Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf, A Hearty Dinner Everyone Will Love
Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf is a fun twist on two classic favorites rolled into one dish. It combines the rich, juicy flavors of beef meatloaf with the melty goodness of cheddar…
By Ava
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Reading time: 6 min
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Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf is a fun twist on two classic favorites rolled into one dish. It combines the rich, juicy flavors of beef meatloaf with the melty goodness of cheddar cheese, sautéed onions, and green peppers – just like a Philly cheesesteak sandwich but in a comforting meatloaf form. The combination of tender meat and flavorful veggies makes it a hearty and satisfying meal for the whole family.
I love making this meatloaf when I want something that feels like a special dinner but is actually pretty simple to prepare. The cheese melts right inside the meat, giving every bite a cheesy surprise, and the sautéed veggies add just the right touch of sweetness and crunch. It’s always a hit in my house, and I find that leftovers taste just as good warmed up the next day.
My favorite way to serve Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf is with a side of mashed potatoes or a simple green salad. It’s perfect for casual dinners or even when friends drop by because it’s filling and easy to slice and serve. If you’re a fan of Philly cheesesteaks or classic meatloaf, this recipe will quickly become one you make again and again.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground beef: I recommend 80/20 for the right mix of flavor and moisture. Leaner beef can dry out the meatloaf, while fattier blends make it juicier but heavier. Ground turkey is an option but expect a different texture.
Bell peppers and onions: Sautéed until soft, these bring the classic cheesesteak flavor. If you don’t have green peppers, red or yellow peppers work well and add sweetness.
Cheese: Provolone is ideal for that authentic cheesesteak taste, but you can blend it with mozzarella or use just cheddar if you prefer. Cheddar on top adds a nice sharp finish.
Breadcrumbs and milk: These keep the meatloaf tender. If you want gluten-free, substitute breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or oats.
How Do You Get the Meatloaf Tender and Avoid It Being Dry?
To keep the meatloaf juicy and tender, mix your ingredients gently to avoid compacting the meat. Overworking the mixture can make the loaf dense.
- Sauté the veggies first to reduce moisture inside the loaf.
- Use enough binder like eggs and milk to hold everything together without drying it out.
- Bake at 350°F and check the internal temperature; removing it at 160°F ensures it’s fully cooked but still moist.
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before cutting; this lets juices redistribute so slices don’t fall apart.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Loaf pan or rimmed baking sheet – shapes the meatloaf evenly and catches any drips.
- Large mixing bowl – perfect for combining all the ingredients without making a mess.
- Sauté pan – for cooking onions, peppers, and garlic to bring out their sweetness.
- Measuring cups and spoons – help you get the seasoning and liquids just right.
- Meat thermometer – ensures your meatloaf reaches a safe 160°F for perfect doneness.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken to lighten the dish while keeping it tasty.
- Add sliced mushrooms with the peppers and onions for extra earthiness and moisture.
- Try mixing in diced jalapeños for some heat if you like a spicy kick.
- Replace provolone with mozzarella or pepper jack cheese for a different cheese flavor.
Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
- 1 cup diced green bell peppers
- 1 cup diced onions
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded provolone cheese (or a mix of provolone and cheddar)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: 1 tsp smoked paprika or chili flakes for added flavor
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 55–60 minutes to bake. Plus, you’ll want to let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Altogether, plan for roughly 1 hour and 25 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get Ready and Sauté the Veggies:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper. Next, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and green bell peppers and sauté them until they’re softened and a little caramelized, about 5 to 7 minutes. In the last minute, toss in the minced garlic and cook until it smells fragrant. Take the skillet off the heat and let the veggies cool a bit.
2. Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, dried Italian seasoning, and the optional smoked paprika or chili flakes if you like a bit of heat. Stir gently but thoroughly to mix everything together without overworking the meat. Add the sautéed veggies and half of the shredded provolone cheese, mixing in evenly.
3. Form and Bake the Meatloaf:
Place the mixture into your prepared loaf pan or shape it by hand on a baking sheet to form a loaf. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
4. Add Cheese and Finish Baking:
After 45 minutes, take the meatloaf out and sprinkle the remaining provolone cheese and cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Put the meatloaf back in the oven and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the internal temperature reads 160°F (71°C).
5. Rest, Slice, and Serve:
Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes so the juices settle. Slice it up and sprinkle with chopped green onions before serving. It pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad for a hearty, comforting meal.
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Meatloaf?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to fully thaw the ground beef in the fridge overnight before using. This helps the meat mix evenly and cook properly.
How Do I Store Leftover Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through to keep it moist and delicious.
Can I Make This Meatloaf Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meat mixture and shape it into a loaf, then refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just adjust the baking time slightly if baking straight from cold.
What Can I Serve with Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf?
This meatloaf is great with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a crisp green salad. Any side that soaks up the cheesy juices will complement it perfectly!