Stuffed Rolled Meat Loaf
A savory meat roll filled with onions and apricots, offering a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, blend ground ham, ground pork, crushed saltine crackers, egg, milk, salt, thyme, and pepper.
- Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
- Moisten an 18-inch piece of waxed paper with water or oil.
- Pat the meat mixture onto the waxed paper to form a rectangle measuring 9 x 12 inches.
- Spread chopped onions evenly over the top of the meat rectangle.
- Coarsely chop the drained apricot halves and sprinkle over the onions.
- Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over all the layers.
- Starting with the 9-inch side, carefully roll the meat mixture into a compact jelly roll shape, lifting the waxed paper as you roll.
- Place the meat roll seam-side down into a lightly greased 9 x 5-inch bread pan.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 50 minutes until cooked through and browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating different herbs such as rosemary or oregano into the meat mixture. If you don't have crushed saltine crackers, breadcrumbs or panko can be used as a substitute. To keep the meat moist, ensure not to overmix the ingredients, which can make the loaf tough. This recipe is a great way to utilize leftover ham from holiday meals.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the stuffed rolled meatloaf with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. A tangy barbecue sauce drizzled on top pairs beautifully with the savory filling. For a twist, consider serving it alongside Momma'S Tomato Gravy for a comforting touch that enhances the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the stuffed meatloaf to cool completely before storing. Wrap it in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely with a damp paper towel, heating in short intervals until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stuffed Rolled Meat Loaf contains roughly 732 calories, with 37g protein, 92g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (156% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (88% of the Daily Value), and protein (75% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1851mg per serving (80% 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 meats in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef or turkey for the ham or pork, depending on your preference. Just ensure that the total amount of meat remains the same for proper cooking times. Mixing different meats can also bring a unique flavor profile to the dish.
What can I do if I don't have fresh parsley?
If fresh parsley isn't available, dried parsley can be used as an alternative. Use about one tablespoon of dried parsley in place of the half cup of fresh. Alternatively, other fresh herbs like basil or cilantro can also add a nice touch to the stuffing.
How can I tell when the meatloaf is done?
The best way to check for doneness is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (70°C). Additionally, the meatloaf should be firm to the touch and browned on the outside, ensuring that it is cooked through without being dry.
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).