Stuffed Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf

Have you ever thought about how you can elevate a classic comfort food into a stunning main dish? If you’re a fan of delicious, hearty meals, Stuffed Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf might just be your next favorite recipe. This dish combines the savory flavors of a traditional Philly cheesesteak with the hearty texture of meatloaf, creating a mouthwatering experience that will impress your family or guests. With a blend of ground beef, sautéed vegetables, and layers of gooey cheese, it’s a culinary delight that redefines comfort food. In this post, we’ll guide you through the steps to create this delectable dish, including tips, variations, and everything you need to know to make it a hit in your kitchen.

Ingredients Needed

1 ½ pounds ground beef: The star of the show beef brings a rich flavor and filling protein content.
1 large onion (finely chopped): Adds sweetness and depth, enhancing the overall flavor.
1 green bell pepper (finely chopped): Offers a fresh crunch and a pop of color.
½ cup mushrooms (chopped): Provides umami and moisture, balancing the dish.
3 cloves garlic (minced): Brings aromatic flavors that elevate the entire recipe.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for sautéing the veggies, adding healthy fats.
½ cup whole milk: Adds moisture and richness to the meatloaf mixture.
1 cup breadcrumbs: Binds the mixture together and provides texture.
1 large egg: Acts as a binder for the meatloaf, ensuring it holds its shape.
½ teaspoon salt: Essential for flavor enhancement.
1 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a little heat and depth.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Boosts the garlic flavor profile.
1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the sweet onion notes.
½ teaspoon Adobo seasoning: A blend that adds complexity and zest.
3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce: Infuses a tangy, savory essence into the meat.
8 slices VERY thick-cut mozzarella cheese: The ultimate gooey layer in the center and on top, ensuring cheesy goodness in every bite.

Timing

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40-45 minutes
Total time: 60-65 minutes

Creating Stuffed Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf requires around 60 to 65 minutes from start to finish. That’s a reasonable timeframe considering the flavor explosion you’re about to enjoy!

How to Make Stuffed Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf

Preheat the oven:

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, lightly grease a loaf pan with nonstick spray, butter, or a drizzle of olive oil. This will prevent your delicious creation from sticking.

Cook the vegetables:

In a medium skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions, green bell pepper, mushrooms, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5–7 minutes, or until softened and fragrant. Once done, remove from heat and let them cool slightly. This step enhances the flavors of your vegetables while preventing them from making the meatloaf soggy.

Mix the meatloaf base:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, milk, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, Adobo seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, and your sautéed vegetables. Use clean hands to mix until just combined be careful not to overmix as this can lead to a tough meatloaf.

Assemble the first layer:

Place half of the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan, pressing it down gently into an even layer. This forms the base of your meatloaf.

Add the cheese filling:

Layer 4 very thick slices of mozzarella cheese evenly over the meat mixture. This will create a rich, cheesy center that everyone will love.

Top with the remaining mixture:

Spread the other half of the meat mixture over the cheese, pressing gently to seal the edges. This step ensures that the cheese stays hidden until cut, creating a fabulous surprise.

Bake:

Place your loaf pan in the oven and bake for 30 minutes. The meatloaf should start to firm up and brown.

Add the topping:

After 30 minutes, carefully remove the meatloaf from the oven. Place the remaining 4 slices of mozzarella cheese on top. If desired, sprinkle some chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Return it to the oven for another 10–15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. The slightly crispy edges of the cheese are deliciously tempting.

Rest and serve:

After baking, allow your meatloaf to rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. This is essential as it helps retain moisture when you cut it. Serve warm and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures in each bite.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 500
Total Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 140mg
Sodium: 680mg
Total Carbohydrates: 30g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 3g
Protein: 35g

These values can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes, but you get a detailed snapshot of the hearty goodness packed in each serving.

Healthier Alternatives For Stuffed Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf

While the original recipe is indulgent, making a few swaps can create a healthier version without sacrificing flavor. Consider these modifications:

Lean ground beef: Opt for lean ground turkey or chicken to reduce fat content while maintaining protein.
Whole wheat breadcrumbs: Swap traditional breadcrumbs for whole wheat varieties for added fiber.
Reduced-fat cheese: Use reduced-fat mozzarella to cut back on saturated fats.
Add vegetables: Increase the vegetable content by adding spinach or zucchini, enhancing the dish’s vitamins and minerals.
Less salt: Modify the added salt and Adobo seasoning to lower sodium levels without losing taste.

Serving Suggestions

Serving with sides: Serve your Stuffed Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf alongside a vibrant side salad, garlic bread, or mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.
Garnish: Top with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for added flavor and visual appeal.
Sauced-up: Drizzle a tangy sauce or ketchup on top for a burst of flavor. This will complement the dish beautifully.
Loaded options: For a fun twist, serve the meatloaf in a sandwich with extra toppings like sautéed onions or peppers, giving it that classic Philly cheesesteak vibe.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

• Overmixing the meat: This can lead to a dense meatloaf. Mix until just combined for a tender texture.
• Skipping the resting time: Cutting too soon will cause juices to spill out, resulting in a dry loaf. Always let it rest.
• Not preheating the oven: Ensure your oven is fully preheated; this affects cooking time and texture.
• Using too much moisture: While you want to add flavors, too much moisture can make the meatloaf soggy. Follow the ingredient proportions closely.

Storing Tips For Stuffed Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze: If you have extra, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, to freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheat: For the best texture, reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through. A splash of broth can help retain moisture when reheating.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Stuffed Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf is a game-changer for anyone looking to spice up their meal rotation. With its rich flavors, cheesy centerpiece, and easy preparation, it’s destined to become a family favorite. We encourage you to try making it this week and share your experiences or variations in the comments. Make sure to explore more delicious recipes and cooking tips here to keep your culinary journey exciting!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken is a great substitute and will make the recipe lighter.

Can I prepare the meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes, you can mix the ingredients and assemble it a day before. Just store it in the fridge before baking. Bake it fresh on the day you plan to serve it.

What can I use instead of mozzarella cheese?

You might consider provolone or gouda for a slightly different flavor and similar meltiness.

Is it possible to make a smaller batch?

Yes, simply halve the ingredients to create a smaller meatloaf. Adjust baking time as necessary to ensure it’s fully cooked.

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