This Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf combines juicy beef with all the classic cheesesteak flavors. It’s packed with chopped peppers, onions, and topped with gooey cheese!
Honestly, who doesn’t love meatloaf? It’s like a cozy hug on a plate! I love making extra to enjoy leftovers in sandwiches the next day—yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I love using 80/20 ground beef for a juicy meatloaf, but you can swap it for ground turkey or chicken if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just remember, leaner meats may require a little extra moisture.
Cheeses: Provolone gives that classic cheesesteak taste, but mozzarella works great too. If you need a dairy-free option, try a vegan cheese that melts well, or skip the cheese altogether for a lighter version.
Vegetables: The combo of onion, bell pepper, and mushrooms really helps replicate those cheesesteak flavors. Feel free to mix it up! You can use zucchini or even spinach, depending on what you have on hand.
Breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs bind the meatloaf nicely, but if you’re gluten-free, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs or even crushed oats for a healthier spin.
How Do You Make Sure Your Meatloaf is Moist and Fluffy?
Getting the right texture in meatloaf can be tricky, but a few simple tips can help!
- Use the right fat content: 80/20 ground beef is perfect for moisture.
- Don’t overmix the meat mixture; just mix until combined.
- Add the sautéed veggies: They keep the meatloaf juicy and flavorful.
- Let it rest after baking: This helps redistribute the juices, making it easier to slice.
By following these steps, you’ll ensure your meatloaf is tender and delicious every time! Enjoy getting creative with this recipe!
Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 lbs ground beef (preferably 80/20)
- 1 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 cup finely chopped green bell pepper
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Cheese Filling:
- 1 cup shredded provolone cheese (divided)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
Binding Ingredients:
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
Seasoning:
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
For Finishing:
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf will take about 20 minutes to prep and will need to bake for approximately 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes. Don’t forget to let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your meatloaf cooks evenly when you’re ready to bake. Lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later on.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, green bell peppers, and sliced mushrooms. Sauté these until they are tender and caramelized, which should take about 7-8 minutes. During the last minute, stir in the minced garlic, then remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
3. Prepare the Meat Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, add the ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and oregano. Mix gently but thoroughly, being careful not to overwork the meat.
4. Combine with Veggies and Cheese:
Stir in half of the sautéed vegetable mixture along with half of the shredded provolone and mozzarella cheese into the ground beef mixture until just combined.
5. Assemble the Meatloaf:
Transfer half of the meat mixture to the prepared loaf pan and press it evenly to form the bottom layer. Then, layer the remaining sautéed veggies and the remaining shredded cheeses on top of this meat layer. Finally, add the rest of the meat mixture on top, pressing gently to encase the cheese and veggies.
6. Score and Bake:
Lightly score the top of the meatloaf with a knife in a crisscross pattern. If you have any leftover cheese, sprinkle it on top of the loaf. Bake in your preheated oven for the next hour to 1 hour 15 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
7. Rest and Serve:
Once it’s done baking, let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making it easier to slice. Garnish with fresh parsley before slicing and serving hot. Enjoy every bite of this delightful Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf!
Bon Appétit!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Yes, you can! Ground turkey is a great leaner alternative to beef. Just keep in mind that it can be a bit drier, so consider adding an extra egg or a bit more milk for moisture.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Provolone Cheese?
No worries! If you don’t have provolone, you can substitute it with any melting cheese, like cheddar or Swiss. Each will give a slightly different flavor but still delicious!
Can This Meatloaf Be Made Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture a day in advance. Just assemble it in the loaf pan, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. Bake it when you’re ready to enjoy!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in the microwave or a 350°F oven until warmed through. Enjoy it in a sandwich for a tasty twist!