Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Favorite

Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf is a delightful twist on two classic comfort foods that brings the best of both worlds to your dinner table. Imagine the rich, savory flavors of a traditional Philly cheesesteak melded into a hearty meatloaf, creating a dish that is not only satisfying but also incredibly delicious. This recipe has its roots in the iconic Philadelphia cheesesteak, a beloved sandwich that has been a staple in American cuisine since the early 20th century. People adore this dish for its perfect balance of taste and texture; the juicy meatloaf is infused with the flavors of sautéed onions, bell peppers, and gooey cheese, making every bite a mouthwatering experience.

What makes Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf even more appealing is its convenience. It’s an easy-to-make dish that can feed a crowd, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Plus, the leftovers are just as tasty, allowing you to enjoy this comforting meal for days to come. So, if you’re looking to impress your loved ones with a unique and flavorful dish, this Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf is sure to become a new favorite in your household!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend for best flavor)
• 1 pound ground pork
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian seasoned)
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1 cup shredded provolone cheese
• 1/2 cup ketchup (for topping)
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard (for topping)

Preparing the Meatloaf Mixture

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the perfect temperature for cooking the meatloaf evenly.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and ground pork. I like to use a combination of meats for added flavor and moisture.
3. Add the breadcrumbs to the meat mixture. This will help bind everything together and give the meatloaf a nice texture.
4. Pour in the milk. This will keep the meatloaf moist and tender.
5. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese. It adds a wonderful depth of flavor.
6. In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion and green bell pepper until they are soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
7. Let the sautéed vegetables cool slightly, then add them to the meat mixture.
8. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, oregano, thyme, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.

Shaping the Meatloaf

9. Transfer the meat mixture to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a lightly greased loaf pan. If you’re using a baking sheet, shape the mixture into a loaf shape, about 8 inches long and 4 inches wide.
10. Using your hands, create a small indentation along the center of the meatloaf. This will hold the cheese and prevent it from spilling out during cooking.
11. Fill the indentation with the shredded provolone cheese. This is where the cheesesteak magic happens!
12. Carefully fold the sides of the meatloaf over the cheese to encase it completely. Make sure the cheese is well-covered to prevent it from leaking out while baking.

Baking the Meatloaf

13. In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup and yellow mustard. This will be the glaze for the top of the meatloaf.
14. Spread the ketchup and mustard mixture evenly over the top of the meatloaf. This adds a nice tangy flavor and helps keep the meatloaf moist.
15. Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). I recommend using a meat thermometer for accuracy.
16. Halfway through baking, you can baste the meatloaf with the juices that accumulate in the pan for extra flavor and moisture.

Resting and Serving

17. Once the meatloaf is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making for a juicier slice.
18. Carefully transfer the meatloaf to a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to slice it into thick pieces, about 1 inch wide.
19. Serve the meatloaf warm, and if you like, you can drizzle a little extra ketchup on top

Conclusion:

In wrapping up this delightful journey into the world of Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf, I can confidently say that this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their dinner game. The combination of savory ground beef, melty cheese, and the unmistakable flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak all wrapped up in a comforting meatloaf is simply irresistible. It’s a dish that not only satisfies your hunger but also brings a sense of nostalgia and warmth to the table. For serving suggestions, I recommend pairing this meatloaf with a side of crispy roasted potatoes or a fresh garden salad to balance out the richness. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding some sautéed mushrooms or jalapeños for an extra kick, or even swapping out the provolone for a sharp cheddar to give it a different twist. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility, allowing you to customize it to your taste preferences. I truly encourage you to give this Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf a try. I promise it will become a family favorite in no time! Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience. Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a photo of your creation. Let’s spread the love for this delicious dish together! Happy cooking!

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