Cheesy Spinach Meatloaf Delight
Indulge in the rich flavors of our Cheesy Spinach Meatloaf Delight, a hearty dish that perfectly blends lean ground beef with the nutritious goodness of spinach. This tender meatloaf is packed with melted mozzarella cheese, aromatic basil, and a hint of garlic for an irresistible taste. Ideal for family dinners or meal prep, this recipe serves up to 10 people, ensuring there’s plenty to share. The combination of proteins and greens makes it a wholesome choice for any occasion. Enjoy it sliced with your favorite sides or in a sandwich for a delightful leftover treat.
10
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
lean ground beef
2 lbs (raw)
frozen chopped spinach
10 ounces (thawed and well-drained)
dried basil
1/2 teaspoon (dried)
bottled chopped garlic
1/2 teaspoon (bottled)
shredded mozzarella cheese
1 lb (shredded)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the lean ground beef, thawed and well-drained spinach, dried basil, chopped garlic, and shredded mozzarella cheese.
3
Mix everything thoroughly until well combined, ensuring the spinach is evenly distributed throughout the beef and cheese.
4
Transfer the meat mixture into a greased 9x5 loaf pan, pressing it down gently to shape it into a loaf.
5
Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 1 hour, or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) and is cooked through.
6
Once done, allow the meatloaf to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cheesy Spinach Meatloaf Delight?
It is a hearty meatloaf recipe that blends lean ground beef with spinach, mozzarella cheese, and aromatic basil.
How many people does this recipe serve?
This recipe is designed to serve up to 10 people.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
The meatloaf should be baked at 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius.
How much lean ground beef is needed?
You will need 2 pounds of lean ground beef for this recipe.
What type of spinach should I use?
The recipe calls for 10 ounces of frozen chopped spinach that has been thawed and well-drained.
How much mozzarella cheese is included?
This recipe uses 1 pound of shredded mozzarella cheese.
What seasoning is used for the meatloaf?
The meatloaf is seasoned with 1/2 teaspoon of dried basil.
Does the recipe use fresh or bottled garlic?
It uses 1/2 teaspoon of bottled chopped garlic.
How long does the meatloaf take to bake?
The baking time is approximately 1 hour.
What is the target internal temperature?
The meatloaf should reach an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit (70 degrees Celsius).
Does this meatloaf contain breadcrumbs?
No, this recipe does not include breadcrumbs or any grain-based fillers.
Are there eggs in this meatloaf recipe?
No, eggs are not listed as an ingredient in this version of the recipe.
What size pan should I use?
A standard 9x5 inch loaf pan is recommended for baking.
Why must the spinach be well-drained?
Draining the spinach prevents excess moisture from making the meatloaf too soggy.
How long should the meatloaf rest after baking?
It is recommended to let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing.
Can I use fresh garlic instead?
Yes, fresh minced garlic can be used as a substitute for bottled garlic.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Based on the ingredients listed, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
What category does this recipe fall under?
This recipe is categorized under Meat.
How should I prepare the loaf pan?
The loaf pan should be greased before adding the meat mixture.
Can I substitute the mozzarella cheese?
While mozzarella is specified, you could use other melting cheeses like provolone or cheddar.
How do I mix the ingredients?
Combine all ingredients in a large mixing bowl and mix thoroughly until the spinach is evenly distributed.
Is this meatloaf suitable for meal prep?
Yes, with 10 servings and easy reheating, it is an excellent choice for meal prep.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey can be substituted, though it may change the flavor and fat content.
How many ingredients are required?
There are 5 main ingredients: beef, spinach, basil, garlic, and mozzarella cheese.
Can I serve this as a leftover sandwich?
Yes, sliced leftovers work wonderfully in a sandwich for a quick meal.
What should I do if I don't have a loaf pan?
You can shape the meat into a loaf on a rimmed baking sheet, though it may bake slightly faster.
How should leftovers be stored?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Can I add extra spices?
Yes, you can add salt, pepper, or onion powder to customize the flavor further.
Why is resting the meatloaf important?
Resting allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the meatloaf stays moist and is easier to slice.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes, since it contains meat, greens, and cheese with no flour or sugar, it is very low in carbohydrates.