Roma Meat Roll
A savory meat roll filled with cheese and seasoned hamburger, baked to perfection. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests craving hearty, cheesy flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine hamburger, crushed cracker crumbs, chopped onion, 1/3 cup tomato sauce with cheese, salt, oregano, and pepper.
- Mix well and shape into a rectangle about 10 x 12 inches on waxed paper.
- Sprinkle shredded pizza cheese evenly over the mixture.
- Roll up like a jelly roll and press the ends of the roll to seal.
- Place in a shallow baking dish.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour.
- Do not cover.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, consider adding minced garlic or diced bell peppers to the meat mixture. If you don't have cracker crumbs, breadcrumbs or crushed chips can work as substitutes. Experiment with different cheeses, like mozzarella or cheddar, for a twist. Ensure the roll is tightly sealed to prevent cheese from leaking during baking. For a spicy kick, sprinkle red pepper flakes before rolling.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Roma Meat Roll sliced, garnished with fresh parsley or a drizzle of additional tomato sauce for extra flavor. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider serving with creamy mashed potatoes or with a slice of garlic bread for a comforting feast. Explore similar dishes like Crazy Eggs for breakfast inspiration.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a microwave-safe dish with a damp paper towel over them to retain moisture, heating in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes, ensuring they remain moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Roma Meat Roll contains roughly 659 calories, with 15g protein, 128g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (79% of the Daily Value), calcium (63% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (52% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1710mg per serving (74% 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 recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat roll in advance. Assemble the roll, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld. Just remember to adjust your baking time if it goes into the oven cold.
What can I substitute for the egg in this recipe?
If you're looking for an egg substitute, try using 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed meal mix (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water) to bind the ingredients. This will help maintain the texture of the meat roll while keeping it suitable for vegans.
Can I freeze the meat roll?
Absolutely! To freeze, assemble the meat roll but do not bake it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then bake as directed. This makes for an easy meal option later.
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).