Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with the ultimate comfort food experience – Cheese Stuffed Meatloaf. This classic dish takes the traditional meatloaf to new heights by infusing it with gooey melted cheese in every bite. With a savory blend of ground beef, herbs, and spices, encasing a molten center of sharp cheddar cheese, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or hosting a special occasion, this Cheese Stuffed Meatloaf promises to satisfy your cravings and leave you longing for more. Let’s dive into the savory goodness and unlock the secrets to creating the perfect meatloaf masterpiece!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs ground beef, a mix of lean and a bit of fat for flavor
- 1/2 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 ounces of sharp cheddar cheese, cut into sticks or shredded
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
Instructions:
- Prepare the Meat Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, seasoned breadcrumbs, milk, beaten eggs, chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Mix the ingredients together until well combined, but be careful not to overmix as it can make the meatloaf dense.
- Shape the Meatloaf:
- Divide the meat mixture in half. Take one half and shape it into a rectangle or oval shape on a flat surface.
- Place the sharp cheddar cheese sticks or shredded cheese in the center of the meat mixture, leaving space around the edges.
- Form the Meatloaf:
- Take the other half of the meat mixture and shape it into another rectangle or oval shape of similar size to the first.
- Carefully place it on top of the cheese-filled meat mixture, sealing the edges together to form a loaf.
- Prepare the Glaze:
- In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, and yellow mustard until well combined. This will be the glaze for the meatloaf.
- Glaze and Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the formed meatloaf in a baking dish or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Brush the glaze over the top and sides of the meatloaf, ensuring it is evenly coated.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 1 to 1 1/4 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the meatloaf is cooked through.
- Rest and Serve:
- Once cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
- Serve slices of the cheese-stuffed meatloaf with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different types of cheese such as mozzarella, provolone, or pepper jack for a unique twist on the classic meatloaf.
- Additions: Enhance the flavor profile of the meatloaf by adding diced bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms to the meat mixture for added texture and nutrition.
- Glaze Options: Customize the glaze by adding ingredients like Worcestershire sauce, balsamic vinegar, or hot sauce for a tangy or spicy kick.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto-Friendly Option: Replace the breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds, and use a sugar-free ketchup or homemade low-carb tomato sauce for the glaze. Opt for a higher-fat ground beef blend and choose a cheese with a higher fat content.
- Low-Carb Adaptation: Omit the breadcrumbs entirely or use a small amount of coconut flour as a binder. Use a low-carb sweetener such as erythritol or stevia in place of brown sugar in the glaze, or omit the glaze altogether for a lower-carb option.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef? A: Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef in this recipe. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as turkey tends to cook faster than beef.
Q: Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time? A: Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf up to a day in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent drying out.
Q: How do I know when the meatloaf is cooked through? A: The meatloaf is done when the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) as measured with a meat thermometer. Alternatively, you can insert a knife into the center of the meatloaf – if the juices run clear and there are no traces of pink, it’s ready.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, leftover meatloaf can be frozen for up to 3 months. Slice the cooled meatloaf, wrap individual portions in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and store them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with Cheese Stuffed Meatloaf. With its savory blend of ground beef, aromatic herbs, and molten cheddar cheese center, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings and warm your soul. Whether you stick to the classic ingredients or get creative with your own variations, one thing is certain – each bite will be a taste sensation. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy the irresistible flavors of Cheese Stuffed Meatloaf!
