Imagine coming home to the delicious aroma of a hearty Meat Loaf Florentine baking in the oven. With its flavorful blend of ground beef, spices, and spinach, this classic dish is sure to become a family favorite. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this recipe combines the comfort of meatloaf with the added nutrients of spinach, making it a satisfying and nutritious choice for any day of the week.
**Meat Loaf Florentine**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/3 cup milk
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon pepper
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 cup chopped frozen spinach, thawed and excess water squeezed out
– 1/2 cup marinara sauce
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a loaf pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to gently mix the ingredients until well combined.
3. Add the beaten egg to the meat mixture and continue to mix until the egg is fully incorporated.
4. Gently fold in the thawed and drained spinach, being careful not to overmix.
5. Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan and shape it into a loaf.
6. Spread the marinara sauce evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
7. Cover the loaf pan with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
8. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches 160°F (71°C).
9. Once cooked through, remove the Meat Loaf Florentine from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
10. Serve slices of the Meat Loaf Florentine with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables, and enjoy the comforting flavors of this wholesome meal.
Meat Loaf Florentine is a versatile dish that can be easily customized to suit your preferences. Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to the meat mixture for a unique twist, or swap out the spinach for kale or Swiss chard for a different flavor profile. This recipe is also a great way to sneak in some extra veggies for picky eaters who may not be fond of greens.
Prepare this Meat Loaf Florentine ahead of time and store any leftovers in the fridge for a convenient and delicious meal prep option. Simply reheat slices in the microwave or oven for a quick and satisfying meal during the week.
The next time you’re craving a comforting meal that’s easy to make and full of flavor, give this Meat Loaf Florentine recipe a try. Your family and friends will love the savory taste and nourishing ingredients that make this dish a standout choice for any occasion.
