Savory Meatloaf with Spinach

Name: Savory Meatloaf with Spinach
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 lb ground pork; 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 2 large eggs; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/4 cup ketchup; 6 slices bacon

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making this Savory Meatloaf with Spinach, especially when I want a warm and comforting dinner. The combination of tender meat, nutritious spinach, and aromatic herbs creates a flavorful experience that’s hard to resist. On busy weeknights, this dish comes together quickly, and there's just something so satisfying about serving a classic meatloaf that’s loaded with veggies. My family devours it, and it’s the perfect way to sneak in some greens while keeping everyone happy!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-25T17:22:27.257Z

When I first decided to make a meatloaf, I didn’t want just any recipe; I wanted something with character. After experimenting with various ingredients, I hit upon the wonderful idea of adding spinach. Not only does it boost the nutrition of the dish, but it also gives the meatloaf a beautiful green hue and a delightful texture. My secret? Wrapping it in bacon for that extra flavor!

To ensure that the meatloaf remains juicy, I always use a mix of ground beef and pork. This combination adds depth to the flavor while keeping the loaf moist. I've learned that letting the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing makes a real difference, allowing the juices to redistribute for a perfect slice every time.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A delicious twist on a classic meatloaf that incorporates nutritious spinach.
Comforting and flavorful, perfect for family dinners.
Easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time.

      

Secrets to a Moist Meatloaf

To achieve a moist and flavorful meatloaf, it’s crucial to use a blend of ground meats, such as beef and pork. Ground pork adds a slight sweetness and additional fat, ensuring the meatloaf doesn’t dry out during baking. Mixing the meats thoroughly with your other ingredients, but being careful not to overwork the mixture, will keep the texture just right. Use your hands or a fork to combine until everything is incorporated but still loose enough to retain moisture.

The addition of breadcrumbs and eggs acts as a binding agent and helps retain moisture during cooking. You can also swap out the breadcrumbs for crushed crackers or oats if you’re looking for a gluten-free option. Adding chopped vegetables like bell peppers or carrots can further enhance moisture while contributing to the flavor profile.

Perfecting the Bacon Topping

Wrapping the meatloaf in bacon adds not only flavor but also helps to keep it moist throughout the cooking process. Choose thick-cut bacon that will hold its shape and provide a nice, crispy texture on the outside. When laying the bacon over the meatloaf, arrange the slices so they slightly overlap, which allows for even cooking and crispy edges. Tucking the ends underneath the loaf ensures that the bacon cooks evenly and stays in place.

If you're looking for a healthier alternative, turkey bacon can be used, but keep in mind that it may not provide the same level of moisture or flavor. For an extra kick, try seasoning the bacon with a dash of black pepper or crushed red pepper flakes before placing it on the meatloaf.

Serving and Storing Tips

After baking, let the meatloaf rest for at least 10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, preventing them from spilling out when you slice it. A serrated knife is useful for cutting through the cooked bacon crust without squishing the meatloaf. Serve it with classic sides such as mashed potatoes and green beans for a comforting dinner, or slice it cold for sandwiches the next day.

If you have leftovers, store the meatloaf wrapped in aluminum foil or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can freeze individual slices as well for easy reheating later. To reheat, place the slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent dryness.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your savory meatloaf with spinach:

For the Meatloaf

1 lb ground beef
1 lb ground pork
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup breadcrumbs
2 large eggs
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/4 cup ketchup
6 slices bacon

Make sure to have all ingredients ready before you start mixing!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious meatloaf:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, chopped spinach, breadcrumbs, eggs, onion, garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, and 2 tablespoons of the ketchup. Mix until well combined.

Shape the Loaf

Transfer the meat mixture to a loaf pan and shape it into a loaf. Spread the remaining ketchup on top.

Wrap with Bacon

Lay the slices of bacon over the top of the meatloaf, tucking the ends underneath if possible.

Bake the Meatloaf

Place the loaf in the preheated oven and bake for 60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).

Rest and Serve

Remove the meatloaf from the oven, let it rest for 10 minutes, then slice and serve.

Enjoy this savory meatloaf hot with your favorite sides!

Pro Tips

For added moisture, consider mixing in grated carrots or bell peppers into the meat mixture.

Ingredient Variations

Feel free to experiment with different greens besides spinach. Kale or Swiss chard can add unique flavors and textures to your meatloaf. If using sturdier greens, be sure to sauté them first to soften them up, making it easier for them to integrate into the mixture and preventing any toughness in the final dish.

You can also personalize your meatloaf by adding cheese. A half-cup of shredded mozzarella or cheddar mixed into the meat mixture will create a delightful cheesy surprise in every bite. Just keep in mind that additional moisture from the cheese might require adjusting the breadcrumbs slightly to maintain the right consistency.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue with meatloaf is that it can sometimes fall apart when sliced. To avoid this, ensure you have the right balance of binder to meat; if your mixture is too crumbly, consider adding a tablespoon of milk or more eggs. Using a pan that’s too large can also cause the loaf to spread out and lose its shape, so ensure your loaf pan fits the amount of mixture snugly.

If your meatloaf is cooked through but lacks flavor, consider enhancing the seasoning. A splash of Worcestershire sauce or a tablespoon of mustard can deepen the flavor profile, while adding fresh herbs like thyme or parsley into the mix can brighten up the dish. Always taste your mixture before shaping it to ensure it meets your flavor preferences.

Make-Ahead Options

This Savory Meatloaf with Spinach is perfect for meal prep. You can assemble the entire meatloaf and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. This not only saves time on busy weeknights but allows the flavors to meld beautifully as it sits. Just remember to remove it from the fridge for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.

If you prefer to make it even further in advance, consider freezing the uncooked meatloaf. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, and it can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before cooking it according to the recipe instructions.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare the meatloaf ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meat mixture and shape it into a loaf a day in advance, then cover it and refrigerate until you are ready to bake.

→ What can I serve with meatloaf?

Mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad make great side dishes.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze meatloaf?

Yes! Meatloaf can be frozen either cooked or uncooked. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for best results.