Pinwheel Meat Loaf
Pinwheel Meat Loaf features seasoned ground beef filled with cheesy rice mixture, baked to perfection. A hearty, flavorful dish ideal for family dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground beef, soft crumbs, half of the Cheez Whiz, beaten egg, and salt; mix lightly.
- Pat out the meat mixture to cover a 12 x 10-inch rectangle of foil.
- Combine remaining Cheez Whiz, cooked rice, and parsley; spread over the meat.
- Roll up starting at the narrow end.
- Wrap securely and refrigerate several hours or overnight.
- Cut the roll into 8 slices and place in a baking dish.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 to 35 minutes or until the meat is done.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on flavor, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can substitute the Cheez Whiz with a mix of cream cheese and shredded cheddar for a creamier texture. If you prefer a bit of spice, add some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the meat mixture. Remember to pat the meat mixture evenly to ensure even cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve pinwheel meat loaf with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. Mashed potatoes or garlic bread also complement the dish nicely. For a fun twist, pair it with a dipping sauce like barbecue or ranch dressing. This dish pairs beautifully with Easy Beefy Squares for a hearty dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover pinwheel meat loaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pinwheel Meat Loaf contains roughly 528 calories, with 18g protein, 102g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (101% of the Daily Value), potassium (49% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (47% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1424mg per serving (62% 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 pinwheel meat loaf before baking?
Yes, you can freeze the pinwheel meat loaf before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then cook as directed.
What can I use instead of cooked rice?
If you don't have cooked rice on hand, you can substitute it with cooked quinoa or couscous for a different texture. Alternatively, crushed crackers or breadcrumbs can also work, although they may slightly alter the final flavor of the meat loaf.
How do I know when the meat loaf is fully cooked?
The best way to check if the meat loaf is fully cooked is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 160°F. Additionally, the meat should no longer be pink in the center, and juices should run clear. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing for better results.
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).