Cheesy Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf Recipe

Irresistible Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf Recipe for Dinner Magic

A classic Philly cheesesteak inspires this mouthwatering meatloaf that blends Philadelphia’s iconic sandwich with comfort food magic.

Savory beef meets melted provolone in a hearty dish perfect for weekend dinners.

Layers of thinly sliced bell peppers and caramelized onions add signature flavor to every tender bite.

Lean ground beef creates a juicy foundation that captures the essence of the beloved street food.

Crispy edges and a molten cheese center make this recipe irresistible for meat lovers.

Sharp provolone and mild seasonings ensure each slice delivers maximum deliciousness.

Warm up your kitchen and treat yourself to a meal that celebrates culinary creativity.

Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf That Impresses

  • Savor Comfort Food Reinvented: Transform the classic Philly cheesesteak into a hearty meatloaf that brings familiar flavors together in a completely new, delicious format.
  • Customize with Ease: Swap out bell peppers for different vegetables or experiment with cheese varieties to make this recipe uniquely yours while keeping the core taste profile intact.
  • Family Dinner Champion: Packed with protein and loaded with cheesy goodness, this meatloaf guarantees clean plates and happy faces around the dinner table, appealing to both kids and adults.
  • Minimal Prep, Maximum Flavor: Combines simple ingredients and straightforward cooking techniques to deliver a restaurant-quality meal without complicated culinary skills or extensive kitchen time.

Ingredients in Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf

Meat Base:
  • Ground Beef: A hearty protein that forms the foundation of this meatloaf with rich flavor.
Vegetables:
  • Bell Peppers, Onions: Sauteed vegetables that add sweetness and depth to the meatloaf's taste profile.
Binding Ingredients:
  • Breadcrumbs, Egg: Essential components that help hold the meatloaf together and provide structure.
Seasoning and Flavor Enhancers:
  • Worcestershire Sauce, Garlic Powder, Salt, Pepper: Seasonings that boost the overall taste and create a savory profile.
Cheese and Topping:
  • Shredded Cheese: Adds a creamy, melty layer of flavor throughout the meatloaf.
  • Ketchup: Provides a tangy and slightly sweet finishing touch to the top of the meatloaf.

How to Bake Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Crank your oven to a toasty 375F (190C) and get ready for a flavor explosion.

Step 2: Sizzle the Veggies

Grab a skillet and toss in your bell peppers and onions.

Cook them until they’re soft and slightly golden, releasing their sweet aromas. Let them cool down for a moment.

Step 3: Mix the Meaty Magic

In a spacious mixing bowl, combine:
  • Ground beef
  • Breadcrumbs
  • Egg
  • Sauteed vegetables
  • Worcestershire sauce
  • Garlic powder
  • Salt
  • Pepper

Dive in with your hands and blend everything until it’s perfectly mixed.

Step 4: Create the Cheesy Layer

Spread half the meat mixture into a loaf pan.

Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheese across the meat. Top it with the remaining meat mixture, creating a hidden cheese center.

Step 5: Add the Flavor Splash

Spread a layer of ketchup on top of the meatloaf to give it a tangy kick.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Slide the meatloaf into the preheated oven.

Bake for 50-60 minutes until it reaches an internal temperature of 160F.

Step 7: Rest and Slice

Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes.

This helps it set and makes slicing a breeze. Serve up your Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf and watch everyone’s eyes light up!

Tips to Elevate Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf

  • Enhance flavor by using a mix of ground beef and ground pork for a richer taste profile.
  • Experiment with different cheese varieties like provolone or pepper jack to customize the meatloaf's taste.
  • Prevent dryness by avoiding overmixing the meat mixture and using fresh, high-quality ground beef.
  • Add extra moisture by incorporating a splash of beef broth or milk into the meat mixture.
  • Create a gluten-free version by substituting breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or crushed pork rinds.

Flavor Swaps for Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf

  • Lean Protein Version: Replace ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lower-fat alternative that maintains the classic Philly cheesesteak flavor profile.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Swap breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour to make the meatloaf suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
  • Vegetarian Transformation: Substitute ground meat with plant-based crumbles or finely chopped mushrooms mixed with lentils for a meat-free version that captures the essence of the original recipe.
  • Spicy Kick Variation: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the meat mixture for those who enjoy a more fiery take on the classic meatloaf.

What Complements Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf

  • Tailgate Party Centerpiece: Slice the meatloaf into thick portions and serve on a rustic wooden board surrounded by crispy potato wedges and pickled peppers for a game day crowd-pleaser.
  • Sandwich Style Serving: Cut the meatloaf into hearty slices and nestle between toasted hoagie rolls with extra melted provolone cheese and caramelized onions for a classic Philly-inspired sandwich experience.
  • Comfort Meal Platter: Present the meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted green beans, and a drizzle of beef gravy for a comforting family dinner that transforms the classic meatloaf into a gourmet meal.

Proper Storage for Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf

  • Refrigerate leftover meatloaf in an airtight container for 3-4 days to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
  • Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before storing to preserve moisture and prevent drying out.
  • Freeze meatloaf slices in freezer-safe containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months, ensuring complete sealing to prevent freezer burn.
  • Reheat refrigerated meatloaf in the oven at 350F for 15-20 minutes, covering with foil to retain moisture and prevent overcooking.
  • Microwave individual slices on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking temperature and adding a splash of broth to keep the meat juicy.
  • Thaw frozen meatloaf overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to ensure even warming and preserve texture.

FAQs

  • Can I use a different type of ground meat?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can work as alternatives to beef, but they may result in a slightly different texture and flavor profile.

  • How do I know the meatloaf is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 160F, which ensures the meat is safely cooked through.

  • Is it necessary to saute the vegetables first?

Sauteing bell peppers and onions helps release their flavors and removes excess moisture, which prevents the meatloaf from becoming soggy.

  • Can I prepare this meatloaf ahead of time?

You can assemble the meatloaf earlier in the day and refrigerate it, then bake it when you’re ready to eat. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s cold from the refrigerator.

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Cheesy Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf Recipe

Cheesy Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf Recipe


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4.7 from 32 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Succulent Philly cheesesteak meatloaf combines classic sandwich flavors in a hearty dinner centerpiece. Melted provolone and peppers create a delicious crossover between comfort food and Philadelphia’s iconic sandwich.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Protein Ingredients:

  • 1 pound (1 lb) ground beef

Cheese Ingredients:

  • 1 cup shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese

Vegetable and Binding Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
  • 1/2 cup chopped onion
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1/4 cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven at 375F (190C) and position the rack in the center.
  2. Sauté chopped bell peppers and onions in a skillet until they become translucent and tender, approximately 5-7 minutes. Allow the vegetables to cool slightly.
  3. Combine ground beef with breadcrumbs, egg, cooled sautéed vegetables, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl. Gently mix until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
  4. Transfer half of the meat mixture into a loaf pan, creating an even base layer. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese across the meat layer.
  5. Cover the cheese layer with the remaining meat mixture, ensuring a smooth and compact surface.
  6. Spread a thin layer of ketchup over the top of the meatloaf to enhance flavor and create a slightly caramelized crust.
  7. Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160F.
  8. Remove from the oven and let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes, allowing the juices to redistribute and making slicing easier.

Notes

  • Customize the cheese by swapping provolone with mozzarella or Swiss for different flavor profiles.
  • Boost protein content by adding a small amount of finely chopped mushrooms to the meat mixture.
  • Make it gluten-free by using almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of traditional breadcrumbs.
  • Reduce fat by selecting lean ground beef (90/10) and draining excess grease after sautéing vegetables.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 395 kcal
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Sodium: 780 mg
  • Fat: 27 g
  • Saturated Fat: 12 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
  • Trans Fat: 1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 18 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 28 g
  • Cholesterol: 95 mg
Jack Monroe

Jack Monroe

Founder & Recipe Innovator

Expertise

Pacific Northwest cuisine, Single-serving recipe development, Sustainable sourcing and cooking, Modern comfort food​

Education

Brightwater
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Focus: Sustainable cooking, seasonal ingredients, and food systems education


Jack grew up with a fishing rod in one hand and a cast-iron skillet in the other. After graduating from Brightwater: A Center for the Study of Food, he set out to prove that cooking for one could still taste like a feast.
Jack believes that food should feel real: fresh, fearless, and a little wild, just like the rivers he grew up around. For Jack, every single dish is a small adventure, and the best ones are the ones you can cook with heart, not hassle.

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