This Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf is a fun twist on a classic dish! It’s packed with ground beef, cheese, and veggies, all baked together into a delicious loaf.
Who knew meatloaf could taste so much like a cheesesteak? I love serving it with a side of mashed potatoes. It’s comfort food that makes everyone smile! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend is perfect for meatloaf because it offers great flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for a healthier option, use ground turkey or chicken, but note that they may need more seasoning to enhance flavor.
Provolone Cheese: Provolone adds a nice melty texture. If you can’t find it, mozzarella or a mild cheddar makes a great substitution. For a sharper flavor, use aged provolone or gouda.
Bell Pepper & Onion: Green bell pepper and yellow onion give that classic cheesesteak flavor. Feel free to swap with red or orange bell peppers for a sweeter taste. You can also use mushrooms for additional umami.
Breadcrumbs: They help bind the meatloaf. You can use gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed, or even oats if you’re looking for a healthier alternative.
Milk: This keeps the meatloaf moist. Substitute with any plant-based milk like almond or oat milk if you’re dairy-free.
How Do I Ensure My Meatloaf Stays Moist and Tender?
Meatloaf can sometimes turn out dry if not prepared carefully. To keep yours juicy, here are key tips:
- Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined—overworking can make it dense.
- Use Fat: The 80/20 blend of beef has enough fat for moisture. If using leaner meats, add a splash more milk or some finely chopped bacon for richness.
- Rest Before Slicing: Allowing the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes helps redistribute the juices, making each slice tender and flavorful.
Using these tips and ingredient suggestions will help you achieve great results with your Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf! Enjoy your cooking! 😊
How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 2 pounds ground beef (preferably 80/20)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup provolone cheese, shredded (plus extra slices for topping)
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian seasoned)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (for sautéing veggies)
For Garnish:
- Fresh chives or parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf takes about 15 minutes to prep and approximately 60-70 minutes to bake, plus an extra 10 minutes to rest before slicing. In total, you’ll need about 1 hour and 25-35 minutes before it’s ready to serve. Perfect for a hearty family dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil or butter. Sauté the finely chopped onions and green bell pepper until they soften and begin to caramelize, about 5-7 minutes. When they’re almost done, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, just until fragrant. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
3. Combine Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the ground beef, cooled sautéed veggies, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, oregano, basil, and any red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon, being careful not to overmix—this keeps the meatloaf tender!
4. Add Cheese:
Next, fold in the shredded provolone and cheddar cheese into the meat mixture, reserving some cheese to top your loaf later. This is where all that cheesy goodness really starts to come together!
5. Shape the Meatloaf:
Transfer the meat mixture into your prepared loaf pan. Press it down lightly and shape it into a nice loaf. It should fill the pan evenly.
6. Add Topping Cheese:
Sprinkle the reserved cheese slices or shredded cheese evenly on top of the meatloaf. This will create a deliciously cheesy crust as it bakes.
7. Bake:
Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for about 60-70 minutes. It’s done when the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). A kitchen thermometer can be really handy for this!
8. Broil for a Golden Finish (Optional):
If you want that lovely golden, bubbly cheese crust, turn on the broiler for the last 3-5 minutes of baking—just keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
9. Rest Your Meatloaf:
Once done, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This helps keep all those delicious juices inside when you slice it!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, garnish your meatloaf with chopped fresh chives or parsley for a nice touch. Slice it up and serve warm. Enjoy your Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf with your favorite side dishes!
This meatloaf is a fantastic fusion of flavors and comfort—perfect for any night of the week! 🌟
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes, you can absolutely use ground turkey for a lighter option! Just be aware that turkey tends to be drier, so consider adding a bit more milk or a little olive oil to keep it moist.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge before reheating!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! You can incorporate additional veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or even spinach for extra nutrition. Just make sure to finely chop and sauté them before mixing them into the meat to maintain the right texture.
What Can I Serve With This Meatloaf?
This Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf pairs well with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad. For a fun twist, serve it on a toasted hoagie roll with some extra cheese for a true cheesesteak experience!
