This fun twist on a classic meatloaf combines ground beef with peppers, onions, and gooey cheese, all packed into one tasty dish. It’s comforting and full of flavor!
If you love cheesesteaks like I do, this meatloaf is a must-try. I like to serve it with a side of mashed potatoes and some sautéed veggies. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Use 80/20 for the best balance of flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works well, but the meatloaf may be a bit drier.
Cheese: Provolone is a classic choice, but feel free to use cheddar or American if that’s what you have on hand. Both will add great flavor and melt beautifully.
Bell Peppers & Onions: These provide nice crunch and sweetness. If you want less color, stick to green peppers. You can also substitute with sautéed mushrooms for a different taste.
Breadcrumbs: Use plain or Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs. If you have stale bread, simply blitz it in a food processor. Gluten-free breadcrumbs are a great option too!
Ketchup: If you prefer a healthier option, try using tomato sauce mixed with a bit of vinegar and honey. It’ll give you a similar tangy flavor without added sugars.
How Do I Ensure My Meatloaf Stays Moist?
Keeping a meatloaf moist is key! Here’s how to achieve that:
- Choose ground beef with some fat, as it keeps the loaf juicy. Leaner meat can dry out.
- Add moisture with ingredients like milk, eggs, and even diced tomatoes. These help bind and add moisture.
- Don’t overmix your ingredients. This keeps the meatloaf tender. Mix just until combined.
- Cover it with a glaze. The ketchup mixture not only adds flavor but also helps to retain moisture during baking.
- Let the meatloaf rest before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute for a juicy slice!
Follow these tips for a delicious, moist Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf every time!
Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
- 1 cup finely diced onion
- 1 cup finely diced green bell pepper
- 1 cup finely diced red bell pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded provolone cheese (plus some extra slices for topping)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 3/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
For the Glaze:
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus 1 hour of baking time in total. With a little patience while it bakes, you’ll have a delicious, cheesy meatloaf ready to enjoy in about 1 hour and 15 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure it’s hot and ready for your meatloaf. Grease a loaf pan lightly, or line a baking tray with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet set over medium heat, add the diced onion, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté these until they are nice and softened—this should take about 5-7 minutes. Once they’re caramelized, take them off the heat and let them cool for a few minutes.
3. Mix the Meatloaf:
In a large mixing bowl, add the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, milk, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, oregano, dried parsley, and thyme. Mix gently but thoroughly until everything is combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
4. Combine the Ingredients:
Fold in the sautéed vegetables along with the shredded provolone and mozzarella cheeses until evenly distributed throughout the meat mixture.
5. Shape the Meatloaf:
Take the meat mixture and shape it into a loaf, or you can press it into the prepared loaf pan. This will give it a nice, uniform shape.
6. Prepare the Glaze:
In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard to create a delightful glaze. Spread about half of this glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
7. Bake the Meatloaf:
Place your meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld beautifully!
8. Add Extra Cheese:
When the time is up, take the meatloaf out of the oven. Carefully top it with extra slices of provolone cheese and spread the remaining glaze over the cheese.
9. Finish Baking:
Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake an additional 15-20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C), and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Let It Rest:
Once done, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This helps it firm up so you can slice it without falling apart.
11. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your meatloaf with some chopped fresh parsley for a lovely color. Slice and serve warm with your favorite sides, like mashed potatoes or steamed veggies. Enjoy your delicious twist on a classic dish!
Bon appétit! Your Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf is ready to please everyone at the table!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that turkey can dry out more easily, so consider adding a bit more milk or vegetables to keep it moist.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or slice and heat in a skillet over low heat for an even temperature throughout.
Can I Freeze Meatloaf?
Yes, you can freeze meatloaf! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or place it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What Sides Pair Well With This Meatloaf?
This Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, steamed broccoli, or a simple green salad. For a fun twist, consider serving it with french fries or roasted vegetable medley!
