Ground Meat Bake with Cheese and Ham Filling

This delicious ground meat bake filled with cheese and ham is a savory delight perfect for any occasion. The heart of the dish lies in its succulent mixed ground meat, delicately seasoned for a flavorful experience. A melted cheese layer runs through the center, introduced by ham slices for added depth and taste. Wrapped in a fragrant meat mixture and baked to perfection, the dish offers a delightful blend of textures. A top layer ensures all the juices and aromas are sealed in, giving it a rich flavor profile. Completed with a golden crust, it's a meal that's both fulfilling and comforting. This recipe pairs beautifully with fresh vegetables and creamy mashed potatoes. Ideal for gatherings or cozy family dinners, it's bound to be a favorite. Enjoy this tasty creation with a light ale or a gentle red wine for an elevated dining experience.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 500 g mixed ground meat
• 1 slice white bread
• 1 egg
• 1 onion

Spices

• Salt
• Black pepper
• Grated nutmeg
• Sweet paprika

Other Ingredients

• 1 tsp butter
• 100 g boiled ham slices
• 150 g Bavaria Blu or Danblu cheese
• 4 tomatoes
• 1/2 bunch dill

Preparation Time

60 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Start by soaking the slice of white bread in a little water, then squeeze out the excess moisture.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat with the soaked bread. Mix them together until fully integrated.
3. Beat the egg and add it to the meat mixture along with the finely chopped onion.
4. Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, a pinch of grated nutmeg, and sweet paprika. Mix well to distribute the spices evenly.
5. Spread half of the meat mixture evenly into a greased rectangular baking dish.
6. Slice the cheese into sticks. Wrap each cheese stick with a slice of ham to form small rolls.
7. Place the ham and cheese rolls parallel to each other, pressing them gently into the center of the meat layer.
8. Take the remaining meat mixture and cover the top, pressing down to seal the edges around the ham and cheese rolls.
9. Preheat the oven to 200°C. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven.
10. Bake the meat loaf for about 60 minutes or until it turns golden brown and fully cooked.
11. While the meat bake is cooking, prepare the tomatoes by washing and slicing them thinly.
12. Chop the dill finely for garnish.
13. Remove the bake from the oven; let it sit for a few minutes to allow the juices to settle.
14. Use a knife to slice the meat bake, making sure each slice has some of the delicious filling in the middle.
15. Garnish the dish with the sliced tomatoes and a sprinkle of fresh dill.
16. Serve the meat bake warm, alongside fresh vegetables and mashed potatoes if desired.
17. Enjoy the dish with a cool glass of light ale or a gentle red wine for the best combination of flavors.

Tips

• Use fresh ingredients to ensure the best flavors.
• If the meat mixture seems dry, add a splash of milk for extra moisture.
• Substitute the cheese with your favorite meltable cheese for a different flavor.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Nutrition

This dish offers about 420 calories per serving with 28g of protein, 27g of fat, and 20g of carbohydrates.

Variations

• For a lighter version, use turkey or chicken mince instead of mixed ground meat.
• Vegetarians can substitute the meat with lentils and the ham with roasted bell peppers.
• Use gluten-free bread for those with gluten sensitivities.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a fresh green salad for a refreshing contrast.
• A side of creamy mashed potatoes complements the rich flavors well.
• Serve with a light, fruity dessert to finish the meal on a sweet note.

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