Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf Recipe

There’s something magical about taking a beloved classic and giving it a delicious twist. Enter the Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf – a hearty, flavorful dish that combines the savory satisfaction of a cheesesteak with the comforting nostalgia of meatloaf.

I first whipped up this recipe on a chilly evening when a craving for cheesesteak struck, but I wanted something a bit more homey. This dish quickly became a family favorite, and the way the gooey cheese melts into the tender meat is simply irresistible.

Why You'll Love This Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf

Get ready to fall head over heels for this new comfort food classic. Whether you're a die-hard cheesesteak fan or simply looking to elevate your meatloaf game, this recipe delivers on all fronts.

1. Packed with Flavor:
This meatloaf is infused with the bold, beefy taste of ground beef and seasoned to mimic the authentic Philly cheesesteak. Add caramelized onions, sautéed bell peppers, and gooey provolone cheese, and you’ve got a taste explosion in every bite.

2. Perfect for Busy Nights:
Despite its gourmet vibes, this meatloaf is easy to prepare. With simple steps and common ingredients, you can have it prepped and baking in under 20 minutes.

3. Kid-Approved:
Even picky eaters love this one. The cheesy surprise inside and the familiar flavors make it a hit with all ages.

4. Leftovers That Shine:
This meatloaf reheats beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep or next-day lunches.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf lies in its thoughtful combination of ingredients, each chosen to recreate the iconic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak.

Ground Beef:
Opt for 80/20 ground beef for a moist and flavorful meatloaf. The fat content keeps the loaf juicy without becoming greasy.

Breadcrumbs and Eggs:
These classic meatloaf binders hold everything together while adding a soft texture. Use Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs for an extra layer of flavor.

Onions and Bell Peppers:
No Philly cheesesteak is complete without these sautéed vegetables. Dice them finely so they blend seamlessly into the meat mixture.

Provolone Cheese:
The star of the show! Slices of provolone are layered inside the meatloaf and melted on top for that authentic cheesesteak experience. For an extra cheesy twist, mix shredded provolone into the meat mixture.

Worcestershire Sauce:
This secret ingredient adds depth and a slightly smoky, umami flavor. A tablespoon is all you need for a big flavor boost.

Special Equipment:
A loaf pan ensures even cooking, but you can also free-form the loaf on a baking sheet if you prefer a crustier exterior.

How To Make This Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf

Creating this decadent meatloaf is straightforward and satisfying. Let’s break it down step by step.

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a loaf pan with parchment paper for easy removal. Alternatively, lightly grease the pan or prepare a baking sheet.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a skillet over medium heat, sauté diced onions and bell peppers in a little olive oil until softened and slightly caramelized, about 5 minutes. Let them cool slightly before adding to the meat mixture.

Step 3: Mix the Meatloaf Base
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and the cooled onions and peppers. Mix gently to avoid overworking the meat, which can lead to a dense loaf.

Step 4: Assemble the Meatloaf
Press half of the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan, creating a shallow cavity. Lay provolone cheese slices inside, then top with the remaining meat mixture. Seal the edges to encase the cheese completely.

Step 5: Bake and Top with Cheese
Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Remove from the oven and add a layer of provolone slices on top. Return to the oven for 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Rest and Slice
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This ensures the juices redistribute, keeping the loaf moist and flavorful.

Storage Options

This Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf is just as delightful the next day, making it perfect for leftovers.

Refrigeration:
Store slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Wrap individual slices for easy reheating.

Freezing:
To freeze, wrap the entire loaf tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or store slices in freezer-safe bags. It will keep for up to 3 months.

Reheating:
Reheat slices in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or warm in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes. Cover with foil to prevent drying out.

Variations and Substitutions

The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. Here are some ways to make it your own:

1. Use Ground Turkey or Chicken:
For a lighter version, substitute the beef with ground turkey or chicken. Add a splash of olive oil to maintain moisture.

2. Cheese Alternatives:
Swap provolone for mozzarella, cheddar, or American cheese to match your taste preferences.

3. Low-Carb Option:
Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds for a keto-friendly meatloaf.

4. Veggie Boost:
Add finely chopped mushrooms or zucchini to the meat mixture for added moisture and nutrition.

5. Gluten-Free Twist:
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats in place of traditional breadcrumbs.

Experimenting with flavors and ingredients ensures this recipe remains a staple in your kitchen, customized to your preferences.

Whether you're a Philly cheesesteak enthusiast or just looking to try a fun twist on classic meatloaf, this recipe promises to deliver flavor and comfort in every bite. Serve it alongside mashed potatoes or a crisp green salad for a complete meal that’s bound to become a household favorite.

Let me know how it turns out – happy cooking!

Print