Pieczeń Rzymska (Polish Meatloaf)

Pieczeń rzymska, or Polish meatloaf, is a beloved comfort food in Poland. This dish is a flavorful, hearty option that combines ground meat, breadcrumbs, and seasonings, resulting in a tender, savory loaf that’s perfect for any meal. Often served with mashed potatoes, vegetables, or a simple salad, this meatloaf is a satisfying and nutritious choice for lunch or dinner. Whether served hot or cold, it’s a versatile dish that brings warmth to the table.

Ingredients:

500g ground beef
500g ground pork
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 egg
1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably stale)
1/2 cup milk
1 tablespoon dried marjoram
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying the onion)
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions:

Prepare the onion: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute. Remove from heat and let it cool.

Mix the meat and breadcrumbs: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, egg, marjoram, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the sautéed onion and garlic mixture and mix everything until evenly incorporated.

Form the meatloaf: With wet hands, shape the mixture into a loaf. Place the shaped loaf into a greased baking dish or on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.

Cook the meatloaf: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the meatloaf for about 1 hour or until it reaches an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F) and is golden brown on top.

Glaze (optional): During the last 10 minutes of baking, you can brush the top of the meatloaf with a mixture of tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce for a glossy finish and extra flavor.

Serving and Storage Tips:

Serving: Serve the pieczeń rzymska hot from the oven with mashed potatoes, pickled vegetables, or a light salad for a full meal. It also pairs wonderfully with a dollop of sour cream or mustard on the side.

Storage: Once cooled, slice the meatloaf and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It also freezes well for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, reheat in the oven or microwave.

Variations:

Vegetarian Version: For a plant-based alternative, you can use a combination of lentils, chickpeas, or plant-based ground meat. Simply follow the same directions, adjusting the seasoning to your taste.
Cheese-filled Meatloaf: For added richness, you can place a layer of cheese (such as mozzarella) in the center of the meatloaf before baking, resulting in a cheesy surprise when you slice it.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or basil for a unique twist on the classic flavor profile.