Spinach And Ricotta Stuffed Meat Loaf
A hearty meat loaf filled with spinach and ricotta, offering a flavorful combination of savory beef, fresh greens, and creamy cheese—perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 beaten egg ⓘ
- 3/4 cup soft bread crumbs ⓘ
- 1 (8 oz.) can tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green pepper ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt ⓘ
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper ⓘ
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef ⓘ
- 1 (10 oz.) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and well drained ⓘ
- 1 cup ricotta or cottage cheese ⓘ
- 1 c. Ricotta or cottage cheese ⓘ
Instructions
- Combine beaten egg, bread crumbs, 1/4 cup tomato sauce, chopped green pepper, garlic salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Mix in ground beef until well combined.
- Spread the mixture into a loaf shape on a baking sheet or in a loaf pan.
- In a separate bowl, mix thawed and drained chopped spinach with ricotta or cottage cheese.
- Make a slit in the center of the meat loaf to create a pocket, then fill with the spinach and cheese mixture.
- Seal the edges and cover the loaf with the remaining tomato sauce.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 60 minutes or until cooked through and browned on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding Italian herbs like oregano or basil to the meat mixture. If you don't have ricotta, cottage cheese works well as a substitute, or you can use cream cheese for a richer filling. Be sure to drain the spinach thoroughly to avoid a watery filling, which can affect the texture of the meatloaf. This dish pairs beautifully with American recipes, making it a versatile choice for dinner.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the spinach and ricotta stuffed meatloaf with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. Mashed potatoes or garlic bread make excellent accompaniments, enhancing the hearty flavors of the dish. For a comforting option, consider serving with a side of Mama Bonomo'S Meatball Soup to create a satisfying dinner experience.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, cover the meatloaf with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also slice and microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spinach And Ricotta Stuffed Meat Loaf contains roughly 606 calories, with 32g protein, 57g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (67% of the Daily Value), protein (65% of the Daily Value), and iron (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 592mg per serving (26% 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 stuffed meatloaf?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked meatloaf. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to cook it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking. Cooked meatloaf can also be frozen for up to three months.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
Ground turkey or chicken can be great alternatives if you're looking for a leaner option. For a vegetarian version, consider using lentils or a mixture of finely chopped mushrooms and nuts to replace the meat, adjusting the cooking time as needed.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
To ensure the meatloaf is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 160°F (70°C). Additionally, the meatloaf should be firm to the touch and have a nice browned top. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing to maintain its juices.
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).