Name: Greek Meatloaf with Spinach and Feta Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: For Meatloaf Mixture:; vegetable oil spray; 1 tbsp olive oil; 2 cloves garlic; 5 cups baby spinach leaves; 2 large eggs; 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs; ¾ tsp ground cinnamon; ¾ tsp ground coriander; 1 Zest of lemon; 1 tsp kosher salt; ¼ tsp black pepper; ½ cup parsley; 2 lbs Ground Beef; ¼ lb block of feta; For Glaze:; 2 tbsp pomegranate molasses; 2 tbsp ketchup; 2 tbsp pistachios; 2 tbsp parsley

Indulge in a Greek twist on an American classic: the meatloaf. This meatloaf is made special with the addition of baby spinach and feta cheese. It's a unique, flavorful, and truly satisfying dish, perfect for a family dinner or a festive occasion.

Photos of Greek Meatloaf with Spinach and Feta Recipe

Most of these ingredients might be found in your pantry, but there are a few you might want to double-check before you start cooking. Panko breadcrumbs are Japanese-style breadcrumbs, which are coarser compared to regular breadcrumbs. Pomegranate molasses, which is used for the glaze, is a thick, tart syrup made from pomegranate juice. It can usually be found in the international aisle of the supermarket. If you're unable to find it, a mixture of regular molasses and lemon juice can be a substitute.

Greek Spinach and Feta Meatloaf Ingredients

Vegetable oil spray: Used to prevent sticking and create a nice crust on the meatloaf.

Olive oil: An essential in Greek cuisine, used to sauté the spinach and garlic.

Garlic: Adds a flavor base to the meatloaf.

Baby spinach leaves: They will wilt down during cooking and add a delicate flavor and nutritional boost to the meatloaf.

Eggs: They bind the meatloaf ingredients together.

Panko breadcrumbs: These Japanese breadcrumbs add a light, airy texture to the meatloaf.

Ground cinnamon and coriander: Spices that add depth of flavor.

Lemon zest: Adds a fresh and citrusy note.

Kosher salt and black pepper: Basic seasonings to enhance all the other flavors.

Parsley: A fresh herb that adds color and flavor.

Ground beef: The main protein of the meatloaf. Opt for a mix of lean and fat for a moist meatloaf.

Feta: This Greek cheese adds a tangy flavor and creamy texture.

Pomegranate molasses: Makes up part of the glaze, giving it a sweet-tart taste.

Ketchup: Adds sweetness and tanginess to the glaze.

Pistachios: These are optional for garnishing, adding a nice crunch and a touch of class to the dish.

One reader, Doralia Bristol says:

This Greek spinach and feta meatloaf recipe is a game-changer! The combination of flavors is simply divine. The meatloaf is juicy and the feta adds a delightful tang. The glaze is the perfect finishing touch. It's a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their meatloaf game!

Doralia Bristol

Essential Techniques for Making Greek Spinach and Feta Meatloaf

How to cook the spinach and garlic: In a large pan, combine the oil and garlic. Set the pan over medium heat. When the garlic sizzles, cook and stir it for 30 seconds. Add the spinach to the pan and cook, stirring, for 1 to 2 minutes, or until it wilts. Let it cool.

How to make the meatloaf mixture: In a large bowl, stir together the eggs, panko, cinnamon, coriander, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Stir in the parsley and the cooked spinach. Add the beef and stir until combined. Then, add the feta cubes and stir gently to keep the cubes in large pieces.

How to make the glaze for the meatloaf: In a small bowl, mix the ketchup and pomegranate molasses.

How to bake the meatloaf: Transfer the meat mixture to the loaf pan and smooth the top. Set the pan on a baking sheet and bake for about 45 to 50 minutes. Remove from the oven and pour the glaze over the top of the meatloaf. Return and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes, or until an instant-read thermometer registers 160ºF when inserted into the center of the loaf. Continue baking for a few more minutes if the meatloaf is not quite done.

How to cool the meatloaf: Let the meatloaf cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes. Run the side of a knife around the edge of the pan. Carefully lift the meatloaf from the pan with a thin spatula and transfer it to a serving platter.

How to serve: Slice and serve with a green vegetable and baked potatoes, if you like. Leftovers will keep for 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator.

How To Make Greek Meatloaf with Spinach and Feta

Feta, spinach, and pomegranate molasses give this Greek meatloaf its distinct Mediterranean flavor. The result is a savory, garlicky, & slightly tangy dish.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 1 hour

Rest Time: 15 minutes

Total: 1 hour 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Meatloaf Mixture:

vegetable oil spray,for the pan
1tbspolive oil
2clovesgarlic,finely chopped
5cupsbaby spinach leaves,(5 oz), packed
2largeeggs
1cuppanko breadcrumbs
¾tspground cinnamon
¾tspground coriander
1zest of lemon,finely grated
1tspkosher salt
¼tspblack pepper
½cupparsley,chopped
2lbsground beef
¼lbfeta,cut into ½ inch cubes

For Glaze:

2tbsppomegranate molasses
2tbspketchup
2tbsppistachios,chopped, for garnish
2tbspparsley,chopped, for garnish

Instructions

Place a rack in the middle of the oven and preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Spray a 9×5-inch loaf pan with vegetable oil spray.
In a large pan, combine the oil and garlic. Set the pan over medium heat. When the garlic sizzles, cook and stir it for 30 seconds. Add the spinach to the pan, and cook, stirring, for 1 to 2 minutes, or until it wilts. Let cool.
In a large bowl, stir together the eggs, panko, cinnamon, coriander, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Stir in the parsley and the cooked spinach.
Add the beef and stir until combined. Add the feta cubes and stir gently to keep the cubes in large pieces.
In a small bowl, mix the ketchup and pomegranate molasses.
Transfer the meat mixture to the loaf pan and smooth the top. Set the pan on a baking sheet and bake for about 45 to 50 minutes. Remove from the oven and pour the glaze over the top of the meatloaf.
Return and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes, or until an instant-read thermometer registers 160 degrees F when inserted into the center of the loaf. Continue baking for a few more minutes if the meatloaf is not quite done.
Let the meatloaf cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes. Run the side of a knife around the edge of the pan.
Carefully lift the meatloaf from the pan with a thin spatula and transfer to a serving platter. Sprinkle the chopped pistachios and parsley over the top.
Slice and serve with a green vegetable and baked potatoes, if desired. Leftover will keep for 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Nutrition

Calories: 592.36kcal
Fat: 43.03g
Saturated Fat: 15.50g
Trans Fat: 1.82g
Monounsaturated Fat: 19.53g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.41g
Carbohydrates: 17.79g
Fiber: 1.58g
Sugar: 8.15g
Protein: 32.92g
Cholesterol: 186.17mg
Sodium: 566.21mg
Calcium: 193.52mg
Potassium: 692.41mg
Iron: 4.69mg
Vitamin A: 123.99µg
Vitamin C: 16.55mg

Insider Tip for Perfecting Greek Spinach and Feta Meatloaf

When incorporating the feta into the meatloaf mixture, it's important to stir gently to keep the cheese in large chunks. This will ensure that you get pockets of melted, creamy feta in every slice of the meatloaf, enhancing the overall flavor and texture. Additionally, when glazing the meatloaf, try to spread the glaze evenly over the top to ensure every bite has a touch of the sweet and tangy pomegranate-ketchup mixture.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Greek Spinach and Feta Meatloaf Recipe

Prep ahead: Prepare the spinach and garlic mixture the day before and store it in the refrigerator. This will save time on the day of cooking.

Use food processor: Use a food processor to chop the spinach, garlic, and parsley quickly and evenly.

Double the recipe: Make two meatloaves and freeze one for later. This way, you'll have a ready-made meal for a busy day.

Pre-measure ingredients: Pre-measure all the ingredients before starting the recipe to streamline the cooking process.

Cook in muffin tins: Instead of a loaf pan, portion the meatloaf mixture into muffin tins for individual servings, reducing the cooking time.

Prep the glaze in advance: Mix the glaze ingredients ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Substitute Ingredients For Greek Meatloaf with Spinach and Feta Recipe

vegetable oil spray - Substitute with olive oil spray: Olive oil spray can provide a similar flavor and can be used in the same way as vegetable oil spray.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a mild flavor and high smoke point, making it a suitable substitute for olive oil in this recipe.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can provide a similar aromatic flavor to garlic and can be used as a substitute in this recipe.
baby spinach leaves - Substitute with kale leaves: Kale leaves can be used as a substitute for spinach, providing a similar texture and flavor in the meatloaf.
eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Flax eggs can be used as a vegan substitute for eggs in this recipe, providing binding properties similar to eggs.
panko breadcrumbs - Substitute with gluten-free breadcrumbs: Gluten-free breadcrumbs can be used as a substitute for panko breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version of the meatloaf.
ground cinnamon - Substitute with allspice: Allspice can provide a similar warm and aromatic flavor to cinnamon in the meatloaf mixture.
ground coriander - Substitute with cumin: Cumin can be used as a substitute for ground coriander, providing a warm and earthy flavor to the meatloaf.
lemon zest - Substitute with orange zest: Orange zest can provide a similar citrusy flavor and aroma to the meatloaf as a substitute for lemon zest.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a substitute for kosher salt, providing a similar level of saltiness to the meatloaf mixture.
black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper can be used as a substitute for black pepper, providing a milder and slightly different flavor to the meatloaf.
parsley - Substitute with cilantro: Cilantro can provide a similar fresh and herbaceous flavor to the meatloaf as a substitute for parsley.
ground beef - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef in the meatloaf recipe.
feta - Substitute with goat cheese: Goat cheese can be used as a substitute for feta, providing a tangy and creamy flavor to the meatloaf.
pomegranate molasses - Substitute with balsamic glaze: Balsamic glaze can provide a similar sweet and tangy flavor to the glaze for the meatloaf.
ketchup - Substitute with tomato paste: Tomato paste can be used as a substitute for ketchup in the glaze, providing a concentrated tomato flavor.
pistachios - Substitute with walnuts: Walnuts can be used as a substitute for pistachios, providing a similar nutty flavor and texture to the meatloaf glaze.
parsley - Substitute with chives: Chives can provide a similar fresh and mild onion flavor as a substitute for parsley in the meatloaf glaze.

Presentation Ideas for a Delightful Meatloaf Experience

Elevate the meatloaf: Gently shape the meatloaf into a beautiful, uniform shape to give it a professional and polished appearance.
Garnish with vibrant greens: Add a pop of color and freshness by garnishing the meatloaf with a sprinkle of finely chopped parsley and a few whole spinach leaves.
Drizzle with glaze: Artfully drizzle the pomegranate molasses and ketchup glaze over the top of the meatloaf, creating an elegant and glossy finish.
Sprinkle with crushed pistachios: Add a touch of sophistication by sprinkling the top of the meatloaf with crushed pistachios, providing a delightful crunch and visual appeal.
Slice with precision: When serving, slice the meatloaf with precision to showcase the beautiful layers of spinach, feta, and beef in each portion.
Plate with finesse: Carefully place each slice on the plate, ensuring it is presented with finesse and attention to detail.
Accompany with complementary sides: Serve the meatloaf alongside a vibrant green vegetable and perfectly baked potatoes to create a visually stunning and well-balanced plate.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Greek Spinach and Feta Meatloaf

Vegetable oil spray: Used for greasing the loaf pan to prevent the meatloaf from sticking.
Loaf pan: Used for shaping and baking the meatloaf.
Large pan: Used for cooking the spinach and garlic.
Large bowl: Used for mixing the meatloaf ingredients.
Small bowl: Used for mixing the glaze for the meatloaf.
Baking sheet: Placed under the loaf pan to catch any drips and prevent a mess in the oven.
Instant-read thermometer: Used to check the internal temperature of the meatloaf to ensure it is fully cooked.
Thin spatula: Used for lifting the meatloaf from the pan and transferring it to a serving platter.

Storage and Freezing Guidelines for Greek Spinach and Feta Meatloaf

Let the meatloaf cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and making the meatloaf soggy.
To store in the refrigerator, wrap the cooled meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place it in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To freeze, wrap the cooled meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. Place the wrapped meatloaf in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
Frozen meatloaf can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw the meatloaf overnight in the refrigerator.
To reheat, place the thawed meatloaf in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. If you prefer a crispy top, remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes of reheating.
If you have leftover meatloaf, you can also slice it and freeze individual portions for quick and easy meals later. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. To reheat, unwrap the desired number of slices and microwave or heat in a skillet until warmed through.

How to Reheat Leftover Greek Spinach and Feta Meatloaf

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover meatloaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Cover the meatloaf with another piece of foil to prevent it from drying out. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to crisp up the exterior.
Slice the leftover meatloaf into 1-inch thick pieces. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the meatloaf slices and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until heated through and slightly crispy on the outside. This method is perfect for achieving a crispy exterior while keeping the inside moist and flavorful.
If you're in a hurry, you can reheat the meatloaf in the microwave. Place a slice of meatloaf on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the meatloaf to become tough and dry.
For a unique twist, crumble the leftover meatloaf and use it as a filling for stuffed peppers or zucchini boats. Mix the crumbled meatloaf with some tomato sauce, feta cheese, and cooked rice or quinoa. Stuff the mixture into hollowed-out vegetables and bake until the vegetables are tender and the filling is heated through.
Transform your leftover meatloaf into a delicious sandwich. Slice the meatloaf thinly and place it between two slices of your favorite bread. Add some tzatziki sauce, sliced tomatoes, and red onions for a Greek-inspired sandwich. Grill the sandwich in a panini press or on a skillet until the bread is crispy and the meatloaf is heated through.

Interesting Trivia About Greek Spinach and Feta Meatloaf

Greek spinach and feta meatloaf is a delicious twist on the classic meatloaf recipe. It combines the flavors of spinach, feta, and a hint of cinnamon and coriander for a unique and tasty dish. This recipe is a great way to incorporate more greens into your diet while still enjoying a hearty and satisfying meal. Plus, the addition of pomegranate molasses in the glaze adds a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the savory meatloaf perfectly. It's a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides, making it a great option for a family dinner or special occasion.

Is Making Greek Spinach and Feta Meatloaf at Home Cost-Effective?

This Greek Spinach and Feta Meatloaf recipe offers a high degree of cost-effectiveness for a household. The combination of spinach, ground beef, and feta provides a balance of affordability and nutrition. With an approximate cost of $20, this hearty dish serves 4, making it a budget-friendly option at around $5 per serving. The use of simple, readily available ingredients enhances its economic appeal. Overall Verdict: 9/10

Is This Greek Spinach and Feta Meatloaf Recipe Healthy?

The Greek spinach and feta meatloaf recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, it includes nutrient-rich ingredients such as:

Spinach, which is high in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and calcium
Garlic, known for its anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties
Lean ground beef, providing a good source of protein
Feta cheese, offering calcium and beneficial probiotics

However, the recipe also contains some less healthy components:

Panko breadcrumbs, which are refined and lack fiber
Ketchup and pomegranate molasses in the glaze, adding sugar and calories
A relatively high amount of salt, which may be a concern for those with hypertension

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Replace half of the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken to reduce the fat content
Use whole wheat breadcrumbs or rolled oats instead of panko to increase the fiber
Reduce the amount of salt and let the natural flavors of the ingredients shine through
Experiment with a sugar-free or reduced-sugar ketchup in the glaze
Serve the meatloaf with a side salad or roasted vegetables to boost the overall nutrient content of the meal

By incorporating more vegetables, using leaner meats, and opting for whole grain alternatives, you can enhance the nutritional value of this delicious and comforting meatloaf. The addition of spinach and feta already sets this recipe apart from traditional meatloaf, and with a few tweaks, it can become an even healthier option for you and your family to enjoy.

Editor's Opinion: Thoughts on Greek Spinach and Feta Meatloaf Recipe

The Greek spinach and feta meatloaf recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors. The combination of spinach, feta, and aromatic spices creates a tantalizing blend that elevates the classic meatloaf. The addition of pomegranate molasses in the glaze adds a sweet and tangy note, complementing the savory meatloaf beautifully. The use of pistachios and parsley as a garnish adds a delightful crunch and freshness to each bite. This recipe is a wonderful way to introduce Mediterranean flavors into a comforting and familiar dish, making it a delightful addition to any dinner table.

Enhance Your Greek Meatloaf with Spinach and Feta Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of roasted garlic, perfect for pairing with the flavorful Greek spinach and feta meatloaf.

Honey Glazed Carrots and Parsnips: Sweet and savory honey glazed carrots and parsnips, a colorful and delicious side dish to accompany the Greek spinach and feta meatloaf.

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Tender grilled asparagus spears with a bright and zesty lemon flavor, a refreshing and healthy side to serve alongside the Greek spinach and feta meatloaf.

Delicious Alternatives to Greek Spinach and Feta Meatloaf

Mediterranean Stuffed Bell Peppers: Use a mixture of ground lamb, rice, and Mediterranean spices to stuff bell peppers, then bake until tender. Top with a dollop of tzatziki sauce for a refreshing finish.

Lemon Garlic Roasted Chicken: Marinate chicken in a mixture of lemon, garlic, and herbs, then roast until golden and juicy. Serve with roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: Combine chia seeds, coconut milk, and fresh mango for a creamy and tropical dessert. Top with toasted coconut flakes for added texture and flavor.

Appetizer and Dessert Ideas to Complement Greek Spinach and Feta Meatloaf

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing large mushroom caps with a flavorful mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. Top with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese and bake until golden and bubbly.

Bruschetta: Elevate your appetizer game with crispy slices of toasted baguette topped with a vibrant mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and balsamic glaze. Serve as a refreshing and light start to any meal.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth texture and intense chocolate flavor will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Apple Crisp: Enjoy the warm and comforting flavors of a homemade apple crisp, with tender baked apples and a crispy oat topping. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.

Why trust this Greek Meatloaf with Spinach and Feta Recipe:

This recipe for Greek Spinach and Feta Meatloaf is a delightful twist on a classic dish, combining spinach and feta with aromatic spices and a tangy glaze. The use of fresh baby spinach and high-quality feta ensures a burst of flavor in every bite. The addition of pomegranate molasses in the glaze adds a unique and delightful sweetness. The step-by-step instructions and the combination of traditional Greek flavors make this recipe a trustworthy and delicious choice for anyone looking to elevate their meatloaf game.

Have you tried this Greek Meatloaf with Spinach and Feta Recipe? Share your experience and any tips or modifications in the Recipe Sharing forum section.

FAQ:

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh spinach?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach instead of fresh spinach. Make sure to thaw and drain the frozen spinach before using it in the recipe. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly to account for the moisture content of the frozen spinach.

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef in this recipe. The flavors will still blend well with the other ingredients, providing a delicious twist to the dish.

Can I prepare the meatloaf mixture in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture in advance. Simply cover and refrigerate it until you are ready to bake. This can be a time-saving option for busy days or when hosting a gathering.

Can I substitute the pomegranate molasses with something else?

If you don't have pomegranate molasses, you can substitute it with a mixture of equal parts of honey and lemon juice. This will provide a similar sweet and tangy flavor to the glaze.

Can I freeze the meatloaf?

Yes, you can freeze the meatloaf. Once it has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. Thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.