can freeze the meat loaf before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then cook as directed. This keeps the flavors intact and allows for quick meal prep.
What can I use instead of bread crumbs?
If you don't have bread crumbs, crushed crackers or rolled oats can be excellent substitutes. Alternatively, you could use panko for a lighter texture. Just ensure the substitute binds well with the other ingredients to maintain the loaf's structure.
How can I add more vegetables to the meat loaf?
You can finely chop or grate vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini and mix them into the meat mixture. This adds moisture and nutrients without significantly altering the flavor. Consider sautéing them first to enhance their sweetness and flavor.
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).