Greek meatloaf with feta and spinach
Contents
- 1 Greek meatloaf with feta and spinach Ingredients
- 2 How To Make the Meatloaf
- 3 What To serve with the Greek meatloaf with feta and spinach
- 4 Benefits of Eating Greek Meatloaf with Feta and Spinach
- 5 Looking for More Meatloaf Recipes?
- 6 The Recipe
- 7 Greek meatloaf with feta and spinach
- 8 You Might Also Like
- 9 30-day Mediterranean diet meal plan for Beginners
- 10 11 Mediterranean Diet Dinner Recipes
- 11 12 Mediterranean Diet Recipes – for Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
This Greek meatloaf with feta and spinach is a flavorful twist on the classic dish. It’s a wholesome and satisfying main course, packed with fresh spinach, crumbled feta, and aromatic Mediterranean herbs. Pair it with a Greek salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal that transports you to the Mediterranean.
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Greek meatloaf with feta and spinach Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds (700 g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and lamb): A hearty and flavorful base for the Greek Meatloaf with Feta and Spinach. Using a mix of beef and lamb adds depth and a rich Mediterranean flavor profile.
- 1 cup (60 g) fresh spinach, finely chopped: Fresh spinach not only boosts the nutritional value with vitamins and minerals but also adds moisture and a subtle earthy flavor to the meatloaf.
- ½ cup (100 g) crumbled feta cheese: A tangy and creamy cheese that gives a distinct Greek flavor, balancing the savory meat with its salty notes.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and a soft texture to the meatloaf, enhancing its flavor as it caramelizes during cooking.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Garlic brings a bold, aromatic depth that complements the other Mediterranean flavors.
- 1 large egg, beaten: Acts as a binder, holding the meatloaf together and ensuring it stays moist and tender.
- ½ cup (50 g) breadcrumbs (or almond flour for a keto option): Helps absorb excess moisture and provides structure. Almond flour is a great low-carb alternative.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Fresh parsley brightens the dish with its herbal, slightly peppery flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: A quintessential Mediterranean herb with a warm, earthy, and slightly minty flavor.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin: Adds a subtle, warm spiciness that beautifully complements the lamb and beef.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the meat’s natural flavors and other ingredients without overpowering them.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Provides a mild heat and balances the savory elements of the dish.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and keeps the meatloaf moist while imparting a fruity Mediterranean note.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Intensifies the umami flavors and contributes to the glossy glaze on top of the meatloaf.
- ½ cup (120 ml) milk or plain Greek yogurt (optional, for extra moisture): Keeps the meatloaf tender and juicy, especially if using leaner cuts of meat. Greek yogurt adds a slight tanginess.
How To Make the Meatloaf
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.
Sauté the Spinach: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped spinach and cook for 1–2 minutes until wilted. Set aside to cool slightly.
Mix the Meatloaf: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, sautéed spinach, feta cheese, onion, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, parsley, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. If the mixture feels too dry, add milk or Greek yogurt. Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing.
Shape the Meatloaf: Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared baking sheet or loaf pan. Shape into a loaf or flatten slightly for even cooking.
Top and Bake: In a small bowl, mix the remaining olive oil and tomato paste. Spread this mixture over the top of the meatloaf for a flavorful glaze. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Rest and Serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
What To serve with the Greek meatloaf with feta and spinach
A side of tzatziki sauce for dipping.
Roasted potatoes or a Greek salad with cucumber, tomato, and olives.
Enjoy your delicious Greek meatloaf! Let me know if you’d like a photo or nutritional information for this recipe.
Benefits of Eating Greek Meatloaf with Feta and Spinach
Greek Meatloaf with Feta and Spinach is a flavorful Mediterranean twist on the classic comfort food. This dish combines juicy ground meat, nutrient-packed spinach, and tangy feta cheese, infused with aromatic herbs like oregano and parsley. Perfect for a hearty family meal or an elegant dinner, this Greek Meatloaf with Feta and Spinach not only satisfies your taste buds but also offers a wealth of nutrients, making it a wholesome and delicious option for any occasion.
High in Protein
Ground meat (beef or lamb) provides a high-quality protein source essential for muscle growth, repair, and overall energy.
Rich in Iron
The combination of meat and spinach offers a good dose of iron, which supports red blood cell production and helps combat fatigue and anemia.
Boosts Bone Health
Feta cheese and spinach are excellent sources of calcium and Vitamin K, which are crucial for maintaining strong and healthy bones.
Provides Healthy Fats
Olive oil and feta cheese contribute heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and omega-3 fatty acids, promoting cardiovascular health.
Packed with Antioxidants
Spinach contains antioxidants like lutein and beta-carotene, which support eye health and reduce oxidative stress in the body.
Supports Digestion
Breadcrumbs (or almond flour for a keto option) and spinach provide dietary fiber, which aids digestion and supports gut health.
Rich in Essential Vitamins and Minerals
Ingredients like spinach, parsley, and feta cheese contribute vitamins (A, C, and K) and minerals (magnesium, potassium, and calcium) necessary for overall health.
Promotes Heart Health
Spinach is a source of nitrates that help lower blood pressure, and olive oil adds heart-friendly fats, making the dish supportive of cardiovascular health.
Boosts Immune Function
Garlic and onion in the meatloaf provide natural compounds with immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties.
Delivers Long-Lasting Energy
The meatloaf’s protein, fats, and fiber combine to create a balanced dish that provides sustained energy without spiking blood sugar levels.
Looking for More Meatloaf Recipes?
Greek Meatloaf with Tzatziki Sauce
The Recipe
Greek meatloaf with feta and spinach
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds 700 g ground beef (or a mix of beef and lamb)
- 1 cup 60 g fresh spinach, finely chopped
- ½ cup 100 g crumbled feta cheese
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 large egg beaten
- ½ cup 50 g breadcrumbs (or almond flour for a keto option)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- ½ cup 120 ml milk or plain Greek yogurt (optional, for extra moisture)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.
- Sauté the Spinach: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped spinach and cook for 1–2 minutes until wilted. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Mix the Meatloaf: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, sautéed spinach, feta cheese, onion, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, parsley, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. If the mixture feels too dry, add milk or Greek yogurt. Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing.
- Shape the Meatloaf: Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared baking sheet or loaf pan. Shape into a loaf or flatten slightly for even cooking.
- Top and Bake: In a small bowl, mix the remaining olive oil and tomato paste. Spread this mixture over the top of the meatloaf for a flavorful glaze. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Rest and Serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Have you tried this Greek Meatloaf with Feta and Spinach? Leave a comment below!!!
