Savory Meatloaf with Cheese and Egg in Buttery Pastry Crust

Recipe Name: Meatloaf in a Box
Category: Main Dishes
Servings: 10

Ingredients

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Begin by preparing the pastry dough for the crust. In a food processor, add the flour, cold butter cut into pieces, and a pinch of salt. Pulse until the mixture reaches a sandy, floury consistency.

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2. Once the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, turn it out onto a clean surface, forming a mound. Create a well in the center and slowly incorporate the cold water, adding a little at a time. Quickly knead the mixture to form a smooth dough.

3. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest in the fridge while you prepare the meatloaf filling.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatloaf Filling

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, diced bacon, mortadella, and crumbled stale bread. Grate the Pecorino and Parmigiano Reggiano cheeses and add them to the mixture.

2. Add the 4 whole eggs, chopped fresh parsley, marjoram, grated nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together with a wooden spoon until fully combined, making sure the ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Assemble the Meatloaf

1. Roll out the prepared pastry dough on a floured surface to form a thin rectangular sheet. Line a loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving extra paper hanging on the sides to make removal easier.

2. Grease the pan with butter, then line it with the rolled-out dough, pressing gently with a rolling pin to fit it snugly into the corners.

3. Gently press 4 boiled eggs into the center of the dough, ensuring they are evenly spaced. Cover the eggs with the prepared meat mixture, pressing it down into the pan.

4. Fold any excess dough over the top of the meatloaf, sealing the edges. Trim any excess dough and press the edges firmly to close.

Step 4: Bake the Meatloaf

1. Beat one egg with a tablespoon of milk and brush it generously over the top of the dough, ensuring an even coat for a golden, crispy finish.

2. Optionally, roll out any leftover dough and cut it into small leaf shapes to decorate the top of the meatloaf for a decorative touch.

3. Preheat the oven to 160°C (320°F), and bake the meatloaf for approximately 60 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is fully cooked.

4. Once done, remove the meatloaf from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before carefully lifting it out of the pan using the parchment paper. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Step 5: Serve

Slice the meatloaf into thick portions and serve it with your favorite sides. This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. Enjoy!

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Tips

• Customization: Feel free to swap out the Mortadella for a different type of Italian sausage if you prefer a different flavor profile.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the meatloaf a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking. This can enhance the flavors as the mixture rests.
• Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, substitute the meat with a combination of finely chopped mushrooms, lentils, and a plant-based sausage.

This meatloaf is a hearty, flavorful main dish that’s perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or a special occasion. The rich flavors of the cheeses and the savory combination of meats and herbs make it a true crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!