INTRODUCTION
A Brief History: How the Philly Cheesesteak Inspired This Meatloaf
The Philly cheesesteak, originating from Philadelphia in the early 20th century, has become a symbol of American culinary tradition. Traditionally made with thinly sliced beef, melted cheese, and sautéed onions on a hoagie roll, this sandwich inspired a myriad of variations. The idea of transforming this sandwich into a meatloaf combines the best of both worlds—comfort and flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf recipe appeals to anyone who enjoys hearty, satisfying meals. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd, and the leftovers are even better, transforming into delicious sandwiches or reheating as is.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 8 ounces mushrooms, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, chopped
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 cup cheese whiz (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (use gluten-free for a gluten-free option)
- 4 ounces provolone (optional)
- 8 slices provolone cheese
Directions:
Prepare the Vegetables:
- Heat the oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and mushrooms. Cook until tender, about 7-10 minutes.
- Add the chopped garlic and cook for an additional minute, then remove from heat.
Mix the Meatloaf:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, salt, pepper, cheese whiz (if using), Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, eggs, and panko breadcrumbs.
- Incorporate the cooked vegetable mixture into the meat mixture until well combined.
Form and Bake the Meatloaf:
- On a baking sheet, shape half of the meat mixture into a loaf.
- Place the solid piece of provolone cheese (if using) in the center of the loaf.
- Top with the remaining meat mixture, sealing the edges well and shaping the loaf as desired.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 50-60 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through.
Add the Cheese Topping:
- Spread the 8 slices of provolone cheese over the top of the meatloaf.
- Return to the oven and broil for 2-4 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and is bubbly.
Serve:
- Let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve hot and enjoy!
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 60-65 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Tips for the Perfect Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf
Mixing Tips
Mix the ingredients gently to avoid a tough meatloaf. Overmixing can result in a dense texture, so handle the meat mixture as little as possible.
Choosing the Right Meat
Using a blend of high-fat ground beef (80/20 or 85/15) ensures your meatloaf stays juicy. Leaner meat may result in a dry loaf, so it’s best to stick to higher fat content for this recipe.
Alternative Cooking Methods
For a different texture, consider shaping the meatloaf on a baking sheet instead of using a loaf pan. This method allows the fat to render out more evenly and creates a delicious crust.
Variations and Substitutions
Cheese Variations
While Provolone is the classic choice, you can experiment with other cheeses. Try American cheese for a creamier texture or Cheez Whiz for a more authentic Philly experience.
Meat Alternatives
For a leaner option, substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef. Keep in mind that these meats are leaner, so you may need to add a bit of extra fat, such as olive oil or additional butter, to keep the meatloaf moist.
Add-Ons
Feel free to get creative by adding crispy bacon bits, hot peppers, or even a layer of sautéed onions and peppers inside the meatloaf. These additions can elevate the flavor and give the dish a unique twist.
How to Store and Reheat Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf
Storing Leftovers
Properly storing your Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf ensures it stays fresh and delicious for future meals. Once the meatloaf has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. If you plan to eat it within a few days, store it in the refrigerator where it will keep for up to 4 days. For longer storage, place the wrapped meatloaf in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months. This method keeps the meatloaf moist and flavorful, making reheating a breeze.
Reheating Tips
When reheating your Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf, it’s important to maintain its moisture and avoid drying it out. For the best results, reheat individual slices in the microwave by covering them with a damp paper towel and microwaving in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat the entire loaf in the oven by covering it with foil and baking at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes. Adding a splash of beef broth before reheating in the oven can help retain moisture and enhance the flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Pairing Ideas
Pairing your Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf with the right side dishes can elevate your meal to a whole new level. Some classic options include creamy mashed potatoes, roasted green beans, or a crisp garden salad. These sides complement the rich, savory flavors of the meatloaf without overpowering it.
Transforming Leftovers
Leftovers from your Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf can easily be transformed into a delicious sandwich. Simply slice the cold meatloaf and place it on a hoagie roll with additional Provolone cheese, sautéed onions, and peppers. Toast the sandwich until the cheese melts and enjoy a Philly cheesesteak experience all over again!
FAQs Section
What is the best type of cheese for Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf?
The best cheese for Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf is typically Provolone, as it melts beautifully and has a mild flavor that complements the other ingredients. However, you can also experiment with American cheese for a creamier texture or Cheez Whiz for an authentic Philly touch. Each cheese offers a slightly different flavor profile, so feel free to choose based on your preference.
Can I make Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf with ground turkey?
Yes, you can make Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf with ground turkey as a leaner alternative to beef. Ground turkey has a milder flavor and less fat, so consider adding a little olive oil or additional butter to the mixture to keep the meatloaf moist. You can also enhance the flavor with extra Worcestershire sauce or by incorporating more seasonings.
How do I prevent my meatloaf from being too dry?
To prevent your Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf from being too dry, use a blend of higher-fat ground beef (80/20 or 85/15) or add some ground pork for extra moisture. Avoid overmixing the ingredients, as this can make the meatloaf dense and tough. Additionally, incorporating ingredients like sautéed vegetables, eggs, and breadcrumbs helps retain moisture. When reheating, consider adding a splash of beef broth or covering the meatloaf with foil to prevent drying out.
Conclusion
The Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf is a unique and flavorful dish that combines the best of two comfort food favorites. Whether you’re enjoying it fresh out of the oven or transforming leftovers into a tasty sandwich, this meatloaf is sure to become a household favorite. With its rich, savory flavors and easy-to-follow recipe, there’s no reason not to give it a try. Experiment with different cheeses, meats, and add-ons to make it your own. Happy cooking!
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Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6-8 1x
Description
A delicious fusion of Philly cheesesteak flavors and classic meatloaf, this recipe offers a savory, cheesy, and comforting meal perfect for dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 8 ounces mushrooms, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, chopped
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 cup cheese whiz (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (use gluten-free for a gluten-free option)
- 4 ounces provolone (optional)
- 8 slices provolone cheese
Instructions
- Heat oil in a pan and sauté diced onion, bell pepper, and mushrooms until tender. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- In a large bowl, mix ground beef, salt, pepper, cheese whiz, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, eggs, and breadcrumbs.
- Add the sautéed vegetables to the meat mixture and combine well.
- On a baking sheet, shape half of the meat mixture into a loaf, place provolone cheese in the center, and top with the remaining meat mixture, sealing the edges.
- Bake at 350°F (180°C) for 50-60 minutes.
- Top with slices of provolone cheese and broil for 2-4 minutes until melted and bubbly.
- Let the meatloaf rest before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs.
- Cheese whiz is optional but adds an extra layer of cheesy flavor.
- You can adjust the seasoning and ingredients to your taste
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60-65 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 450-500 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 120mg