This Philly Cheese Meatloaf is a delicious combination of classic meatloaf with the irresistible flavors of a Philly cheesesteak. With ground beef, onions, green bell peppers, and a combination of provolone and mozzarella cheese, this dish delivers comfort food with a cheesy twist. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, it’s a savory and hearty dish that’s bound to impress everyone at the table.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds lean ground beef (preferably 85% lean)
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
- ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon oil (for sautéing)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 slices provolone cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan for easier cleanup.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
- Step 1: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic.
- Step 2: Cook the vegetables, stirring occasionally, for 4-5 minutes until they become soft and slightly caramelized. Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly.
3. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:
- Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, panko breadcrumbs, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, and the cooled sautéed onion and bell pepper mixture.
- Step 2: Season with salt and black pepper to taste (about 1 teaspoon of each). Mix everything together using your hands or a large spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf dense.
4. Shape and Stuff the Meatloaf:
- Step 1: Divide the meat mixture in half. Take the first half and form it into a flat loaf shape on the prepared baking sheet or in the loaf pan.
- Step 2: Layer the slices of provolone cheese on top of the flattened meat mixture, leaving about an inch around the edges. This will ensure that the cheese stays inside when baking.
- Step 3: Place the second half of the meat mixture on top of the cheese, forming a complete loaf. Gently press the edges together to seal the cheese inside.
5. Bake the Meatloaf:
- Step 1: Transfer the meatloaf to the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. You can check for doneness by inserting a meat thermometer into the center of the loaf. It should register at least 160°F (71°C).
- Step 2: About 10 minutes before the meatloaf is done, sprinkle the top with the shredded mozzarella and allow it to melt.
6. Rest and Serve:
- Step 1: Once the meatloaf is cooked through, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful meatloaf.
- Step 2: Slice and serve hot. You can garnish with fresh herbs like parsley for added flavor and color.
Tips for the Best Philly Cheese Meatloaf:
- Don’t Overmix the Meat: When combining the ingredients, be careful not to overmix the meat. Overmixing can lead to a tough and dense meatloaf. Mix until just combined for the best texture.
- Add More Cheese: For extra cheesiness, you can add more cheese layers inside the meatloaf, or even melt some additional cheese on top during the last few minutes of baking.
- Optional Toppings: You can top the meatloaf with some sautéed onions and bell peppers after baking for an extra burst of Philly cheesesteak flavor.
- Let it Rest: Letting the meatloaf rest after baking is crucial. This helps the meatloaf retain its juices, making each bite tender and moist.
Variations:
- Use Different Cheeses: While this recipe calls for provolone and mozzarella, you can experiment with other types of cheese like cheddar, pepper jack, or Swiss for a different flavor profile.
- Change Up the Meat: If you prefer, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, ground chicken, or a combination of meats like beef and pork.
- Vegetable Add-Ins: Feel free to add other veggies like mushrooms or spinach to the meatloaf mixture for additional nutrients and flavor.
- Add a Sauce: For a twist, try adding a tomato-based sauce on top of the meatloaf before baking, similar to a traditional meatloaf, or drizzle with cheese sauce before serving for an extra creamy finish.
Serving Suggestions:
- Philly Cheese Meatloaf Sandwiches: Leftovers make fantastic sandwiches! Slice the meatloaf and serve between toasted buns with some melted provolone or cheddar cheese on top for a delicious meatloaf sandwich.
- Side Dishes: Serve this Philly Cheese Meatloaf with a side of mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
- Sauce Pairing: A drizzle of ketchup, steak sauce, or even cheese sauce can take this meatloaf to the next level. For an extra Philly cheesesteak vibe, consider serving with a side of cheese whiz!
Leftover Storage:
- Refrigerate: Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freeze: You can also freeze slices of cooked meatloaf. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to enjoy.
This Philly Cheese Meatloaf is a satisfying, cheesy, and savory dinner that combines the best of classic meatloaf with the iconic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak. It’s easy to make and perfect for feeding a hungry family or a gathering of friends. The combination of ground beef, sautéed onions and peppers, and melted cheese creates a deliciously comforting dish that everyone will love. Serve it with your favorite sides, and enjoy a meal that’s sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation!
