Savory Cheesesteak Meatloaf

Ingredients

1 1/2 lb lean ground beef

1 large onion chopped

1 green bell pepper chopped small

1/2 c whole milk

1/2 c mushrooms chopped (optional)

1 tbsp olive oil

1 c bread crumbs regular, Italian style, or panko

1 large egg

1/2 teaspoon salt & 1 teaspoon pepper

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon Adobo seasoning

3 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

8 slices of mozzarella or provolone cheese thick cut

Instructions:

Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Cook Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a skillet. Over medium heat. Add chopped onions and green peppers. And sauté until they are soft and tender.

Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl. Combine the cooked onions and peppers with ground beef, whole milk, mushrooms (if using), bread crumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, Adobo seasoning, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix well with your hands. Until everything is evenly incorporated.

Prepare Loaf Pan: Grease a loaf pan with a little oil. Or non-stick spray. Place half of the meat mixture into the pan. Pressing to form an even layer.

Add Cheese: Lay four slices of cheese over the meat layer.

Add Remaining Meat: Cover the cheese with the remaining meat mixture. Pressing gently to seal the edges.

Bake: Place the loaf pan in the oven. And bake for 30 minutes.

Add More Cheese: Remove the pan from the oven. Add the remaining four slices of cheese on top.

And return to the oven. Bake for another 10-15 minutes. Or until the cheese is melted. And slightly crispy.

Rest and Serve: Let the meatloaf rest. For a few minutes after baking before slicing. This helps the juices settle. And makes the meatloaf easier to cut.

Enjoy! Serve warm slices of your delicious cheesesteak meatloaf and enjoy!

Notes

Ingredient Substitutions:

Feel free to customize the cheese selection based on your preferences. Cheddar, Swiss, or Monterey Jack can be delicious alternatives to mozzarella or provolone.

If you need a gluten-free version of this meatloaf, substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs. Also, ensure that the Worcestershire sauce used is gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten.

Preparation Tips:

Prepare the meatloaf mixture in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator to save time when ready to bake.

Sautéing the onions and peppers before mixing them into the meatloaf adds flavor and helps soften the vegetables, enhancing the overall taste.

Allow the meatloaf to rest for a few minutes after baking before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute and makes slicing easier.

Cooking Techniques:

If the top of the meatloaf starts to brown too quickly during baking, cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent further browning while ensuring the meat cooks through.

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meatloaf, ensuring it reaches 160°F (71°C) to be fully cooked without overcooking.

Customization and Dietary Restrictions:

Adjust the seasoning and spices to suit your taste preferences. Dried herbs can be used instead of powdered ones, with about half the amount needed due to their concentrated flavor.

For an egg-free version, substitute eggs with a flaxseed or chia seed “egg” mixture to bind the ingredients together.

Leftover Ideas:

Leftover meatloaf can be refrigerated for 3-4 days and enjoyed cold or reheated.

Use leftover slices to make sandwiches or add them to salads or pasta dishes for quick and delicious meals.

If you’re looking to enjoy this Savory Cheesesteak Meatloaf. But need it to be gluten-free.

Here’s a simple modification. To keep everything on track. Without compromising taste. Or texture. Substitute the regular bread crumbs.

For a gluten-free alternative. Many stores offer gluten-free bread crumbs. That mimics the texture. And binding properties of traditional ones.

Additionally, ensure your Worcestershire sauce is labeled gluten-free. As some brands may contain traces of gluten.

With these tweaks. You’ll have a delicious, gluten-free meatloaf. That everyone can savor!

Nutrition Information:

YIELDS: 8 | SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I prepare the meatloaf mixture in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator.

When ready to cook, simply assemble the meatloaf in the loaf pan and bake according to the instructions.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While the recipe suggests mozzarella or provolone cheese, you can use any cheese you prefer or have on hand.

Cheddar, Swiss, or Monterey Jack are popular alternatives.

What should I do if the meatloaf starts to brown too quickly during baking?

If you notice the top of the meatloaf browning too quickly, you can loosely cover it with aluminum foil to prevent further browning while it finishes cooking.

How can I make sure the meatloaf holds its shape when slicing?

Allowing the meatloaf to rest for a few minutes after baking before slicing helps it hold its shape better.

Additionally, using a sharp knife to slice the meatloaf can make the process easier and cleaner.

Can I use dried herbs instead of powdered ones?

Yes, you can substitute dried herbs for the powdered ones listed in the recipe.

Use about half the amount of dried herbs as the recipe calls for in powdered form, as dried herbs tend to have a more concentrated flavor.

Is it necessary to sauté the onions and peppers before mixing them with the other ingredients?

Sautéing the onions and peppers before adding them to the meatloaf mixture helps soften them and brings out their flavor.

While it’s not strictly necessary, it enhances the overall taste of the meatloaf.

Can I make this meatloaf without eggs?

Eggs help bind the ingredients together in meatloaf, but if you have an egg allergy or prefer not to use them, you can try substituting with a flaxseed or chia seed “egg” (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed or chia seeds mixed with 3 tablespoons water, let sit for a few minutes until thickened).

What can I do with leftovers?

Leftover meatloaf can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days and enjoyed cold or reheated.

You can also use leftover slices to make sandwiches or chop them up and add them to salads or pasta dishes.

Can I use ground beef with a higher fat content?

While lean ground beef is recommended for a healthier option, you can use ground beef with a higher fat content if you prefer.

Just be aware that it may result in a greasier meatloaf.

How can I ensure my meatloaf is cooked through without overcooking it?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meatloaf.

It should reach 160°F (71°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked. Insert the thermometer into the center of the meatloaf to get an accurate reading.