Description
A creative fusion of two comfort food classics, this Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf combines the hearty, sliceable form of traditional meatloaf with the savory flavors of a Philly cheesesteak. It features juicy ground beef, sautéed onions, bell peppers, and a generous layer of melted provolone cheese, creating a mouthwatering and satisfying dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or feeding a crowd.
Ingredients
2 lbs ground beef (80/20)
1 large onion, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
1 tbsp olive oil
2 large eggs
1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
1/4 cup milk or beef broth
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
8 slices provolone cheese
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or lightly grease a loaf pan.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and bell pepper until soft and slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside to cool slightly.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, sautéed vegetables, eggs, breadcrumbs, milk (or broth), Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, salt, pepper, onion powder, and optional paprika.
4. Use your hands to gently mix all the ingredients until just combined. Avoid overworking the meat to keep the meatloaf tender.
5. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it on your prepared baking sheet or in the loaf pan.
6. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the center reads 160°F (71°C).
7. During the last 10 minutes of baking, remove the meatloaf from the oven and lay the provolone cheese slices over the top.
8. Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for another 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Remove from the oven and let the meatloaf rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist slice.
Notes
Preventing a Dry Meatloaf: To ensure a moist result, use 80/20 ground beef and consider adding a splash of beef broth to the mixture. Sautéing the vegetables beforehand also adds moisture.
Perfect Texture: The combination of breadcrumbs, eggs, and milk acts as a binder, keeping the loaf tender and preventing it from falling apart.
Flavor Enhancements: For an extra cheesy surprise, layer a few slices of provolone in the center of the loaf before baking.
Variations:
– Low-Carb: Replace breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour.
– Lighter Version: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. Add a little olive oil or grated zucchini to maintain moisture.
– Vegan: Use a base of lentils, black beans, or plant-based ground meat with a flax egg binder and vegan cheese.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 375
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 135mg