Sicilian Meat Roll
Sicilian Meat Roll is a savory, flavorful dish featuring seasoned ground beef layered with ham and melted mozzarella. Its rich combination of herbs and cheeses makes it perfect for family dinners or special occasions, offering a delightful blend of Italian-inspired flavors wrapped into a hearty roll.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine eggs, breadcrumbs, tomato juice, parsley, oregano, salt, pepper, and minced garlic in a bowl.
- Stir in ground beef, mixing well with hands.
- On waxed paper, pat meat mixture into a 12 x 10-inch rectangle.
- Arrange ham slices on top of the meat, leaving a small margin around the edges.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the ham.
- Starting from the short end, carefully roll up the meat using the paper to lift; seal the edges and ends.
- Bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 1 hour and 15 minutes.
- Place cheese wedges over the top of the roll and return to the oven for 5 minutes, or until the cheese melts.
- Serve with watermelon pickle or sweet relish.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in grated Parmesan cheese with the meat mixture. If you don't have breadcrumbs, crushed crackers or rolled oats can serve as a substitute. To save time, use pre-shredded cheese, though fresh mozzarella will give the best flavor and texture. This recipe is reminiscent of other Italian recipes like Lazy Lasagna, making it a comforting option.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Sicilian Meat Roll sliced with a side of green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with watermelon pickle or sweet relish for a tangy contrast. For a hearty dinner, consider serving it alongside Baked Mostaccioli or spaghetti to soak up the delicious juices.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be careful not to overcook the cheese.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sicilian Meat Roll contains roughly 458 calories, with 43g protein, 74g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (287% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (175% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1689mg per serving (73% 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 use a different type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or pork for the beef if desired. However, keep in mind that the flavor and texture will vary slightly. Mixing different meats can also enhance the dish, so feel free to experiment.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the meat roll up to a day in advance. Assemble it, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to cook, remove from the fridge and bake as instructed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it's cold.
What can I do with leftovers?
Leftover Sicilian Meat Roll can be sliced and used in sandwiches or served over pasta for a quick meal. You can also chop it up and mix it into a savory spaghetti sauce for an easy weeknight dinner.
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).