This Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf combines ground beef with tasty peppers, onions, and melted cheese for a tasty twist. It’s a cozy meal that feels special but is super easy to make!
It’s like having a cheesesteak for dinner without the mess of a sandwich! I love serving it with a side of mashed potatoes; that’s a winning combo for sure! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I love using an 80/20 blend for the right balance of flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, 90/10 is fine. You can also use ground turkey or chicken if you’re watching fat content.
Peppers and Onions: Green bell peppers give a nice crunch, but you can swap them for red or yellow peppers for a sweeter taste. For onions, cooking them until soft sweetens their flavor. I sometimes throw in some diced jalapeños for extra kick!
Cheese: Provolone is my favorite for its meltiness and flavor. If you can’t find provolone, Swiss or mozzarella works, too. For a sharper taste, try cheddar.
Breadcrumbs: I use Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs for extra flavor. You can replace them with plain breadcrumbs or even crushed crackers if that’s what you have on hand.
How Do I Ensure My Meatloaf Stays Moist?
Keeping meatloaf moist can be tricky, but don’t worry! Here are some helpful tips:
- Use a good mix of ground beef, like the 80/20 blend, for fat and flavor.
- Add milk and eggs to keep the meat moist and bind everything well.
- Don’t overmix; gentle mixing retains a nice texture.
- Make sure to let it rest after baking — this helps the juices redistribute!
Following these steps ensures you get a tasty, juicy meatloaf every time. Happy cooking!
Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 1 cup diced green bell peppers
- 1 cup diced onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded provolone cheese (divided)
- 1 cup Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter (for sautéing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf will take about 15 minutes to prepare, and you’ll need around 1 hour in the oven. After some slight resting time, you’ll be ready to serve in about an hour and 15 minutes total. Perfect for a comforting family dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Then, lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper to make cleanup easier.
2. Sauté the Veggies:
In a skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the diced green bell peppers, onions, garlic, and mushrooms (if using). Sauté the mixture for about 5-7 minutes until everything is nice and softened. Once done, remove from heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
3. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, sautéed vegetables, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, oregano, and basil. Mix everything gently but well, ensuring it’s blended without overworking it which helps keep the meatloaf tender.
4. Shape the Meatloaf:
Take half of the meat mixture and place it onto the prepared baking surface, shaping it into a loaf. If you’re using a loaf pan, you can add half into it directly.
5. Add Cheese:
Sprinkle approximately 3/4 cup of shredded provolone cheese evenly over the loaf you formed.
6. Complete the Meatloaf:
Top with the remaining meat mixture, smoothing it over to completely cover the cheese and form a neat loaf shape.
7. Bake:
Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake it uncovered for 45 minutes.
8. Add More Cheese:
After the initial baking time, take the meatloaf out and spread the remaining provolone cheese over the top. Return it to bake for an additional 15 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Rest and Slice:
Once done, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. This allows the juices to settle and makes slicing easier.
10. Serve:
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and slice the meatloaf. It pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes or a green salad for a wonderful meal!
Enjoy your Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf — a flavorful and hearty dish that combines the best of a Philly cheesesteak into comforting meatloaf form!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative. Just keep in mind that turkey can be a bit drier than beef, so adding a little extra moisture through milk or vegetables may be beneficial.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it! Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll last about 2-3 months in the freezer.
What Sides Go Well with This Meatloaf?
This meatloaf pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, a fresh green salad, or crispy roasted vegetables. You could also serve it with a side of fries for a fun twist!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture a day in advance. Just assemble the meatloaf and cover it tightly in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it, which can make dinner time a breeze!
