Stukas' Meat Loaf
A savory meat loaf rolled with spinach, cheese, and herbs, offering a flavorful and hearty dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Take the hamburger, add 2 eggs and breadcrumbs, and mix by hand.
- Roll out the mixture between two pieces of wax paper until 1/2-inch thick.
- Spread the spinach, Monterey Jack cheese, 1 egg, Parmesan cheese, Ranch dressing, and dried basil evenly over the flattened hamburger.
- Roll up the hamburger mixture like a jelly roll to form a loaf.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake at 375°F for 45 minutes covered.
- Uncover and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a moister meatloaf, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or using ground turkey instead of hamburger. If you don't have Progresso breadcrumbs, crushed crackers or oats work well as substitutes. You can also experiment with different cheeses, like cheddar or pepper jack, for added flavor. Fresh spinach can replace frozen if you prefer a fresher taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meatloaf sliced with a side of mashed potatoes or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. It also pairs beautifully with Vinegar Baked Beans for a hearty dinner. Consider garnishing with fresh herbs for added color and flavor. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and place it in a microwave-safe dish, covering it with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out. Heat on medium power until warmed through, about 2-3 minutes, or in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stukas' Meat Loaf contains roughly 722 calories, with 18g protein, 140g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (43% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (42% of the Daily Value), and protein (37% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 775mg per serving (34% 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 meatloaf?
Yes, you can freeze the meatloaf before or after baking. To freeze before baking, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. When ready to cook, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. If frozen after baking, slice and store in an airtight container for up to 3 months, and reheat as needed.
What can I use instead of Ranch dressing?
If you don't have Ranch dressing, you can substitute with a mixture of sour cream, mayonnaise, and herbs like dill and garlic powder. Alternatively, a homemade vinaigrette or yogurt-based dressing can also work well to add flavor to the meatloaf filling.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this meatloaf gluten-free, simply replace the Progresso breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground oats. Ensure that your Worcestershire sauce and any other sauces used are also gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy this delicious dish while accommodating gluten sensitivities.
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).