Spinach-Roll Meat Loaf
A savory spinach-stuffed meat loaf with herbs and a tender texture, perfect for family dinners or special occasions, offering flavorful and moist bites with a crispy crust.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground turkey or chicken with chopped onion, parsley, minced garlic, egg, salt or Mrs. Dash, pepper, and bread crumbs until well combined.
- Spray a sheet of waxed paper with cooking spray.
- Place the meat mixture on the waxed paper and spread it out about 3/4-inch thick.
- Press the thawed and drained chopped spinach evenly over the meat mixture.
- Lift the edges of the waxed paper to roll the meat mixture into a jelly roll shape with the spinach inside.
- Pinch the ends to seal and place the roll seam side down in a baking dish.
- Sprinkle the top with paprika and score the surface.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F for 10 minutes.
- Reduce oven temperature to 350°F and bake for an additional 25 minutes.
- Cover loosely with foil, turn off the oven, and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavor boost, consider adding grated Parmesan cheese or Italian seasoning to the meat mixture. If you don’t have fresh parsley, dried parsley can work in a pinch, but reduce the amount. To ensure even cooking, use a meat thermometer; aim for an internal temperature of 165°F. This dish is versatile, so feel free to incorporate other vegetables like diced bell peppers.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the spinach-roll meatloaf with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or a creamy sauce. For an Italian twist, consider serving it with marinara sauce. This dish is perfect for meal prep and goes well with leftovers from recipes like Turkey Heavenly Hash.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and place it in the microwave, covering it to retain moisture. Heat in short intervals until warmed through. You can also reheat in an oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spinach-Roll Meat Loaf contains roughly 659 calories, with 47g protein, 112g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (211% of the Daily Value), iron (195% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (149% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2123mg per serving (92% 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 different types of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken with lean ground beef or pork. Just adjust the cooking time slightly because different meats may cook differently. Ensure that ground meats are cooked to the appropriate internal temperature for safety.
What can I use instead of frozen spinach?
Fresh spinach can be used instead of frozen. Just make sure to wash and sauté it lightly to reduce its moisture before adding it to the meat mixture. This will prevent the meatloaf from becoming soggy.
Can I freeze the meatloaf?
Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked meatloaf for up to three months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed. This makes for a quick meal option later on.
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).