This Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf is a fun twist on the classic! It’s packed with tender beef, melty cheese, and colorful peppers all mixed in for a yummy surprise.
It’s like a cheesesteak hug in loaf form! I love making this for dinner, and my family always asks for seconds. Serve it with some fries, and you have a meal that feels like a party!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: For the best flavor, an 80/20 ratio is ideal. However, if you prefer leaner meat, go for ground turkey or chicken. They will work fine but might require added fat for moisture.
Provolone Cheese: Provolone adds a nice melty texture. If you can’t find it, try mozzarella or cheddar. Both will give you that gooey cheese feel!
Peppers and Onions: Use green and red bell peppers for color and sweetness. If you’re allergic to peppers, zucchini or mushrooms can be a great alternative for added flavor.
Breadcrumbs: I use plain breadcrumbs to bind everything together. If gluten-free is a concern, swap them for gluten-free breadcrumbs or finely crushed oats.
How Can I Ensure My Meatloaf is Tender?
Mixing the ingredients right is key! Don’t overmix your meat mixture. Overmixing can lead to a dense meatloaf, which isn’t what we want here.
- After cooking the veggies, let them cool before adding them to the meat so they don’t cook the meat.
- Use your hands to gently mix just until the ingredients come together for a nice tender texture.
Also, letting the meatloaf rest after baking is essential. This way, the juices redistribute, making each slice moist and flavorful.
Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (preferably 80/20)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/2 cup finely chopped green bell pepper
- 1/2 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded provolone cheese (plus extra slices for topping)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
Time Needed
This wonderful meatloaf takes about 15 minutes to prep and roughly 1 hour of cooking time, including a short resting period before slicing. So in about an hour and 15 minutes, you’ll have a tasty dinner ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While waiting for the oven, lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup later.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a skillet over medium heat, add the chopped onions, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper. Sauté them until they become soft and slightly caramelized, which should take about 5-7 minutes. After that, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Remove the skillet from heat, letting it cool a little.
3. Mix Ingredients:
In a large bowl, add the ground beef, cooled sautéed veggies, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Using your hands or a spoon, mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this helps keep the meatloaf tender.
4. Add Cheese:
Gently fold in the shredded provolone cheese into the meat mixture. This will give the meatloaf that cheesy delicious goodness throughout!
5. Shape the Meatloaf:
On your prepared baking sheet or in the loaf pan, shape the mixture into a loaf. Take your time to make it even and nice.
6. Bake:
Place your meatloaf in the oven and bake for about 45 minutes.
7. Add More Cheese:
Once the 45 minutes are up, take the meatloaf out of the oven and add some slices of provolone cheese on top. Put it back in the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly browned.
8. Rest and Slice:
When you remove the meatloaf from the oven, let it rest for about 10 minutes. This will help keep it moist when slicing it.
9. Serve:
Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve warm. Enjoy with your favorite sides like fries or a nice green salad!
This recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors, bringing the classic taste of a Philly cheesesteak right into a comforting meatloaf form. Your family and friends will love it!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used for a leaner option. Keep in mind that these types may require added moisture, so you might consider using more milk or adding a bit of olive oil to keep the meatloaf juicy.
How Do I Store Leftover Meatloaf?
Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or in an oven set to 350°F (175°C) until heated through, ensuring it stays moist.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to mix in other vegetables, like chopped mushrooms or zucchini, for additional flavor. Just make sure to keep the overall moisture content in check, as extra veggies can add water to the mix.
What Can I Serve with Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf?
This dish pairs wonderfully with fries, a simple green salad, or roasted vegetables. You can also serve it with a side of mashed potatoes for a comforting meal!