Imagine the savory, melted goodness of a Philly cheesesteak meeting the comforting familiarity of a meatloaf. This Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf recipe is a unique and hearty blend of both worlds, combining seasoned ground beef with sautĂ©ed onions and peppers, rich Provolone cheese, and a burst of flavor from Worcestershire sauce and garlic. Itâs a family-friendly meal thatâs as satisfying as it is easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners. Plus, itâs a fantastic make-ahead option and freezer-friendly, so you can enjoy it whenever you crave a slice of comfort.
This Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf takes the beloved components of a cheesesteak â the juicy beef, melted cheese, and flavor-packed veggies â and bakes them into a single loaf of cheesy deliciousness. With every slice, you get layers of melted cheese intertwined with savory beef and vegetables, making it an irresistible, crowd-pleasing dish. This dish is a fun and flavorful twist on traditional meatloaf, and itâs sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients
- Ground beef (85% lean) â 1 lb
- Onion, finely chopped â 1 medium
- Green bell pepper, finely chopped â 1
- Garlic, minced â 2 cloves
- Worcestershire sauce â 2 tbsp
- Salt â 1 tsp
- Black pepper â Âœ tsp
- Provolone cheese, sliced â 6 slices
- Panko breadcrumbs â Ÿ cup
- Eggs, beaten â 2
- Milk â ÂŒ cup
- Olive oil â 1 tbsp
This list of ingredients is carefully chosen to bring out the authentic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak while maintaining the integrity of a classic meatloaf. Each ingredient adds depth and character, from the aromatic garlic and onions to the creamy, melt-in-your-mouth Provolone cheese.
Preparation
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure the meatloaf bakes evenly and fully, achieving a golden crust on the outside while staying moist and flavorful on the inside.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
- In a medium skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until softened and fragrant. Set the mixture aside to cool slightly before adding it to the beef mixture.
Step 3: Prepare the Meat Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, breadcrumbs, beaten eggs, and milk. Using clean hands or a spatula, mix the ingredients together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf dense and tough.
Step 4: Add the Sautéed Vegetables
- Once the vegetable mixture has cooled, gently fold it into the meat mixture until evenly incorporated. The onions, bell peppers, and garlic infuse the meat with rich, savory flavors and add a touch of texture to each bite.
Step 5: Shape the Meatloaf
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Transfer the beef mixture to the prepared baking sheet, and using your hands, shape it into a loaf approximately 2 inches thick. The loaf shape helps it cook evenly, giving you a nice crust and tender inside.
Step 6: Layer the Provolone Cheese
- Place the Provolone cheese slices evenly on top of the meatloaf, slightly overlapping them to cover the entire surface. This step creates a melty, gooey cheese layer that gives every slice that unmistakable cheesesteak feel.
Step 7: Bake
- Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes or until an internal thermometer inserted into the center of the loaf reads 160°F (71°C). If desired, you can switch to broil for the last 2-3 minutes to give the cheese a golden, bubbly finish.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
- Allow the meatloaf to rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. Resting helps keep the meatloaf moist and allows the cheese to set, making it easier to serve neat slices.
Variations and Customization Ideas
One of the best things about Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf is its versatility. Here are a few ways to customize the recipe:
- Add Mushrooms: SautĂ©ed mushrooms add an earthy depth that pairs beautifully with the other flavors. You can add about Âœ cup of chopped mushrooms to the onion and pepper mixture.
- Switch Up the Cheese: While Provolone is traditional for Philly cheesesteaks, feel free to experiment with cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a spicier kick.
- Try a Keto Alternative: Swap the breadcrumbs for almond flour and reduce the onion quantity slightly for a keto-friendly version.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the meat mixture for a bit of heat.
These variations allow you to enjoy a new version of Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf each time, keeping it exciting and fresh.
Cooking Notes
Here are a few extra tips to ensure the best results:
- Avoid Overmixing: Overworking the meat mixture can result in a tough, dense meatloaf. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Checking the internal temperature helps you avoid overcooking or undercooking. The ideal internal temperature for meatloaf is 160°F (71°C).
- Let it Rest: This step is crucial. Allowing the meatloaf to rest before slicing helps retain moisture and ensures cleaner cuts.
Serving Suggestions
Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf is a flavorful main dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Here are a few options:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes add comfort and richness to the meal.
- Roasted Vegetables: Oven-roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus make a colorful and nutritious addition.
- Garlic Bread: The cheesy, buttery bread complements the savory flavors of the meatloaf.
- Crisp Green Salad: A refreshing salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds contrast to the rich meatloaf.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fat: 28g
FAQs
Q: Can I make this meatloaf in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the meatloaf up to a day in advance. Wrap it tightly and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Q: How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F until heated through, or microwave individual slices.
Q: Can I freeze Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf?
Absolutely! Wrap the cooked meatloaf tightly in foil, place it in a freezer-safe bag, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven at 350°F.
Q: Can I use a different meat instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or a mix of beef and pork can be used for a different flavor profile. Adjust seasoning as needed.Tips for the Best Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf
- Choose Quality Meat: 85% lean ground beef strikes the perfect balance between flavor and moisture.
- Use Fresh Veggies: Freshly chopped onions and bell peppers provide the best texture and flavor.
- Sauté the Veggies First: This brings out their sweetness and prevents them from being crunchy in the final dish.
- Try a Nonstick Meatloaf Pan: These pans allow for easy removal, ensuring a nice, even shape for serving.Conclusion
Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf is a delightful fusion of two beloved comfort foods, making it an exciting dish thatâs both satisfying and full of flavor. From the juicy beef mixture to the melted Provolone and seasoned veggies, this recipe brings together all the best elements of a classic Philly cheesesteak in a cozy, family-friendly meatloaf. Itâs a unique meal thatâs perfect for weeknight dinners, gatherings, or simply when you want to try something new in the kitchen.
If youâre looking for a comforting, cheesy, and flavorful dish to share with loved ones, give this Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf a try. Itâs sure to become a repeat favorite, earning a spot in your regular meal rotation. Enjoy the deliciousness, and let this dish bring a little Philly-inspired magic to your dinner table!