Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf

Introduction:

Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf is a delicious twist on the classic meatloaf, combining all the flavors of a Philly cheesesteak into a hearty and comforting dish. This recipe features a savory blend of sautéed onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms, layered with provolone cheese and ground beef, then baked to perfection.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 1 small green bell pepper, diced
• 8 oz brown mushrooms, minced
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp ketchup
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 2 large eggs
• 2 lbs lean ground beef
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 8 oz provolone cheese slices

Directions

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a loaf pan.
2. Sauté Vegetables: In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, green bell pepper, and minced mushrooms. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, then remove from heat and let cool.
3. Mix Meatloaf: In a large bowl, combine the ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, eggs, lean ground beef, sautéed vegetables, and panko breadcrumbs. Mix until well combined.
4. Assemble Meatloaf: Layer half of the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan, pressing it down evenly. Place a layer of provolone cheese slices on top of the meat, then add the remaining meat mixture, pressing it down to cover the cheese.
5. Bake: Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for 40 minutes. After 40 minutes, remove the loaf pan from the oven and top with additional provolone cheese slices. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the meatloaf is fully cooked.
6. Rest and Serve: Once cooked, let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Servings: 8

Variations

• Cheese: Substitute provolone with cheddar or Swiss cheese for different flavors.
• Vegetables: Add other vegetables like diced tomatoes or jalapeños for extra flavor.
• Ground Meat: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes.

10 FAQs

1. Can I freeze this meatloaf? Yes, you can freeze the meatloaf. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
2. Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely! Cheddar, Swiss, or even a cheese blend can be used instead of provolone.
3. How can I make this recipe gluten-free? Substitute panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats.
4. Can I add other seasonings? Yes, feel free to add additional seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika to enhance the flavor.
5. How do I know when the meatloaf is done? The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) for safe consumption. The meatloaf should also be firm and the cheese should be melted.
6. Can I use ground beef with a higher fat content? While lean ground beef is recommended to avoid excessive grease, you can use higher-fat ground beef if preferred. Just be sure to drain any excess fat before serving.
7. How do I prevent the meatloaf from being too dry? Ensure not to overmix the meatloaf mixture and let it rest after baking to retain moisture.
8. Can I use pre-cooked vegetables? Yes, you can use pre-cooked or frozen vegetables. Just make sure they are well-drained before adding them to the meat mixture.
9. What should I serve with Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf? It pairs well with mashed potatoes, a side salad, or roasted vegetables.
10. Can I prepare this meatloaf in advance? Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture a day ahead and keep it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

Conclusion

Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf brings the classic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak into a comforting meatloaf format. With its savory layers of beef, cheese, and vegetables, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Easy to make and versatile, it’s perfect for a hearty dinner or a make-ahead meal. Enjoy this delicious twist on a traditional favorite!

Print