Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf Recipe
If you’ve ever dreamed of combining the bold flavors of a classic sandwich into a comforting, hearty dish, then this Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf is exactly what you need in your kitchen. This recipe takes that iconic Philly cheesesteak combo of tender beef, sautéed onions and peppers, and melty provolone cheese, and transforms it into a sumptuous meatloaf that’s juicy, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or craving a special weeknight dinner, this Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf brings all the familiar tastes in one unforgettable bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward and easy to find, but each plays a crucial role in crafting that perfect harmony of taste, texture, and aroma in your Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf. From the savory ground beef to the sharp provolone, every element adds something special.
- 2 pounds ground beef (preferably 80/20 blend): The foundation of your meatloaf, offering the right balance of fat for juicy results.
- 1 cup chopped onion: Adds sweetness and depth once sautéed gently.
- 1 cup chopped bell pepper (any color): Brings a touch of color and slight crunch to brighten the flavors.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: For that irresistible aromatic punch that elevates the savory notes.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds mild heat and complexity.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Infuses herbs for a subtle earthy undertone.
- 2 large eggs: Acts as a binder to hold your meatloaf together beautifully.
- 1 cup breadcrumbs: Keeps the meatloaf tender by absorbing moisture without making it dense.
- 1 cup shredded provolone cheese (1/2 cup for the mixture, 1/2 cup for topping): Melts perfectly creating gooey pockets throughout and a golden, cheesy crust on top.
- 1/2 cup steak sauce (plus more for topping): Brings savory, tangy richness that’s true to Philly cheesesteak flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Enhances umami and adds a subtle complexity.
How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Start by heating a little oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and bell pepper until they soften and become sweet, about five minutes. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to unlock that fragrant garlic aroma. Once done, remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly; this prevents cooking the eggs and beef prematurely when mixed.
Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine your ground beef with the cooled veggies, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, eggs, breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup of shredded provolone cheese, steak sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. Gently mix everything together just until combined. Overmixing can make the meatloaf tough, so handle the ingredients with care for the best texture.
Step 3: Shape and Prepare for Baking
Transfer the mixture into a loaf pan, shaping it neatly into a loaf form. To boost flavor and add a signature finishing touch, spread a thin layer of steak sauce on top and sprinkle the remaining provolone over it. This will melt into a delicious, bubbly crust as the meatloaf bakes.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Pop your Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf into an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C). Bake for roughly one hour, or until the internal temperature hits 160°F (70°C). This ensures it’s cooked all the way through while staying moist and tender. When it’s ready, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes — this resting step is key for juicy slices that hold their shape.
How to Serve Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or a handful of thinly sliced green onions adds a fresh contrast to the richness of this meatloaf. If you want a bit of extra gooeyness, drizzle more steak sauce on top or serve with a side of tangy pickles to replicate that classic cheesesteak vibe.
Side Dishes
This meatloaf pairs beautifully with crispy oven-roasted potatoes, a simple green salad, or creamy mashed potatoes that soak up every delicious bite. For a more indulgent meal, caramelized onions or sautéed mushrooms complement the dish perfectly, mirroring the original Philly cheesesteak’s flavor profile.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf sliced thick and stacked on toasted sandwich rolls with extra provolone and peppers for an open-faced “meatloaf sandwich” experience. It also works wonderfully chopped up to top nachos or baked into stuffed peppers for an unexpected yet amazing variation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After letting the meatloaf cool completely, store leftovers tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to 3 days, giving you plenty of chances to savor every last bit.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf to enjoy later. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or a resealable freezer bag. It will stay good for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to maintain its juicy texture.
Reheating
For reheating, the oven is best to preserve moisture and flavor — cover the meatloaf loosely with foil and warm at 300°F (150°C) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave slices with a damp paper towel over them to keep moisture, but be careful not to overcook.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works well for a leaner twist, though the flavor and juiciness will be a bit milder. Adding a bit of extra seasoning or a splash of oil can help keep it flavorful and moist.
Is it important to let the meatloaf rest before slicing?
Yes, resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meatloaf. Cutting into it too soon results in a loss of moisture and crumblier slices. Ten minutes of resting is ideal for a juicy, presentable meal.
Can I add cheese inside the meatloaf instead of just on top?
Definitely! The recipe already includes provolone cheese inside the mixture, but you can also sneak in chunks or a cheese layer in the middle for a melty, cheesy surprise in every slice.
What can I substitute if I don’t have steak sauce?
If you’re out of steak sauce, try a mix of ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and a dash of soy sauce or balsamic vinegar to replicate its tangy, savory profile. Adjust amounts to taste to get just the right balance.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly before baking?
Yes! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture, shape it, and freeze it raw in the loaf pan wrapped well. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and then proceed with baking as usual.
Final Thoughts
This Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf is an absolute joy to make and even more delightful to devour. It captures all the soul-soothing vibes of a cheesesteak sandwich, while giving you the comfort of a classic meatloaf. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own staple for family dinners or casual get-togethers. Happy cooking, and enjoy every melty, flavorful bite!
Print
Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 to 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Salt
Description
A delicious twist on classic meatloaf, the Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf features ground beef combined with sautéed onions, bell peppers, and provolone cheese, all seasoned with steak sauce and Italian herbs. Topped with extra provolone and baked to perfection, this savory dish brings the beloved flavors of a Philly cheesesteak into a comforting, hearty meatloaf.
Ingredients
Meatloaf Mixture
- 2 pounds ground beef (preferably 80/20 blend)
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 1 cup chopped bell pepper (any color)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup shredded provolone cheese
- 1/2 cup steak sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Topping
- 1/2 cup shredded provolone cheese
- Additional steak sauce for spreading (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking the meatloaf evenly.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a skillet over medium heat, add a small amount of oil and sauté the chopped onion and bell pepper until they become soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly to prevent cooking the eggs when mixing.
- Mix Meatloaf Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, sautéed vegetables, salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, eggs, breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup provolone cheese, steak sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix gently until all ingredients are just combined; avoid overmixing to maintain a tender texture.
- Shape and Prepare for Baking: Transfer the meat mixture into a loaf pan, shaping it neatly into a loaf. If you like, spread a thin layer of steak sauce on top and sprinkle with the remaining 1/2 cup of provolone cheese to create a flavorful crust.
- Bake: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C), ensuring the meatloaf is fully cooked but still juicy.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes, allowing juices to redistribute. Slice and serve warm, optionally accompanied by extra steak sauce for added flavor.
Notes
- Use an 80/20 beef blend for the best balance of flavor and moisture.
- Letting the sautéed vegetables cool before mixing prevents the eggs from cooking prematurely.
- Do not overmix the meat mixture to keep the loaf tender and moist.
- Feel free to customize with different bell pepper colors for visual appeal and taste.
- Resting the meatloaf after baking is important for easier slicing and juicier meat.
- Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure food safety.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 1/8th of loaf)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf, meatloaf with cheese, ground beef meatloaf, comfort food, American meatloaf recipe
