Loaded Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf

Welcome to a culinary adventure where two beloved comfort foods unite: the savory, hearty meatloaf and the iconic, cheesy delight of a Philly Cheesesteak. This innovative **Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf recipe** offers a fresh, vegetable-packed twist on traditional meatloaf, promising a burst of flavor that will impress both family and friends. It’s not just a delicious meal; it’s also a clever way to incorporate wholesome vegetables into your diet, even for the most discerning palates.

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Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf: A Unique Dinner Idea

This recipe ingeniously combines all the delicious elements of a classic Philly cheesesteak – succulent beef, perfectly sautéed onions, peppers, and mushrooms, and layers of gooey, melted cheese – with the comforting, straightforward preparation of a traditional meatloaf. It’s a culinary mashup that delivers on both taste and satisfaction, making it an instant family favorite.

• Experience a delightful blend of textures and tastes, where the robust flavor of ground beef meets the sweetness of caramelized vegetables and the creamy richness of cheese.
• Even the pickiest eaters will find it hard to resist the cheesy, savory goodness of this dish. The inclusion of finely diced vegetables ensures a healthier meal without compromising on flavor, making it a win-win for everyone at the table.
• Whether you’re planning a cozy weeknight dinner or hosting a casual gathering, this meatloaf stands out as a reliable crowd-pleaser. Its familiar yet unique profile makes it a versatile main course for any occasion.
• By using sautéed vegetables and high-quality ground beef, you’ll achieve a meatloaf with a distinctly rich and savory flavor profile, setting it apart from your usual meatloaf recipes and adding a special touch to your family dinners.

Once you try this hearty meatloaf recipe, its unique flavor and comforting appeal will likely earn it a permanent spot in your rotation. If your family enjoys the classic taste of meatloaf, consider exploring other exciting variations like this Cracker Barrel Meatloaf or a zesty Salsa Meatloaf for your next dinner inspiration!

Essential Ingredients for Your Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf

Crafting the perfect Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf starts with selecting the right ingredients. This section provides an overview of what you’ll need, along with helpful notes on substitutions and tips for the best flavor. For precise measurements and step-by-step instructions, please refer to the detailed recipe card at the bottom of this page.

Ingredient Notes and Tips:

• Olive Oil: Essential for sautéing the vegetables and building the foundational flavors. If olive oil is unavailable, quality vegetable oil or melted butter can be used as a suitable alternative.
• Fresh Vegetables: This recipe calls for a vibrant trio of green bell pepper, yellow onion, and fresh mushrooms. Dicing them finely ensures they blend seamlessly into the meatloaf, adding moisture and a delightful savory depth without overwhelming the texture.
• Lean Ground Beef: For optimal results, a 90/10 lean ground beef is recommended as it provides ample flavor while minimizing excess grease. However, an 80/20 blend can also be used if you prefer a richer, slightly fattier meatloaf. Remember that fattier beef may render more fat during cooking, which you might want to drain before serving.
• Aromatic Seasonings: A blend of garlic powder, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and salt forms the backbone of the meatloaf’s savory profile. These common pantry staples are crucial for creating a well-rounded and aromatic dish that truly shines.
• Tomato Paste: This concentrated ingredient adds a rich, umami depth and a subtle tangy sweetness that complements the beef and vegetables beautifully. In a pinch, a tablespoon or two of ketchup can provide a similar, though slightly sweeter, flavor.
• Worcestershire Sauce: A secret weapon for adding an incredible depth of flavor and savoriness to meat dishes. Its complex profile enhances the overall taste of the meatloaf. If you don’t have it on hand, soy sauce can be a good substitute, offering a similar salty and umami kick.
• Breadcrumbs: Plain breadcrumbs are preferred as they absorb moisture and help bind the meatloaf mixture without introducing competing flavors. Italian-style breadcrumbs can also be used if that’s what you have, adding a herbaceous note.
• Milk: A small amount of milk is key to keeping the meatloaf moist and tender. Low-fat, 2%, or whole milk all work well, contributing to a juicy final product.
• Egg: Acts as a crucial binding agent, helping to hold the meatloaf together and ensuring it slices cleanly without crumbling.
• Provolone Cheese: For an authentic Philly cheesesteak experience, Provolone cheese is the traditional choice, offering a mild, slightly nutty flavor and excellent melting properties. However, feel free to experiment with other meltable cheeses such as American, Monterey Jack, or Mozzarella, depending on your family’s preference for a creamier or sharper cheese profile.

Adaptable Recipe: Make This Meatloaf Your Own

One of the best aspects of this Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf recipe is its versatility. Don’t hesitate to customize it to suit your tastes or whatever ingredients you have on hand. Here are some ideas to make this dish uniquely yours:

• Protein Swap: For a lighter meal, easily substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or ground chicken. Adjust cooking times slightly as leaner meats may cook faster.
• Add Some Heat: If you enjoy a bit of spice, mix in some finely diced jalapeños or a generous pinch of cayenne pepper to the meatloaf mixture for an exciting kick.
• Cheese Exploration: While Provolone is classic, feel free to experiment with other cheeses. Sharp cheddar can add a tangy bite, mozzarella offers extra stretchiness, and pepper jack will introduce a spicy element. You can even combine different cheeses for a more complex flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Simply swap out traditional breadcrumbs for your favorite gluten-free alternative to make this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
• Boost the Veggies: Want even more nutrition? Incorporate finely chopped spinach or grated zucchini into the meatloaf mixture. These additions will boost the vegetable content without significantly altering the flavor or texture.
• Enhanced Topping: Before serving, consider drizzling your cooked meatloaf with a savory steak sauce or a homemade mushroom gravy for an extra layer of flavor.

Before You Begin: Essential Tools

Having the right kitchen tools makes the cooking process much smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s a list of essential items you’ll need for this recipe:

• 9.5 x 5” Loaf Pan: This is the standard size for meatloaf and ensures even cooking and a classic loaf shape.
• Medium Skillet: Perfect for sautéing your vegetables to tender perfection before they are mixed into the beef.
• Large Bowl: You’ll need a spacious bowl to comfortably mix all the meatloaf ingredients without making a mess.

For more of my favorite kitchen essentials and cooking gadgets, be sure to check out my Amazon storefront!

Step-by-Step Instructions for Your Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf

Creating this delicious Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf is straightforward. Follow these instructions carefully to ensure a perfectly cooked and flavorful dish. A more detailed version of these steps, including exact measurements and preparation tips, is available in the printable recipe card below.

1. Prepare Your Pan and Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the inside of your 9.5 x 5-inch loaf pan with non-stick cooking spray. For easier removal and cleanup, consider lining the bottom and sides with a strip of parchment paper, leaving an overhang to lift the loaf out later.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Heat two teaspoons of olive oil in a medium skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced green bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms. Sauté, stirring occasionally, until the peppers become tender-crisp and the mushrooms achieve a light golden-brown color, which typically takes about 2 to 3 minutes. Once cooked, remove the skillet from heat and set the vegetables aside to cool slightly.
3. Combine Beef and Seasonings: In a large mixing bowl, place the lean ground beef. Add the garlic powder, salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce. Using clean hands or a sturdy wooden spoon, thoroughly mix these ingredients into the beef until well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a tough meatloaf.
4. Integrate Remaining Ingredients: To the seasoned ground beef mixture, add the milk, egg, and breadcrumbs. Now, fold in the cooled sautéed vegetables (green peppers, onions, and mushrooms) until evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
5. Add the Cheese (Internal): Take half of the Provolone slices and cut them into small squares. Gently incorporate these cheese pieces into the meatloaf mixture, ensuring they are separated and well-dispersed. This will create pockets of melted cheese within the loaf.
6. Shape and Bake: Firmly press the entire Philly Cheesesteak meatloaf mixture into your prepared loaf pan. Ensure it’s evenly distributed and slightly mounded. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for approximately 40 to 45 minutes, or until an instant-read meat thermometer inserted into the center of the loaf registers an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
7. Top with Cheese and Melt: Once the meatloaf reaches the desired internal temperature, carefully remove it from the oven. Cut the remaining Provolone slices in half and artfully arrange them over the top of the hot meatloaf. Return the pan to the oven and continue baking for about 5 additional minutes, or until the cheese is beautifully melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
8. Rest and Serve: Remove the finished meatloaf from the oven and allow it to rest in the pan for at least 10 minutes. This crucial resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful meatloaf that holds its shape beautifully when sliced. After resting, carefully remove the meatloaf from the pan, slice, and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious homemade Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf!

Your Questions Answered: FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions to help you master your Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf:

My Top Tips for a Perfect Meatloaf

Achieving a consistently delicious and perfectly textured meatloaf is easy with these insider tips:

• Avoid Overmixing: This is perhaps the most crucial tip. Overmixing the meatloaf mixture can lead to a dense, tough, and dry loaf. Mix the ingredients until they are just combined, ensuring everything is evenly distributed without compacting the meat fibers too much. Gentle handling will result in a tender, juicy meatloaf.
• Don’t Skip the Resting Time: After removing the meatloaf from the oven, it’s tempting to slice into it immediately. However, allowing it to rest for 10 minutes is vital. This period allows the juices to redistribute evenly throughout the loaf, resulting in a more flavorful and moist outcome. It also helps the meatloaf firm up, making it much easier to slice neatly without falling apart.
• Try Mini Meatloaves for Faster Cooking: If you’re pressed for time or looking for individual servings, consider baking mini meatloaves in a muffin tin. They cook much faster than a large loaf and are perfect for portion control or for serving to children. Adjust baking time accordingly, checking for an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).

Storage and Reheating Instructions

This Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf makes excellent leftovers! Here’s how to store and reheat it to maintain its delicious flavor and texture:

Refrigerate: Allow any leftover meatloaf to cool completely to room temperature. Once cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or transfer slices to an airtight container. Stored properly, it will keep fresh in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

Freeze: For longer storage, freeze individual slices of cooled meatloaf. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. This method prevents freezer burn and makes it easy to grab individual portions. Frozen meatloaf can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw frozen slices overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheat: To reheat larger portions or multiple slices, place them on a baking sheet and warm in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for approximately 20 minutes, or until thoroughly heated through. For individual slices, the microwave is a convenient option; heat for 1-2 minutes, checking for warmth, until hot. Be careful not to overheat, which can dry out the meatloaf.

Make Ahead for Easy Weeknight Dinners

Preparing this Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf in advance is a fantastic time-saver for busy weeknights. You can assemble the entire meatloaf mixture, shape it into a loaf, and place it in your prepared loaf pan a day before you plan to bake it. Cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, simply remove it from the fridge and pop it into the preheated oven. You may need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time since it will be starting cold, so always check for that internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).

Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Your Meatloaf

A delicious meatloaf deserves equally delightful side dishes. Here are some perfect pairings to complete your meal:

• For the ultimate comfort food experience, nothing beats creamy mashed potatoes. Try these Instant Pot Garlic Mashed Potatoes for a quick and flavorful option, or for an extra indulgent touch, these Cheesy Mashed Potatoes are always a hit.
• Don’t forget your greens! Complement the richness of the meatloaf with vibrant vegetables. Mediterranean Roasted Vegetables offer a flavorful and healthy contrast, or keep it simple with a crisp and refreshing salad like this Mediterranean Chickpea Salad.
• Other excellent choices include green beans, corn on the cob, a simple garden salad with vinaigrette, or even a side of buttered noodles to soak up any delicious juices.

You’ll Also Love These Bell Pepper Recipes

If your family enjoys cooking with bell peppers and exploring diverse flavors, here are some other fantastic recipes featuring this versatile vegetable that you should definitely add to your meal plan soon:

• Philly Cheesesteak Casserole: All the flavors of a cheesesteak in an easy-to-make casserole form.
• Taco Stuffed Bell Peppers: Flavorful taco meat mixture baked inside tender bell peppers.
• Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole: A hearty and comforting casserole that combines all the goodness of traditional stuffed peppers.

For All Meatloaf Lovers

Meatloaves hold a special place in our hearts as one of the ultimate comfort food dinners. Their versatility and ability to feed a crowd make them a household staple. Here are some of our family’s most cherished meatloaf recipes that we think you’ll adore:

• Meatloaf Recipe With Breadcrumbs
• Meatloaf with Oatmeal
• Cracker Barrel Meatloaf
• Meatloaf Cupcakes

At my home, meatloaves are devoured so quickly that I’m lucky to get a slice! That’s why I often double the recipe. The added bonus? Delicious meatloaf sandwiches to enjoy for lunch the next day!

Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf

Transform your favorite Philly Cheesesteak sandwich into a comforting and flavorful meatloaf. This family-friendly recipe is packed with savory beef, tender vegetables, and gooey cheese, making it perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner when paired with pasta or creamy mashed potatoes.

• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Halal
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Cool time: 10 minutes
• Servings: 6 Servings

Author: Amira

Ingredients

• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 green pepper (about ½ cup diced)
• 1 small onion (about ½ cup diced)
• 8 oz whole fresh mushrooms (about 1 cup diced)
• 1 – 1.5 pounds lean ground beef (90/10 recommended)
• 1 ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon table salt
• 4 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 2 Tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 Tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (Italian style or plain)
• ¼ cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 6 slices Provolone (divided, or 6 oz of your favorite cheese)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Spray the sides and bottom of a 9.5 x 5-inch loaf pan with non-stick spray. For easier removal, you may line it with a piece of parchment paper.
2. Heat olive oil in a medium skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté the diced green peppers, onions, and mushrooms. Cook until the peppers are tender and mushrooms are slightly browned, approximately 2 to 3 minutes. Set aside to cool.
3. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef with garlic powder, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix thoroughly using a wooden spoon or clean hands.
4. Add the remaining ingredients: milk, egg, breadcrumbs, and the cooled sautéed vegetables (mushrooms, onions, and peppers) to the beef mixture. Mix until just combined.
5. Take half of the Provolone slices and cut them into squares. Gently mix these cheese squares into the meatloaf mixture, ensuring they are well incorporated throughout the loaf.
6. Press the Philly Cheesesteak meatloaf mixture firmly into the prepared loaf pan. Bake uncovered for approximately 40 to 45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
7. Remove the meatloaf from the oven. Cut the remaining Provolone slices in half and layer them over the top of the meatloaf. Return to the oven and bake for another 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. This allows the meatloaf to set, making it easier to slice and ensuring it remains juicy. Slice and serve warm.

Notes

• Customize your cheese choice: use cheddar for a sharper taste, or mozzarella or American cheese for a milder, creamier flavor.
• For a different texture, you can cube cheese into larger blocks for chunkier pockets of melted cheese within the meatloaf, or use shredded cheese mixed in and on top.

Nutrition

Calories: 269kcal | Carbohydrates: 15g | Protein: 25g | Fat: 12g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 0.3g | Cholesterol: 89mg | Sodium: 899mg | Potassium: 546mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 404IU | Vitamin C: 19mg | Calcium: 222mg | Iron: 4mg

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