This Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf is a tasty twist on a classic dish! It combines ground beef with delicious bell peppers, onions, and gooey cheese all mixed in to make a hearty meal.
Who knew meatloaf could taste like a cheesesteak? I love serving it with some simple mashed potatoes or a fresh salad. It’s comfort food with a fun kick! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Using an 80/20 mix of ground beef provides the right balance of flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute with ground turkey or chicken, but be aware they’ll be drier, so add a bit more moisture.
Bell Peppers and Onions: These add sweetness and a classic Philly taste. Feel free to use red or yellow peppers if they’re what you have on hand. For a kick, try adding some diced jalapeños.
Provolone Cheese: This is the cheese that gives it that classic cheesesteak vibe. If you can’t find provolone, mozzarella or even cheddar would do just fine. Experiment with cheeses that melt well!
Breadcrumbs: These help bind everything together. If you want a gluten-free option, use crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour. You can also use oats for a healthier twist.
How Do I Ensure My Meatloaf is Moist and Flavorsome?
To achieve a deliciously moist meatloaf, pay attention to your mixing technique. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf, so mix just until combined. Also, incorporating sautéed vegetables adds moisture—don’t skip this step!
- Sauté the peppers and onions until soft. This not only enhances their flavor but also ensures they add moisture to the meatloaf.
- Let the meatloaf rest after baking. This step is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute, keeping your meatloaf from drying out.
- Using a meat thermometer will also help you avoid overcooking. Aim for an internal temp of 160°F (71°C).
How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 lbs ground beef (80/20 mix for juiciness)
- 1 cup diced green bell peppers
- 1 cup diced onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 8 oz provolone cheese, sliced (divided)
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter for sautéing
- Optional for topping: extra cheese slices
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare and approximately 60-70 minutes to bake. Plus, you should let it rest for about 10 minutes before serving. In total, you’ll be looking at around 1.5 to 2 hours from start to finish. Perfect for a cozy family dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Then, lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup later.
2. Sauté the Veggies:
In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil or butter. Toss in the diced green bell peppers and onions. Sauté them until they become softened and slightly caramelized, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Once done, remove from heat and let them cool slightly.
3. Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, chopped parsley, and the cooled veggies from the skillet. Gently mix everything together until it’s just combined—be careful not to overmix, or your meatloaf might turn out dense!
4. Shape the Meatloaf:
On a clean surface or in your prepared loaf pan, take half of the meat mixture and shape it into a loaf. Press down to ensure it holds its shape well.
5. Add the Cheese Layer:
Next, layer half of the provolone cheese slices directly on top of your shaped meatloaf. This gooey layer is what makes it taste like a traditional Philly cheesesteak!
6. Complete the Meatloaf:
Now, take the remaining meat mixture and carefully place it over the cheese layer. Gently press to seal everything in, ensuring the cheese is well covered. If you’d like, you can top this with the remaining cheese slices for an even cheesier finish.
7. Bake:
Place the meatloaf in your preheated oven and bake for about 60-70 minutes. You’ll want to check that the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.
8. Rest and Serve:
Once it’s done baking, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making for a moist meatloaf when you slice it. After resting, garnish with fresh parsley, slice, and serve hot with your favorite sides!
Enjoy the comforting flavors of this Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf that deliciously marries a classic American favorite with a twist!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for the beef! Just note that turkey tends to be leaner, so you might want to add a bit more moisture, like an extra tablespoon of milk or a splash of broth, to keep the meatloaf juicy.
Can I Make This Meatloaf in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just shape it in the loaf pan, cover it tightly, and bake it when you’re ready to serve. This can save you time on a busy weeknight!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, place slices in the microwave or oven until warmed through. For best results, cover with a damp paper towel in the microwave to prevent drying out.
What Sides Pair Well with Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf?
This meatloaf pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. You could also serve it with some crispy fries or a side of coleslaw for that classic diner feel!
