This Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf is a fun twist on a classic! It blends ground beef with peppers, onions, and melty cheese all in one hearty loaf.
Who knew meatloaf could taste like a cheesesteak? I love serving it with a side of mashed potatoes. It’s comfort food at its best—easy and super yummy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for that perfect balance of flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey or chicken can work, though they may not be as juicy.
Peppers & Onions: Green bell peppers are traditional, but you could switch them for red, yellow, or even roasted peppers for a sweeter flavor. For onions, yellow or white work great too.
Cheese: Mozzarella gives great meltiness. I use provolone on top for that classic cheesesteak taste. If you’re dairy-free, try vegan cheese slices, or skip the cheese entirely for a lower-calorie option.
Breadcrumbs: Italian seasoned breadcrumbs add flavor, but you can use plain breadcrumbs or even crushed crackers if you’re in a pinch. Gluten-free breadcrumbs are a substitute if needed.
Eggs: Eggs help bind everything together. You can replace each egg with a flaxseed meal (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water) if you’re vegan.
What’s the Best Way to Sauté Peppers and Onions for Flavor?
Sautéing peppers and onions is key to building flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add diced onions first. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften.
- Add the diced bell peppers to the pan. Stir and cook for another 5-7 minutes, until both are golden and caramelized.
- Add garlic last to avoid burning, cooking for just 1 minute until fragrant. Then let it cool slightly before mixing it into your meatloaf.
Cooking them well brings out their natural sweetness, which makes a huge difference in taste!
How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 2 lbs ground beef (preferably 80/20)
- 1 cup diced green bell pepper
- 1 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus 4-6 slices of provolone cheese)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
- Fresh chopped chives or green onion for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf requires about 15-20 minutes of prep time and 45-55 minutes of baking time. You’ll want to allow an extra 10 minutes for resting after baking. Overall, plan for about 1.5 hours to get it ready to serve.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Make sure to lightly grease a baking pan or you can line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a skillet, heat the olive or vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and green bell peppers. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they become softened and slightly caramelized. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Once done, remove from heat and let them cool slightly.
3. Mix the Meatloaf Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef with the sautéed pepper and onion mixture. Next, add the shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, and dried oregano. Mix everything together thoroughly, but do so gently to avoid overworking the meat.
4. Form the Meatloaf:
Divide the meat mixture in half. Press one half down into your prepared baking pan, forming a rectangle shape that is about 1.5 to 2 inches thick.
5. Add the Cheese Layer:
Evenly lay the slices of provolone cheese over the first meat layer, covering it well.
6. Top with More Meat:
Now, add the remaining half of the meat mixture on top of the cheese. Shape it into a loaf while sealing the edges to keep that yummy cheese inside.
7. Bake the Meatloaf:
Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
8. Make it Extra Cheesy:
If you love cheese on top, you can add a few more slices of provolone during the last 5 minutes of baking for a melty, cheesy finish!
9. Rest Before Slicing:
Once done, take the meatloaf out and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This helps the juices settle, making it easier to slice.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the meatloaf and garnish with fresh chopped chives or green onions if you like. Serve warm with mashed potatoes or your favorite sides for a delicious comforting meal!
Enjoy this juicy, cheesy Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf, and savor the delightful blend of flavors in every bite!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef! Just keep in mind that turkey can be leaner, so adding a bit of extra moisture like an additional egg or some extra cheese can help keep the meatloaf moist.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat slices in the microwave or oven until warmed through. For best results, cover with foil if using the oven to prevent drying out.
Can I Freeze This Meatloaf?
Absolutely! Once it’s completely cooled, wrap the meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What Can I Serve with Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf?
This meatloaf pairs wonderfully with sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. For a classic twist, serve it alongside a side of fries or a hearty bun for a cheesesteak-inspired meal!
