Ketchup: Offers sweet-tangy glaze and additional moisture.
Tools for Crafting Greek-Style Meatloaf
Large Skillet: Perfect for sautéing garlic and spinach with even heat distribution.
Mixing Bowl: Spacious container for combining all ingredients smoothly and thoroughly.
9×13-inch Baking Dish: Essential for shaping and baking the meatloaf with easy cleanup.
Measuring Cups/Spoons: Precise tools for accurate ingredient quantities.
Fork or Hands: Great for mixing ingredients until well combined.
Oven: Crucial for baking the meatloaf to golden perfection.
Cutting Board: Helpful surface for any ingredient preparation.
How to Make Spinach & Feta Meatloaf the Greek Way
Oven Preparation Kitchen setup is crucial for a smooth cooking experience. Warm the oven to 400 degrees F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Spinach Sauté Gently soften minced garlic with fresh baby spinach in a skillet over medium-low heat until leaves become tender and lose their rigidity.
Mixing Magic Combine ground meat with cooled spinach and remaining ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Blend thoroughly using hands or a fork to ensure even distribution of flavors.
Loaf Formation Shape the meat mixture into a classic loaf shape within the prepared baking dish. Smooth the top for even cooking and aesthetic appeal.
Flavor Enhancement Drizzle ketchup across the surface to create a delicious caramelized exterior during baking.
Baking Perfection Slide the meatloaf into the preheated oven. Bake for 40-50 minutes, ensuring the center reaches a safe internal temperature.
Resting Period Allow the meatloaf to rest for 5-10 minutes after removing from the oven. This helps juices redistribute, creating a more succulent dining experience.
Flavor Tips for Mediterranean-Inspired Meatloaf
Elevate Your Meatloaf Game
Replace baby spinach with Swiss chard or kale for an exciting nutrient-packed twist that adds different flavor profiles.
Experiment with other Mediterranean cheeses like ricotta or goat cheese instead of traditional feta to create unique taste experiences.
Sprinkle fresh dill, mint, or oregano into the meat mixture for an authentic Greek-inspired Mediterranean flavor explosion that makes your dish sing.
Prepare the entire meatloaf mixture up to 24 hours in advance and store covered in the refrigerator, allowing flavors to meld and intensify before baking.
Transform cold meatloaf slices into delicious sandwiches by adding tzatziki sauce, sliced cucumbers, and wrapped in warm pita bread for a quick next-day lunch.
Plating and Serving Greek Feta Meatloaf
Perfect Plate Pairings: Crisp Greek salad with cucumber, tomatoes, and olives complements the rich meatloaf flavors beautifully.
Mediterranean Mealtime Magic: Serve alongside warm pita bread or herbed rice pilaf to soak up the delicious juices from the meatloaf.
Vibrant Veggie Companions: Roasted Mediterranean vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant create a colorful and nutritious side that balances the protein-packed main dish.
Wine & Dine Delight: A glass of light red Greek wine like Agiorgitiko or a crisp white Assyrtiko will elevate the entire dining experience and bring out the meatloaf's subtle herbs and feta notes.
Keeping Greek Meatloaf Fresh for Later
Smart Portion Prep: Slice the entire meatloaf into individual servings and store them in airtight containers for quick grab-and-go lunches during busy weekdays.
Freezer-Friendly Tactic: Wrap individual slices or the whole meatloaf tightly in aluminum foil and plastic wrap, keeping it fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Refrigeration Strategy: Keep leftover meatloaf sealed in containers for 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of broth to maintain moisture and prevent drying out.
Flavor Boost Trick: Crumble cold meatloaf into salads, stuff into sandwiches, or use as a protein-packed topping for grain bowls to transform leftovers into exciting new meals.
Hearty Greek spinach & feta meatloaf brings Mediterranean flavors to classic comfort cuisine. Herb-infused ground meat combines with tangy cheese and leafy greens, creating a delightful meal you’ll savor from first bite to last.
Ingredients
Scale
1 ¼ lbs (567 g) ground beef
1 egg
½ cup (120 ml) crumbled feta cheese
4 cups baby spinach
⅓ cup (80 ml) seasoned bread crumbs
⅓ cup (80 ml) diced roasted red peppers (from a jar)
¼ cup (60 ml) chopped yellow onion
¼ cup (60 ml) ketchup
¼ cup (60 ml) pine nuts
2 cloves minced garlic
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp olive oil
½ tsp dried oregano
½ tsp dried parsley
½ tsp dried thyme
¼ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
Instructions
Preparation: Warm the oven to 400°F (204°C). Lightly oil a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy release.
Spinach Preparation: Sauté garlic in olive oil over medium-low heat until aromatic, then add baby spinach and cook until completely wilted and moisture evaporates. Cool the mixture briefly to prevent overheating the meat mixture.
Mixing Process: In a large mixing bowl, combine all ingredients, thoroughly blending with hands or a sturdy fork to ensure even distribution and cohesive texture. Ensure ingredients are well integrated without overmixing.
Shaping and Topping: Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared baking dish, gently forming a uniform loaf with softly rounded edges. Spread ketchup evenly across the top and sides to enhance moisture and develop rich flavor during baking.
Baking and Resting: Bake in the preheated oven for 40-50 minutes, confirming the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for safe consumption. Once removed, allow the meatloaf to rest 7-10 minutes, enabling juice redistribution and maintaining optimal tenderness when slicing.
Notes
Spinach Squeeze Technique: Drain spinach thoroughly after cooking to prevent excess moisture from making the meatloaf soggy and compromising texture.
Meat Mixing Mastery: Use gentle hands when combining ingredients to avoid overworking the meat, which can lead to a tough, dense meatloaf.
Temperature Precision: Use a meat thermometer to guarantee the 160°F internal temperature for food safety and perfectly cooked meatloaf.
Resting Ritual: Allow meatloaf to rest after baking to help juices redistribute, ensuring each slice remains moist and flavorful.
Founder, Head Recipe Developer & Cuisine Specialist
Expertise
Recipe Development and Testing, Modern American and European Cuisines, Food Styling and Photography, Culinary Education and Workshops
Education
Johnson & Wales University
Degree: Bachelor of Science in Culinary Arts
Focus: Comprehensive training in classical and modern cooking techniques, kitchen management, and global cuisines.
Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts
Program: Diploma in Pastry Arts
Focus: Specialized education in baking and pastry, emphasizing artisanal bread, confections, and plated desserts.
Michael Reynolds is the founder and head recipe creator at wd-50.com. With over 15 years of experience in the kitchen, he’s spent time working in top restaurants and now focuses on making great food easy for everyone at home.
Michael studied culinary arts at Johnson & Wales University and later trained in pastry at the Auguste Escoffier School. He knows his way around both savory meals and sweet treats.
At wd-50.com, his goal is to help you feel confident in the kitchen, whether you’re trying something new or cooking a favorite dish. He loves using fresh ingredients and simple steps that still bring out big flavors.
Michael Reynolds
Founder, Head Recipe Developer & Cuisine Specialist
Expertise
Recipe Development and Testing, Modern American and European Cuisines, Food Styling and Photography, Culinary Education and Workshops
Education
Johnson & Wales University
Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts
Michael Reynolds is the founder and head recipe creator at wd-50.com. With over 15 years of experience in the kitchen, he’s spent time working in top restaurants and now focuses on making great food easy for everyone at home.
Michael studied culinary arts at Johnson & Wales University and later trained in pastry at the Auguste Escoffier School. He knows his way around both savory meals and sweet treats.
At wd-50.com, his goal is to help you feel confident in the kitchen, whether you’re trying something new or cooking a favorite dish. He loves using fresh ingredients and simple steps that still bring out big flavors.