Have you ever wanted to elevate a classic comfort food dish to something truly extraordinary? Look no further than our delicious Florentine Stuffed Meatloaf recipe! This sumptuous dish takes a traditional meatloaf and transforms it into a gourmet masterpiece with layers of savory spinach, creamy cheese, and aromatic herbs. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special gathering, this recipe will truly impress your guests. Let’s dive into creating this show-stopping Florentine Stuffed Meatloaf.
Florentine Stuffed Meatloaf
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs ground beef
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 eggs
– 1 cup milk
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp Italian seasoning
– 1/2 cup marinara sauce
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, onion, garlic, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. On a clean surface or cutting board, place a large piece of plastic wrap. Spread the meat mixture onto the plastic wrap, shaping it into a rectangle about 1/2 inch thick.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning.
5. Spread the spinach and cheese mixture evenly over the meat rectangle, leaving a small border along the edges.
6. Carefully roll the meatloaf, using the plastic wrap to help create a tight roll. Seal the edges by pinching the meat together.
7. Place the meatloaf seam side down on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the top with marinara sauce.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
9. Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
10. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve slices of this decadent Florentine Stuffed Meatloaf on a platter.
Florentine Stuffed Meatloaf is a surefire way to impress your loved ones with a gourmet twist on a classic favorite. The layers of cheese and spinach meld perfectly with the flavorful meat, creating a dish that is as beautiful as it is delicious. Whether you’re planning a cozy family meal or entertaining guests, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit. Enjoy the process of crafting this culinary masterpiece and savor every bite of this mouthwatering Florentine Stuffed Meatloaf!
