🍽️ Aromatic and Cheese Stuffed Meatloaf 🧀
What is it?
Aromatic and Cheese Stuffed Meatloaf is a delectable dish that combines ground meat, aromatic spices, and a delightful surprise of gooey cheese in the center. This hearty main course offers a fusion of flavors and textures, making it a favorite for meat lovers.
History:
The origins of meatloaf can be traced back to various cultures, but it became particularly popular in the United States during the 20th century. Meatloaf recipes have evolved over the years, with cooks adding various ingredients to customize the flavor. The idea of stuffing meatloaf with cheese and aromatic spices is a modern twist on this classic comfort food.
Components:
- 1.5 pounds of ground beef (or a mixture of ground meats like pork, veal, and beef)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4-6 slices of your favorite cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or provolone work well)
Steps to Prepare:
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Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Prepare the Meat Mixture:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, milk, grated Parmesan cheese, eggs, diced onions, diced bell peppers, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper.
- Mix everything thoroughly until it forms a well-combined meat mixture.
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Form the Meatloaf:
- Take about half of the meat mixture and flatten it into a rectangle on a clean surface.
- Place slices of cheese on top, leaving some space around the edges.
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Shape the Meatloaf:
- Carefully fold the sides of the meat over the cheese to encase it.
- Shape it into a loaf, ensuring the cheese is in the center.
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Complete the Meatloaf:
- Place the stuffed meatloaf into a baking dish or onto a baking sheet.
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Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for ground beef.
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Rest and Serve:
- Let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Serve your aromatic and cheese stuffed meatloaf with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables.
Preparation Time:
- It takes approximately 15-20 minutes to prepare the ingredients and mix the meatloaf.
- Baking the meatloaf usually takes about 1 hour, so the total preparation time is around 1 hour and 15-20 minutes.
This dish is a delightful and comforting choice for a family dinner, and the surprise of gooey cheese in the center makes it a real crowd-pleaser. Enjoy your Aromatic and Cheese Stuffed Meatloaf! 🍴😋
Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Aromatic and Cheese Stuffed Meatloaf:
Nutrition Facts (Approximate, Per Serving):
- Calories: 350-400
- Protein: 25-30 grams
- Carbohydrates: 15-20 grams
- Sugars: 2-4 grams
- Fat: 20-25 grams
- Saturated Fat: 8-10 grams
- Cholesterol: 100-120 mg
- Fiber: 1-2 grams
- Sodium: 400-500 mg
Health Information:
- Protein: This dish is a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle health and overall bodily functions.
- Carbohydrates: The carbohydrates in the recipe mainly come from breadcrumbs. If you’re looking to reduce carb intake, you can use almond meal or other low-carb alternatives.
- Fiber: The recipe doesn’t contain a high amount of fiber. Consider serving it with fiber-rich sides like vegetables or a salad for a balanced meal.
- Saturated Fat: The saturated fat content is relatively high due to the cheese and meat. If you’re concerned about saturated fat, you can opt for leaner ground meat and reduced-fat cheese.
- Sodium: The sodium content can vary depending on the specific ingredients you use. You can reduce it by using low-sodium options.
As with any recipe, moderation is key. Aromatic and Cheese Stuffed Meatloaf can be a delicious and satisfying meal, but it’s important to balance it with other nutrient-rich foods and be mindful of individual dietary preferences and restrictions.
