How to Make Cheesy Ham-Wrapped Meat Rolls Stuffed with Feta

When you need a comforting dinner that combines rich flavor with easy oven preparation, hearty meat casseroles deliver unmatched satisfaction. These feta stuffed ground meat rolls feature seasoned ground meat wrapped around tangy feta cheese, encased in slices of savory cooked ham, and baked in a creamy tomato sauce under a golden layer of melted cheese.

Why Wrapping Meat Rolls in Ham Keeps Them Juicy

A common challenge when baking ground meat rolls is that the meat can dry out before the interior cooks through completely. Slicing feta directly into the center adds richness, but it also creates the potential for cheese to leak out as it melts.

Wrapping each stuffed meat roll in a thin slice of cooked ham solves both problems simultaneously. The ham creates a protective seal around the ground meat, trapping natural juices and preventing the melting feta from leaking into the baking dish. Additionally, as the casserole bakes in the oven, the ham adds a subtle smoky note that complements the tanginess of the tomato sauce.

Key Ingredients

Gather these pantry staples and fresh ingredients before preparing your casserole dish.

For the Seasoned Meat & Filling:

• Ground Meat: 1 pound (500g) ground beef or a blend of pork and beef.
• Cooked Ham: 8 to 10 thin slices of deli-style cooked ham.
• Feta Cheese: 7 ounces (200g) block feta cheese, sliced into rectangular sticks.
• Breadcrumbs: 1/2 cup (60g) plain breadcrumbs to bind the meat mixture.
• Egg: 1 large egg.
• Onion & Garlic: 1 medium yellow onion (finely diced) and 1 clove garlic (minced).
• Seasonings: 1 tablespoon yellow mustard, 1 teaspoon sweet paprika, 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, and 1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper.

For the Tomato-Crème Fraîche Sauce:

• Sauté Base: 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil, 1 medium yellow onion (diced), and 1 clove garlic (minced).
• Strained Tomatoes: 2 cups (500g) passata or plain strained tomatoes.
• Crème Fraîche: 3/4 cup (200g) crème fraîche or full-fat sour cream.
• Sauce Seasonings: 1 teaspoon sweet paprika, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.

For the Cheese Topping:

• Shredded Cheese: 1 cup (100g) shredded Gouda, Mozzarella, or Swiss cheese.

Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions

1. Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, egg, finely diced onion, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, mustard, sweet paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly with clean hands or a spoon until the ingredients form a cohesive mixture.
2. Shape and Wrap the Rolls: Divide the meat mixture into 8 to 10 equal portions. Flatten each portion into an oval patty, place a block of feta cheese in the center, and fold the meat around the cheese, pinching the edges firmly shut to form a cylinder. Wrap each shaped meat roll tightly in a slice of cooked ham.
3. Simmer the Creamy Sauce: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing for 2 to 3 minutes until translucent. Pour in the strained tomatoes, bring to a gentle simmer, and whisk in the crème fraîche. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper, letting the sauce simmer gently for 10 minutes.
4. Assemble the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Pour a thin layer of the warm tomato-crème fraîche sauce into the bottom of a rectangular baking dish. Arrange the ham-wrapped meat rolls side by side over the sauce, then pour the remaining sauce evenly across the top of the rolls.
5. Bake to Perfection: Bake uncovered at 350°F (180°C) for 25 minutes. Carefully remove the dish from the oven, sprinkle shredded cheese generously over the top, and return to the oven for an additional 5 to 10 minutes until the cheese is completely melted and lightly golden.

Nutritional Profile

This low-carb, protein-packed casserole provides a satisfying main dish for cozy family dinners.

• Calories: 480 kcal per serving (yields 5 servings)
• Protein: 34g
• Total Fat: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g

Pro Tips for the Best Results

• Seal the Edges Firmly: When shaping the ground meat around the feta block, ensure there are no open cracks. A tight seal prevents the feta from seeping into the sauce before the ham wrapper is applied.
• Substitute for Crème Fraîche: If crème fraîche is unavailable in your local grocery store, equal parts heavy cream and sour cream mixed together will deliver a similar rich, tangy consistency.
• Serving Suggestions: Pair these hearty rolls with buttered egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or crisp green beans to soak up the extra tomato-cream sauce.

Storage and Reheating Guidelines

• Refrigeration: Store leftover baked rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the oven at 320°F (160°C) for 12 to 15 minutes or microwave on medium power until heated through.

Key Takeaways

• Double Moisture Barrier: Ground meat combined with cooked ham wrapping keeps the interior juicy and soft.
• Rich Sauce Balance: Tangy crème fraîche mellows the acidity of strained tomatoes for a smooth casserole base.
• Family Friendly: Simple prep steps make this an ideal meal-prep casserole for busy weeknights.

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