Pizza Cheese Meat Loaf
A savory meatloaf with a pizza-inspired twist, featuring seasoned ground beef, tomato sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese rolled into a delicious jelly roll shape. Perfect for dinner, it offers a hearty and flavorful meal that appeals to both meat lovers and cheese enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Crush saltine crackers and combine with ground beef, two-thirds of the can of tomato sauce, egg, chopped onion, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Mix well and press out into a large rectangle on waxed paper.
- Place shredded mozzarella cheese in a pile near one end of the rectangle, and sprinkle some along the middle of the rectangle.
- Start at the end where the cheese is piled and roll up like a jelly roll, sealing the ends and smoothing the seam into a loaf.
- Place the seam side down in a loaf pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for one hour.
- Remove from oven and drain off grease.
- Pour remaining tomato sauce over the loaf and return to oven for 10 to 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider adding chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to the meat mixture for added flavor and nutrition. If you don't have saltine crackers, you can substitute with crushed bread crumbs or panko. To enhance the Italian flavor, try incorporating some garlic powder or fresh herbs. Ensure the meatloaf is tightly rolled to prevent cheese from leaking during baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Pizza Cheese Meat Loaf with a side of spaghetti or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. It also pairs beautifully with garlic bread or a slice of crusty Italian bread. For a fun twist, try serving it with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. This dish is also great for meal prep and can be enjoyed in sandwiches or as part of a hearty Beef recipes spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the fridge 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, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pizza Cheese Meat Loaf contains roughly 354 calories, with 8g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1397mg per serving (61% 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 meatloaf before or after baking?
Yes, you can freeze the meatloaf before or after baking. If freezing before baking, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to cook, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. If freezing after baking, let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat for a healthier or vegetarian option. Keep in mind that different meats may alter the flavor and texture slightly, so adjust seasonings as needed.
How can I tell when the meatloaf is fully cooked?
The best way to check if the meatloaf is fully cooked is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (70°C) for ground beef. If you don't have a thermometer, cut into the center to ensure it's no longer pink and the juices run clear.
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).