Ukrainian Meat Loaf
Ukrainian Meat Loaf features tender ground beef layered with cabbage and bacon, baked in a savory tomato sauce, offering hearty flavors perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut cabbage into quarters and remove cores.
- Cover with boiling water and cook for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Drain the cabbage and set aside.
- In a bowl, mix ground beef, beef broth, parsley flakes, and minced onion.
- Line the bottom of a loaf pan with 2 strips of bacon.
- Layer cabbage over the bacon, then add a layer of the meat mixture.
- Alternate layers of cabbage and meat mixture, ending with the meat layer on top.
- Cover the top with 3 strips of bacon.
- Mix tomato sauce, sugar, and Worcestershire sauce; pour over the assembled meat loaf.
- Bake in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 1 hour.
- Remove from oven and place on a cake rack.
- Allow to set for about 15 minutes or remove from the pan and turn out onto foil.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating herbs like thyme or dill into the meat mixture. If you don't have beef broth, chicken broth works as a suitable substitute. To save time, use pre-cooked bacon or even turkey bacon for a lighter option. Ensure the cabbage is tender but not mushy for the best texture. This recipe is a unique twist on traditional meatloaf, reminiscent of comfort food like Lancashire Hot Pot.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meat loaf with a side of mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. A fresh salad, like Oldies And Youngies Salad, can provide a nice contrast to the hearty dish. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with roasted vegetables or a simple steamed green like broccoli or green beans.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Ukrainian meat loaf can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, slice the loaf and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual slices for convenience, but be cautious not to overheat them to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ukrainian Meat Loaf contains roughly 291 calories, with 24g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (49% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (29% of the Daily Value), and iron (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1339mg per serving (58% 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 ground beef. Just ensure the meat is lean to avoid excess grease. Each option will impart a different flavor profile, so choose one that suits your taste preferences.
How do I know when the meat loaf is done baking?
The meat loaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). You can check this using a meat thermometer inserted into the center. Additionally, the top should be nicely browned, and juices should run clear when the meat loaf is sliced.
Can I freeze the meat loaf for later use?
Absolutely! Once baked and cooled, wrap the meat loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating it in the oven for best results.
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).