Sicilian Meat Loaf
Sicilian Meat Loaf is a delightful twist on the classic dish, featuring layers of savory deli ham and gooey Mozzarella cheese wrapped in a flavorful meat mixture. Perfect for family dinners, it combines the comforting tastes of Italian cuisine with a hearty texture that will satisfy everyone at the table.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine eggs, tomato juice, oregano, minced garlic, deli ham, shredded Mozzarella cheese, soft bread crumbs, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper in a bowl and mix well.
- Pat the mixture into a rectangle on waxed paper.
- Layer ham and shredded cheese on the ground beef.
- Roll the mixture like a jelly roll, sealing the edges and ends.
- Place seam side down in a 13 x 9-inch baking dish.
- Bake at 350° for 1 hour and 15 minutes.
- Top with cheese wedges.
- Bake until cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider adding diced bell peppers or olives to the mixture for extra flavor. If you don't have tomato juice, you can substitute it with V8 juice or even a bit of tomato sauce mixed with water. Ensure the ground beef is not too lean to keep the meatloaf moist. If you want a crispier top, broil for a few minutes after baking.
Serving Suggestions
This meatloaf pairs beautifully with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. Consider serving it with a side of garlic bread or pasta dressed in your favorite sauce, like Microwave Spaghetti Sauce, for a complete meal. A light red wine can complement the flavors nicely.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Sicilian Meat Loaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in the microwave, covering them with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, or reheat in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sicilian Meat Loaf contains roughly 410 calories, with 25g protein, 77g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (174% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (127% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (80% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 22g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative. However, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly as turkey tends to cook faster. Adding a bit of olive oil can also help keep it moist during baking.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this Sicilian Meat Loaf gluten-free, substitute the soft bread crumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well, particularly the deli ham.
What can I serve with this meatloaf?
Serve it with mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or a crisp Caesar salad for a balanced meal. For a comforting option, try pairing it with Pasta Fagioli, which complements the flavors of the meatloaf nicely.
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).