Meat Roll
A savory meat roll filled with ham, cheese, and aromatic herbs, perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests with its rich flavors and satisfying texture.
Ingredients
- 2 beaten eggs ⓘ
- 3/4 cup soft bread crumbs ⓘ
- 1/2 cup tomato juice ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, crushed ⓘ
- 2 tablespoons snipped parsley ⓘ
- 1/4 teaspoon salt ⓘ
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper ⓘ
- 1 clove minced garlic
- 2 pounds lean ground beef ⓘ
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese ⓘ
- 1/4 cup dehydrated onion ⓘ
- 8 thin slices boiled ham ⓘ
- 6 ounces grated Mozzarella cheese ⓘ
Instructions
- Combine and mix the eggs, bread crumbs, tomato juice, dried oregano, parsley, salt, pepper, and minced garlic.
- Add the ground beef and mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Place a sheet of waxed paper or foil on a flat surface and pat the meat mixture into a 12 x 10-inch rectangle.
- Lay the slices of boiled ham atop the meat, leaving a small margin around the edges.
- Sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese over the ham.
- Starting from the short end, carefully roll up the meat mixture using the paper to lift, sealing the edges and ends to form a roll.
- Place the roll, seam side down, in a 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, until cooked through. The center will remain pink due to the ham.
- Remove from oven and place strips of shredded cheese over the top of the roll.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese melts.
Tips & Substitutions
For added moisture, consider mixing in a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or substituting some of the tomato juice with BBQ sauce. If you prefer a different cheese, try using cheddar or a blend for a unique flavor profile. To save time, you can use pre-cooked ham slices or even swap the beef for ground turkey for a lighter option.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meat roll sliced thick with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal. It also pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or your favorite pasta dish, making it a versatile option for family dinners. For an Italian twist, consider serving it alongside garlic bread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 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. Alternatively, reheat in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat Roll contains roughly 878 calories, with 54g protein, 155g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (221% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (190% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2207mg per serving (96% 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 make this meat roll ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat roll up to a day in advance. Simply follow the instructions until the baking step, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
Ground turkey, chicken, or pork can be excellent substitutes for ground beef in this recipe. Keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly, so adjust your seasonings accordingly. For a vegetarian option, consider using a mixture of cooked lentils and chopped mushrooms for a hearty alternative.
How do I know when the meat roll is fully cooked?
The best way to ensure your meat roll is fully cooked is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the center of the roll; it should read at least 160°F (71°C) for ground beef. Additionally, the juices should run clear, and the center may remain slightly pink due to the ham, but it should not be raw.
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).