When it comes to comfort food, few dishes are as satisfying and hearty as a stuffed minced meat roll. This dish combines the rich flavors of ground beef, fresh spinach, savory mushrooms, and melted mozzarella, all wrapped into a beautifully rolled-up meatloaf-style creation. The result is a mouthwatering, juicy meat roll stuffed with ingredients that complement the beef perfectly. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this stuffed meat roll is guaranteed to impress.
In this article, we will explore how to prepare this delicious stuffed ground beef roll, as well as some tips and variations for creating the perfect meat wrap roll-ups.
What Is a Stuffed Minced Meat Roll?
A stuffed minced meat roll, also known as a meat roll or meatloaf roll, is a variation of the traditional meatloaf, but instead of the usual loaf shape, the ground meat is rolled up around a flavorful filling. This filling can consist of various ingredients, such as vegetables, cheeses, and spices. The concept of meat rolls stuffed with spinach, mushrooms, and mozzarella combines the tenderness of ground beef with the rich, earthy flavors of vegetables and the gooey, cheesy goodness of mozzarella.
A meatloaf roll stuffed with spinach, mushrooms, and mozzarella takes this classic idea to the next level, making it a more sophisticated yet simple-to-prepare meal. The combination of ground beef and mozzarella provides a comforting, savory filling, while the spinach and mushrooms add depth and texture to the dish.
Ingredients for Stuffed Minced Meat Roll with Spinach, Mushrooms, and Mozzarella
For the Meat Roll:
- 1 lb ground beef (minced meat)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for searing the meat roll)
For the Stuffing:
- 2 cups fresh spinach (chopped)
- 1 cup mushrooms (sliced)
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- 1/4 cup ricotta cheese (optional for a creamier texture)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing the vegetables)
- 1 garlic clove (minced)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- 1/4 cup marinara sauce (or your preferred tomato sauce)
- Extra shredded mozzarella cheese (for sprinkling on top)
Instructions for Preparing Stuffed Minced Meat Roll with Spinach, Mushrooms, and Mozzarella
Step 1: Prepare the Stuffing
Start by preparing the stuffing for the minced meat roll. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the mushrooms release their moisture and become tender.
Next, add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the mixture from the heat and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Once cooled, stir in the shredded mozzarella and ricotta cheese (if using). The mixture should be creamy and thick, with the cheese melting into the vegetables. Set the stuffing aside while you prepare the meat roll.
Step 2: Prepare the Ground Beef Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated parmesan cheese, egg, chopped parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined. The breadcrumbs and egg will help bind the meat together, while the cheese and herbs add flavor.
Step 3: Roll Out the Meat
Lay a large sheet of parchment paper on a flat surface or countertop. Place the ground beef mixture onto the parchment paper and use your hands to flatten it into a rectangular shape. The meat should be about 1/2 inch thick, making sure the edges are even.
Step 4: Add the Stuffing
Once the meat is rolled out, spread the spinach and mushroom mixture evenly over the entire surface of the meat, leaving a small border around the edges. Be careful not to overstuff, as the filling may spill out during the rolling process.
Step 5: Roll the Meat
Starting from one end, carefully lift the edge of the parchment paper and begin rolling the meat into a log shape, like a traditional meatloaf roll. Gently roll it up, ensuring the filling is sealed inside. The parchment paper will help you keep the roll together without the filling spilling out. Once you reach the end, press the seam to seal it closed.
Step 6: Sear the Meat Roll
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the meat roll in the skillet. Sear it on all sides for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until the outside is browned and crispy. This step helps to lock in the flavors and juices of the meat before baking.
Step 7: Bake the Meat Roll
Once the meat roll is seared, transfer it to a baking dish. Pour the marinara sauce over the top of the roll, then sprinkle with additional shredded mozzarella cheese. This will create a delicious cheesy crust on top of the meat roll as it bakes. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the meat is cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 160°F or 71°C).
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once the meat roll is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and allow it to rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This will help the juices settle and make for cleaner slices. Slice the stuffed minced meat roll into thick, hearty portions, and serve with your favorite side dishes. You can pair it with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad for a complete meal.
Variations and Tips for Making Meat Rolls Stuffed with Spinach, Mushrooms, and Mozzarella
1. Add Other Vegetables to the Stuffing
While spinach and mushrooms are a classic combination, you can easily switch up the stuffing by adding other vegetables to suit your taste. Try incorporating roasted red peppers, zucchini, or even sautéed onions for added flavor and texture. These vegetables can be mixed in with the spinach and mushrooms to create a more complex flavor profile.
2. Use Ground Turkey or Chicken
For a lighter version of this recipe, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. These lean meats will still provide great flavor and a satisfying texture while lowering the fat content. You may want to add a bit of extra seasoning to compensate for the milder flavor of turkey or chicken.
3. Try Different Cheeses
While mozzarella is a great choice for this recipe, you can experiment with other cheeses for different flavor profiles. Try using gouda, cheddar, or provolone for a more intense cheese flavor. You could also add crumbled feta cheese for a tangy, Mediterranean twist.
4. Make Mini Meat Rolls
If you’re serving a smaller crowd or prefer individual servings, consider making mini meat rolls instead of one large roll. Simply divide the meat mixture into smaller portions, stuff each one with the spinach and mushroom mixture, and roll them up. These individual meat rolls will bake faster and can be served as a fun, bite-sized appetizer or main course.
Conclusion: A Versatile and Flavorful Meat Roll Recipe
The stuffed minced meat roll with spinach, mushrooms, and mozzarella is a delicious and versatile dish that combines the rich flavor of ground beef with the fresh, earthy taste of vegetables and the gooey goodness of melted cheese. It’s a wonderful twist on traditional meatloaf that can be customized to suit your tastes and preferences.
Whether you’re looking for a hearty family meal or an impressive dish for guests, this meat roll recipe will surely become a favorite in your home. With its tender, flavorful meat, creamy filling, and cheesy topping, this stuffed meatloaf roll is perfect for any occasion.
Try making this stuffed ground beef roll for your next dinner and enjoy the delicious combination of flavors in every bite. Whether you’re serving it with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a light salad, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings for comfort food.
