Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf Recipe

Indulge in the savory goodness of a classic Philly cheesesteak with a twist! This Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf combines all the delicious flavors of the iconic sandwich into a hearty and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Packed with tender ground beef, onions, peppers, mushrooms, and gooey cheese, this meatloaf is sure to become a new family favorite. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 8 ounces mushrooms, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, chopped
• 2 pounds ground beef
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1/2 container cheese whiz (optional)
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 2 eggs
• 1 container panko breadcrumbs (gluten-free for gluten-free)
• 4 ounces provolone cheese, sliced
• 8 slices provolone cheese (for topping)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a loaf pan with oil or non-stick cooking spray.
2. Sauté Vegetables: In a skillet over medium heat, heat the oil and add the diced onion, bell pepper, and mushrooms. Sauté until the vegetables are softened and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. Add the chopped garlic and cook for an additional minute. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. Mix Meatloaf Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, sautéed vegetables, salt, pepper, cheese whiz (if using), Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, eggs, and panko breadcrumbs. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until well combined.
4. Form the Meatloaf: Transfer the meatloaf mixture into the prepared loaf pan, pressing it down gently to form an even layer. If using sliced provolone cheese, arrange the slices on top of the meatloaf mixture, overlapping slightly.
5. Bake: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the top is golden brown. If using, place the additional slices of provolone cheese on top of the meatloaf during the last 10 minutes of baking, allowing them to melt and become bubbly.
6. Rest and Serve: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve slices of meatloaf hot, garnished with additional cheese if desired.

Cook Notes and Variations:

• Cheese Whiz Alternative: If you prefer a more traditional meatloaf, you can omit the cheese whiz and use only sliced provolone cheese for topping. Alternatively, you can use shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese instead.
• Gluten-Free Option: To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs and ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
• Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to customize the vegetable mixture based on your preferences. You can add diced jalapeños for a spicy kick or incorporate roasted red peppers for additional flavor.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):

Q: Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture ahead of time and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, you can bake the meatloaf in advance and reheat slices as needed.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers of this meatloaf? A: Absolutely! This meatloaf freezes well. Once cooled, slice the meatloaf into individual portions and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Q: Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef? A: Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef in this recipe. Just be mindful that the flavor and texture may vary slightly, so adjust seasoning as needed.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

Keto Version: To make a keto-friendly version of this meatloaf, omit the breadcrumbs entirely or use crushed pork rinds as a low-carb alternative. Replace the ketchup with sugar-free or homemade keto-friendly ketchup. Use full-fat cheese and consider adding cooked bacon or diced avocado for extra fat and flavor.

Low-Carb Version: For a lower-carb option, reduce the amount of breadcrumbs used or replace them with almond flour or coconut flour. Choose low-carb vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms. Use full-fat cheese and opt for a sugar-free or reduced-sugar ketchup.

Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf is a delicious twist on a classic comfort food favorite. With its savory flavors and gooey cheese topping, this meatloaf is sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is bound to impress. Give it a try and enjoy the irresistible taste of Philly cheesesteak in meatloaf form!