Philly Cheese Meatloaf combines the beloved flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak with the comfort of a traditional meatloaf. This fusion dish is perfect for anyone who loves hearty, cheesy, and savory meals. With tender ground beef, flavorful vegetables, and melted cheese, this meatloaf will quickly become a family favorite. Follow this recipe to create a delicious Philly Cheese Meatloaf that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 pounds lean ground beef
- 1 yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 3 minced garlic cloves
- 6 slices Provolone cheese
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
- In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped yellow onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the lean ground beef, beaten eggs, Panko breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, sautéed vegetables, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
4. Assemble the Meatloaf:
- Place half of the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan, pressing it down evenly. Place 3 slices of Provolone cheese on top of the meat layer. Add the remaining meat mixture on top, pressing down firmly to ensure the cheese is sealed in the middle.
5. Bake the Meatloaf:
- Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
6. Add the Cheese:
- Remove the meatloaf from the oven and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella on top. Layer the remaining 3 slices of Provolone cheese over the mozzarella. Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Rest and Serve:
- Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve hot, and enjoy the gooey, cheesy goodness of this Philly Cheese Meatloaf.
Cook’s Tips:
- For extra flavor, add sautéed mushrooms to the vegetable mixture.
- If you prefer a spicier meatloaf, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the meat mixture.
- Make sure to let the meatloaf rest before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute and prevent it from falling apart.
Variations:
Turkey Philly Cheese Meatloaf:
- Substitute lean ground turkey for the ground beef to create a lighter version of this dish. Follow the same instructions for a delicious and healthy alternative.
Low-Carb Philly Cheese Meatloaf:
- Replace the Panko breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour to reduce the carbohydrate content. This variation is perfect for those following a low-carb or keto diet.
Vegetarian Philly Cheese Meatloaf:
- Use a plant-based ground meat substitute instead of ground beef. Ensure all other ingredients, such as cheese, are also plant-based. Follow the same cooking instructions for a delicious vegetarian option.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
Q: Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture and assemble it in the loaf pan. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual slices in the microwave or rewarm the entire loaf in the oven.
Q: Can I freeze this meatloaf? A: Yes, this meatloaf freezes well. Wrap the cooked and cooled meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Q: What can I serve with Philly Cheese Meatloaf? A: This meatloaf pairs well with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. It also makes excellent sandwiches the next day!
Philly Cheese Meatloaf is a delightful fusion of two classic dishes, bringing together the flavors of a Philly cheesesteak and the comfort of a traditional meatloaf. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner, a casual gathering, or meal prep for the week. With its savory beef, flavorful vegetables, and gooey melted cheese, this meatloaf is sure to become a favorite in your household. Give it a try and enjoy the delicious, cheesy goodness of this hearty dish.
