Mediterranean Baked Stuffed Meat Roll with Mushroom Mashed Potatoes
This dish combines rustic comfort with Mediterranean flair. The meat roll is packed with a savory filling of mushrooms, cheese, and vegetables, then baked until golden and juicy. Paired with creamy mushroom mashed potatoes topped with a velvety mushroom sauce, this recipe makes for a hearty main course that’s perfect for family dinners or special gatherings. It’s rich, earthy, and deeply satisfying, yet balanced by fresh herbs and spices.
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 4–6
Ingredients
For the Stuffed Meat Roll:
1 ½ lbs ground beef (or lamb, pork loin, or a mix)
1 small onion, finely diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 red bell pepper, finely diced
1 medium tomato, diced (seeds removed)
1 cup mushrooms, finely chopped (champignon or white)
1 cup cheese (mozzarella, smoked cheese, cheddar, or cream cheese)
1 egg (to bind, optional)
½ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for structure)
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp thyme
½ tsp rosemary
1 tsp oregano
Salt & black pepper, to taste
4–6 bacon strips (optional, to wrap or layer)
Optional Sauce for Serving:
½ cup red wine
2 tbsp olive oil
For the Mushroom Mashed Potatoes:
2 lbs potatoes (russet or baby potatoes), peeled and chopped
3 tbsp olive oil
½ cup milk (or sour cream for creamier texture)
Salt, black pepper, and paprika (to taste)
Fresh dill or green onions (optional, for garnish)
For the Mushroom Sauce (Optional Topping):
1 cup champignon mushrooms, sliced
½ small onion, finely diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp thyme
1 chicken bouillon cube
1 tbsp all-purpose flour
¼ cup white wine (optional)
1 cup water (or more as needed)
Drizzle of truffle oil (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Meat Roll Filling
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a skillet, heat a little oil. Sauté onion, garlic, mushrooms, bell pepper, and tomato until softened and most liquid has evaporated. Season lightly with salt, pepper, and herbs. Set aside to cool slightly.
In a large bowl, combine ground meat, smoked paprika, oregano, thyme, rosemary, breadcrumbs, egg, and cooled vegetable mixture. Mix until just combined (don’t overmix).
Assemble the Meat Roll
On a sheet of parchment paper, flatten the meat mixture into a rectangle about 1-inch thick.
Sprinkle cheese evenly over the center. If using beef, layer it inside or wrap strips around the outside.
Using the parchment to help, carefully roll the meat into a log, sealing edges well. Place seam-side down on a baking dish.
Bake the Meat Roll
Bake uncovered for 40–50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
For optional sauce: In the last 10 minutes of baking, deglaze the pan with red wine and olive oil to create a simple pan sauce.
Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
While the meat roll bakes, boil potatoes in salted water until tender (15–20 minutes).
Drain and mash with olive oil, milk (or sour cream), salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix until creamy. Stir in dill or green onions if desired.
Make the Mushroom Sauce (Optional)
In a skillet, heat the olive oil and sauté onion, garlic, and mushrooms until golden.
Stir in thyme, bouillon cube, and flour, cooking 1 minute.
Deglaze with white wine (if using), then gradually whisk in water until a smooth sauce forms. Simmer until thickened.
Add a drizzle of truffle oil for depth.
Serve
Slice the meat roll into thick pieces.
Plate over a bed of mushroom mashed potatoes.
Spoon mushroom sauce or pan sauce on top. Garnish with fresh herbs.
Tips
Rolling Trick: Use parchment paper or plastic wrap to help shape and roll the meat evenly. This keeps it from falling apart.
Seal the Ends: Pinch or fold the ends of the roll to prevent cheese from leaking while baking.
Rest Before Slicing: Let the meat roll rest 8–10 minutes after baking so juices redistribute, keeping slices tender.
Drain Vegetables: Make sure the filling vegetables are well-sautéed and not watery, or the roll may not hold together.
Smooth Mashed Potatoes: Warm milk or sour cream before adding to potatoes—it blends better and makes the mash creamier.
Variations
Cheese Options: Swap mozzarella with feta, goat cheese, or a smoked cheese for a bolder Mediterranean twist.
Meat Choices: Use ground lamb for a richer flavor, or chicken/turkey for a lighter version. Pork loin can also be oiled, stuffed, and rolled.
Herb Boost: Add fresh parsley, dill, or cilantro to the filling for freshness.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños, chili flakes, or hot paprika to the meat mixture for heat.
Mediterranean Add-ins: Try sun-dried tomatoes, kalamata olives, or roasted red peppers in the filling.
Lighter Potatoes: Replace regular mashed potatoes with mashed cauliflower for a lower-carb option.
Extra Sauce: Instead of mushroom sauce, serve with a tomato-herb sauce, tzatziki, or garlic yogurt sauce for contrast.
Q&A
Q: Can I prepare the meat roll ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the roll a day in advance and refrigerate it. Bake just before serving.
Q: How do I keep the roll from falling apart?
A: Use an egg and breadcrumbs in the mixture for binding. Also, make sure the filling is cooled and not watery.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Yes. Slice the baked meat roll, let cool, and freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Reheat gently in the oven.
Q: What side dishes go best with this meal?
A: Besides mushroom mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, steamed green beans, or a crisp Mediterranean salad make excellent pairings.
Q: Can I make the mushroom sauce vegetarian-friendly?
A: Absolutely. Swap the chicken bouillon with vegetable bouillon, and you’ll have a rich vegetarian-friendly sauce.
Nutrition
(per serving, based on 6 servings with mushroom mashed potatoes and sauce)
Calories: ~520
Protein: ~35g
Fat: ~28g
Carbohydrates: ~32g
Fiber: ~3g
Sodium: ~720mg
(Values will vary depending on meat choice, cheese type, and whether sauce is included.)
Conclusion
The Mediterranean Baked Stuffed Meat Roll with Mushroom Mashed Potatoes is a hearty, comfort-style dish that blends savory meat, earthy mushrooms, and creamy potatoes into one show-stopping meal. It’s versatile, customizable, and perfect for both cozy family dinners and special gatherings. With its layers of flavor and satisfying texture, this recipe delivers warmth and richness while leaving room for creative Mediterranean twists.