Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf: A Flavor-Packed Comfort Food Fusion

Prepare to revolutionize your dinner routine with this incredible Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf – a mouthwatering twist on two classic comfort foods that combines the beloved flavors of a Philadelphia cheesesteak with the hearty tradition of meatloaf. This innovative recipe brings together the rich, savory essence of ground beef, the sweetness of bell peppers, and the unmistakable zest of traditional cheesesteak seasonings.

Ingredients

US Measurements

  • 2 lbs ground beef
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 1/2 cup green bell pepper, diced
  • 1/2 cup onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup provolone or American cheese slices
  • Optional topping: Additional sautéed bell peppers and onions

Metric Measurements

  • 900g ground beef
  • 120g breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 120ml whole milk
  • 75g green bell pepper, diced
  • 75g onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 15ml Worcestershire sauce
  • 5g salt
  • 2g black pepper
  • 100g provolone or American cheese slices

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Base:
    • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, and milk
    • Mix gently to avoid overworking the meat
  2. Add Flavor Ingredients:
    • Incorporate diced bell peppers, onions, and minced garlic
    • Add Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper
    • Mix until ingredients are evenly distributed
  3. Shaping the Meatloaf:
    • Transfer mixture to a lined baking sheet or loaf pan
    • Shape into a compact loaf, approximately 9×5 inches
    • Create a slight dome shape for even cooking
  4. Cheese Layer:
    • During the last 15 minutes of baking, layer cheese slices on top
    • Allow cheese to melt and become slightly golden
  5. Baking:
    • Bake for 60-70 minutes
    • Internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C)
    • Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing

Nutritional Information

Per Serving (Approximate):

  • Calories: 380-420
  • Protein: 30g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fat: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 130mg
  • Sodium: 550mg

Cooking Time:

  • Prep: 15 minutes
  • Cooking: 60-70 minutes
  • Resting: 10 minutes
  • Total: 85-90 minutes
  • Servings: 6-8

Pro Cooking Tips

  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure proper doneness
  • For extra moisture, don’t compress the meat too tightly
  • Let meatloaf rest to allow juices to redistribute
  • Use fresh breadcrumbs for a more tender texture
  • Consider mixing beef with ground pork for added richness

Recipe Variations

  • Low-Carb Option: Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour
  • Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes
  • Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs
  • Vegetarian Alternative: Use plant-based ground meat substitute
  • Cheese Variations: Experiment with Swiss, cheddar, or pepper jack cheese

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I prepare this meatloaf in advance? Yes, you can assemble the meatloaf a day ahead and refrigerate before baking.

Q2: How do I prevent the meatloaf from becoming dry? Use a combination of milk and egg, and avoid overcooking. Cover with foil if browning too quickly.

Q3: What side dishes pair well with this meatloaf? Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad complement this dish perfectly.

Q4: Can I freeze this meatloaf? Absolutely! Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in refrigerator before reheating.

Q5: How can I make this recipe more budget-friendly? Look for ground beef on sale, use store-brand cheese, and buy vegetables in season.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

  • Refrigeration: Store in airtight container for 3-4 days
  • Reheating: Warm in oven at 325°F (160°C) to maintain moisture
  • Freezing: Wrap individually, freeze for up to 3 months
  • Meal Prep: Slice and portion for easy weekday lunches

Transform your dinner table with this incredible Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf – a true celebration of flavor and comfort!