Description: This Philly cheesesteak meatloaf takes all the flavors of the classic sandwich and transforms them into a juicy, cheesy, and irresistible dish! It’s comfort food elevated, bringing the iconic taste of Philly right to your dinner table in meatloaf form. This is the perfect recipe for a family dinner, potluck or a casual get-together!
Ingredients:
For the meatloaf:
- 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend is ideal for juiciness) or ground turkey (for a leaner option)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-seasoned, panko also works for extra texture)
- 1/2 cup whole milk (or half-and-half for added richness)
- 1 large egg (lightly beaten)
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground is best)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (adds depth and umami)
For the filling:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (extra virgin olive oil)
- 1 small onion, diced (yellow or white onion)
- 1/2 green bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese (or a blend of both, or even pepper jack for a kick)
For the topping:
- 1/2 cup shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish and freshness)
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures even cooking and prevents the meatloaf from drying out. Grease a standard-sized loaf pan (approximately 9×5 inches) with cooking spray, butter, or line it with parchment paper. The parchment paper method makes removing the meatloaf much easier after baking, preventing it from sticking to the pan.
Step 2: Prepare the veggie filling. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell peppers (both green and red for color and flavor) and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until they soften and become slightly translucent. This pre-cooking step helps release their flavors and ensures they are tender in the finished meatloaf. Remove the skillet from the heat and allow the vegetables to cool slightly before assembling the meatloaf. This prevents them from cooking the meatloaf prematurely.
Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine the meatloaf ingredients. Add the ground beef (or ground turkey), breadcrumbs, milk, beaten egg, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Worcestershire sauce. Gently mix all ingredients together with your hands or a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough meatloaf. The key is to blend the ingredients evenly without compacting the meat.
Step 4: Assemble the meatloaf. Press half of the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan, creating an even layer on the bottom. This forms the base of the meatloaf. Next, evenly layer the sautéed onions and bell peppers over the meat base. Distribute them evenly to ensure every slice of the meatloaf has a taste of the savory filling. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese (provolone, mozzarella, or your preferred cheese blend) over the vegetable layer. This creates a cheesy, melty core that perfectly complements the meat and vegetables.
Step 5: Top with the remaining meat mixture. Carefully spread the remaining meat mixture over the cheese and vegetable layer, ensuring it covers the entire filling. Gently press down to seal the edges of the meatloaf, preventing the filling from leaking out during baking. This creates a cohesive structure for the meatloaf and ensures it holds its shape.
Step 6: Bake the meatloaf. Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf is cooked through. Insert the thermometer into the center of the meatloaf, avoiding contact with the filling. The meatloaf is done when the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C), indicating that the ground beef is safely cooked.
Step 7: Add the final cheese layer. Remove the meatloaf from the oven and sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheese evenly over the top. Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for another 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. This creates a golden-brown, cheesy crust on top of the meatloaf.
Step 8: Rest and serve. Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more moist and flavorful meatloaf. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Slice the meatloaf into even portions and serve.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser because it takes a beloved sandwich and reimagines it in a comforting, family-friendly form. It’s packed with flavor, from the savory ground beef seasoned with classic spices to the sautéed onions and peppers and the gooey, melted cheese. It’s easy to make, requiring just a few simple steps, and it’s a great way to use up leftover ingredients. Plus, it’s a fun and creative twist on traditional meatloaf that will have everyone asking for seconds! The aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes is simply irresistible.
COOKING Rating:
- Ease: Easy
- Taste: Excellent
- Presentation: Good
- Overall: Highly Recommended
Serving Suggestions:
- Classic sides: Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables (such as broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts), or a simple green salad.
- Philly-inspired sides: Pair with cheese fries, onion rings, or a side of homemade cheese sauce.
- Bread: Serve slices of the meatloaf on toasted hoagie rolls or slider buns for a Philly cheesesteak experience.
- Condiments: Offer ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, or a homemade cheese sauce as condiments.
- Make it a meal: Add a side of steamed green beans or a fresh corn on the cob for a balanced and satisfying meal.
- Leftovers: Leftover meatloaf can be used in sandwiches, salads, or even as a topping for pizza or baked potatoes.
Tips:
- Use high-quality ground beef: Choose an 80/20 blend of ground beef for optimal flavor and juiciness.
- Don’t overmix: Overmixing the meat mixture can result in a tough meatloaf. Mix until just combined.
- Let it rest: Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes after baking to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Customize the cheese: Feel free to use your favorite type of cheese, such as provolone, mozzarella, pepper jack, or a blend of cheeses.
- Add a topping: Spread a layer of mayonnaise, cheese sauce, or ketchup on top of the meatloaf before baking for added flavor.
- Vary the vegetables: Use different vegetables for the filling, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.
- Make it ahead: The meatloaf can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Freeze it: Baked meatloaf can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50-55 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes – 1 hour 15 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Estimated per serving, may vary based on ingredients)
- Calories: 450-550
- Protein: 30-40g
- Sodium: 600-800mg
Conclusion
This Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience. It’s a way to bring the flavors of a classic sandwich into a new and exciting format that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to impress. The combination of savory ground beef, sautéed vegetables, and melted cheese creates a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your oven, and get ready to create a meatloaf masterpiece that will have everyone cheering. Enjoy!
Questions and Answers about the Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf Recipe:
Q1: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
A: Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner alternative to ground beef. When using ground turkey, make sure to choose a blend that isn’t too lean (like 85/15) to maintain some moisture in the meatloaf. You might also consider adding a little extra olive oil or milk to the meat mixture to prevent it from drying out during baking. The taste will be slightly different, but it’s still a delicious and healthier option.
Q2: What kind of breadcrumbs should I use for the meatloaf?
A: You have several options for breadcrumbs. Plain breadcrumbs work well as a neutral base, allowing the other flavors to shine. Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs will add an extra layer of flavor, especially if you enjoy herbs and spices. Panko breadcrumbs create a more textured meatloaf with a slightly crispy exterior. Experiment to see which type you prefer! If you’re gluten-free, you can easily substitute with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Q3: Can I add mushrooms to the filling?
A: Definitely! Mushrooms are a fantastic addition to the filling. They add an earthy, savory flavor that complements the other ingredients perfectly. Simply sauté the sliced mushrooms along with the onions and bell peppers until they are tender and slightly browned. You can use any type of mushroom you like, such as cremini, button, or portobello. About 1 cup of sliced mushrooms should be a good amount.
Q4: How can I prevent the meatloaf from drying out?
A: Several factors can contribute to a dry meatloaf. First, avoid overmixing the meat mixture, as this can make it tough and dry. Using a slightly higher fat content ground beef (80/20) will also help. Make sure to add enough moisture to the meat mixture with the milk and egg. Finally, don’t overbake the meatloaf. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature and remove it from the oven when it reaches 160°F (71°C). Letting it rest for 10 minutes after baking will also help redistribute the juices.
Q5: Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can! You can assemble the meatloaf completely and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove it from the refrigerator and follow the baking instructions. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if the meatloaf is very cold. This is a great way to save time on busy weeknights!
