If you’re a fan of the classic Philly cheesesteak sandwich, you’ll love It’s the perfect blend of savory, juicy beef, sautéed onions, peppers, and a gooey cheese filling. Imagine biting into a slice of this meatloaf and experiencing the same flavors as a cheesesteak, but with the added comfort of a hearty meatloaf. This dish is not only mouthwatering but also perfect for a family dinner, special occasion, or meal prep for the week. Let’s dive into the Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf recipe and explore the steps, tips, and variations you can try to make this dish your own!
Ingredients
The following ingredients are used to create a traditional Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf. Each brings its own flavor and texture, resulting in a meal that’s both satisfying and reminiscent of the iconic Philly sandwich:
Meatloaf Base
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Ground beef (2 lbs): Use 80/20 ground beef to maintain the right balance of fat and flavor. The fat keeps the meatloaf moist.
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Breadcrumbs (1 cup): Helps bind the meatloaf together, adding texture. You can use plain or seasoned breadcrumbs.
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Eggs (2 large): Act as a binder to keep the meat mixture cohesive.
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Milk (1/2 cup): Softens the breadcrumbs and adds moisture to the meatloaf.
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Worcestershire sauce (2 tbsp): Deepens the umami flavor, adding richness to the meat.
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Garlic powder (1 tsp): Enhances the savory flavor.
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Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning the meat base.
Cheesesteak Filling
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Onions (1 large, thinly sliced): Adds sweetness and a signature Philly cheesesteak element.
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Green bell peppers (1 large, thinly sliced): A classic topping in a Philly cheesesteak, adding texture and flavor.
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Mushrooms (optional, 1/2 cup sliced): While not traditional, mushrooms add an earthy flavor that complements the other ingredients.
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Provolone cheese (8 slices): Melts beautifully into the center of the meatloaf, providing that cheesy surprise when sliced open.
Topping
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Ketchup (1/4 cup): Used as a glaze to give the top of the meatloaf a tangy-sweet finish.
Optional Variations
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Cheddar cheese: For a stronger cheese flavor, you can swap provolone for sharp cheddar.
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Pepper Jack cheese: If you prefer a bit of spice, pepper jack adds a nice kick.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf Base
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined. Overmixing can result in a dense meatloaf, so mix until all ingredients are evenly incorporated but not too tightly packed.
Tip:
If you prefer a slightly leaner meatloaf, you can substitute part of the ground beef with ground turkey or ground pork. Just remember that using too lean a meat will result in a dryer loaf.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms (if using) and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables have softened and begun to caramelize. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. This step is crucial, as it allows the vegetables to release their moisture and intensify their flavor, preventing them from making the meatloaf soggy.
Tip:
For a deeper, richer flavor, you can add a splash of balsamic vinegar to the sautéed vegetables. This gives them a slight tanginess that pairs well with the beef.
Step 3: Layer the Meatloaf
Now comes the fun part—layering! Take half of the meat mixture and press it evenly into the bottom of a greased loaf pan. This will form the bottom layer of your meatloaf. Then, spread the sautéed vegetables over this layer, making sure they are distributed evenly. Finally, lay the provolone cheese slices on top of the vegetables, ensuring that the cheese covers as much of the vegetables as possible.
Step 4: Seal and Shape
Take the remaining meat mixture and press it over the cheese and vegetable layers, carefully sealing the edges so that the filling stays enclosed during cooking. Once sealed, smooth the top of the meatloaf and apply an even layer of ketchup over the surface.
Tip:
If you want a crispier, caramelized top, you can mix a little brown sugar into the ketchup before spreading it over the meatloaf.
Step 5: Bake
Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 55-65 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C) and the meat is cooked through. If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can loosely cover the meatloaf with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Once fully cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. Resting is key to ensuring the juices redistribute throughout the meat, making each slice moist and flavorful.
Tip:
Use a serrated knife for slicing the meatloaf to avoid tearing the filling.
Pairing Suggestions
Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf is a robust, flavorful dish, so you’ll want side dishes and beverages that complement it without overwhelming the palate.
Sides
- Roasted potatoes: Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, they pair well with the rich flavors of the meatloaf.
- Steamed broccoli: Adds a fresh, slightly bitter contrast to the savory, cheesy meatloaf.
- Garlic bread: For a truly indulgent meal, serve with garlic bread to soak up any extra juices.
Beverages
- Red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon): A bold red wine enhances the flavors of the beef and cheese. The tannins in the wine cut through the richness, creating a balanced experience.
- Craft beer (IPA): The hoppy bitterness of an IPA can contrast beautifully with the cheesy, savory flavors of the meatloaf.
- Sparkling water with lemon: For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with a twist of lemon offers a refreshing contrast.
Cultural Significance and Origins
Philly cheesesteaks are an iconic American dish, originating from Philadelphia in the 1930s. Traditionally made with thinly sliced beef, sautéed onions, and melted cheese (often provolone or Cheez Whiz), the sandwich has grown in popularity across the United States and even internationally. This Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf recipe is a modern twist on the classic, combining the flavors with the comfort and convenience of meatloaf. It’s a perfect fusion for those who love experimenting with comfort food classics.
Fun Fact:
Did you know that the original Philly cheesesteak didn’t include peppers or mushrooms? These were later additions that gained popularity outside of Philadelphia.
Health and Nutritional Insights
Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf, while delicious and indulgent, can also be tailored to fit different dietary needs.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
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Calories: 400-450 kcal
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Protein: 30-35g
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Fat: 25-30g
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Carbohydrates: 15-20g
Health Tips
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Lower calorie option: To reduce the calorie count, you can use lean ground beef or a mix of beef and ground turkey.
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Increase fiber: Add more vegetables, such as spinach or zucchini, to the filling for an extra boost of fiber.
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Dairy-free option: If you’re lactose intolerant or following a dairy-free diet, swap the provolone for a plant-based cheese alternative.
Storage and Leftovers
Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf is not only delicious fresh out of the oven but also as leftovers.
How to Store
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In the fridge: Place the meatloaf in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
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In the freezer: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
How to Reheat
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat slices for about 15 minutes, or until heated through.
- Microwave: For a quicker option, reheat slices in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, though this may result in a slightly less crispy texture.
User Testimonials
“I made this Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf for a family gathering, and it was a hit! Everyone loved the gooey cheese filling and the rich flavors. It was like having a cheesesteak in every bite but even more satisfying.” – Jessica T.
“I’ve been a fan of meatloaf for years, but this Philly Cheesesteak version takes it to another level. The combination of cheese, peppers, and onions inside the meatloaf is brilliant!” – Mike S.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Just be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. If you’re freezing it, assemble the meatloaf, wrap it in plastic and foil, and freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight.
What type of cheese is best for this recipe?
Provolone is the most traditional cheese for Philly cheesesteak, as it melts smoothly and offers a mild flavor. However, if you’re a fan of more intense flavors, try using sharp cheddar or even a spicy pepper jack.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey can be substituted for a lighter version of this recipe. Just keep in mind that turkey is leaner than beef, so you may need to add a little more moisture (like an extra egg or splash of milk) to prevent the meatloaf from drying out.
How do I prevent my meatloaf from falling apart?
The key to a cohesive meatloaf is using the right ratio of binders (eggs and breadcrumbs). Be careful not to overmix the meat mixture, as this can cause the meatloaf to become dense and more likely to fall apart. Letting the meatloaf rest after baking also helps keep it together when sliced.
Conclusion
Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf offers a delicious fusion of two classic comfort foods—cheesesteak and meatloaf. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone. By following the tips and variations in this guide, you can tailor the recipe to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Plus, with its simple preparation and rewarding flavors, this dish is destined to become a regular part of your meal rotation.
