Classic Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf

Forget boring meatloaf! Prepare yourself for a flavor explosion that’ll have you shouting “Philly Cheesesteak” from the rooftops— even if you’re still in your pajamas. This Classic Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf is a game-changer, a culinary masterpiece born from a late-night craving and a whole lot of delicious audacity.

This recipe isn’t just about meatloaf; it’s about a culinary adventure. Picture this juicy, savory loaf, bursting with the classic flavors of Philly, all nestled comfortably in your oven. Get ready to experience the ultimate comfort food, elevated to legendary status.

This Classic Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf boasts:

Ease of preparation: This recipe is surprisingly simple, perfect for a weeknight dinner.

A flavor profile that’s pure magic: A delightful blend of savory and slightly sweet.

Visual appeal: Prepare to be amazed by its golden-brown perfection.

Versatility: Serve it as a main course or slice it up for sandwiches.

Ingredients for Classic Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Ground Chicken Choose a lean ground chicken for a healthier option. About 1.5 pounds will do the trick.

Onion One large yellow onion, finely chopped. Because who doesn’t love a good onion?

Green Bell Pepper One green bell pepper, finely chopped. A touch of sweetness to balance things out.

Mushrooms A cup of sliced mushrooms, adding an earthy depth to the flavor.

Provolone Cheese Shredded provolone cheese—the star of the Philly Cheesesteak show. Aim for about 1.5 cups.

Breadcrumbs ½ cup of plain breadcrumbs to help bind everything together. Don’t use too much or it’ll get dry.

Egg Replacements Two flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tbsp water each). Perfectly replaces the need for eggs.

Worcestershire Sauce 1 tbsp of vegetarian Worcestershire sauce. This adds a unique savory flavor.

Beef Broth ½ cup beef broth for moisture and richness.

Garlic Powder 1 tsp of garlic powder because garlic is good in almost anything.

Onion Powder 1 tsp of onion powder (for added punch)

Dried Thyme ½ tsp of dried thyme, a classic herb that complements the meat beautifully.

Salt and Pepper To taste—season generously.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Classic Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preparing the Vegetables

Finely chop the onion and green bell pepper. Slice the mushrooms. Sauté the vegetables in a pan with a little oil until softened. This adds a ton of flavor!

Step 2: Mixing the Meatloaf Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, sautéed vegetables, breadcrumbs, flax eggs, Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Gently mix everything together until well combined, but try not to overmix.

Step 3: Adding the Cheese

Gently fold in about ¾ of the shredded provolone cheese. You want to keep some for topping!

Step 4: Shaping the Meatloaf

Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan (9×5 inches is perfect) and shape it into a loaf. Top with the remaining provolone cheese.

Step 5: Baking the Meatloaf

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for approximately 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.

Step 6: Resting and Serving

Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Slice the meatloaf and serve it with your favorite sides. A simple green salad or some roasted vegetables would be perfect. Transfer to plates and drizzle with a little extra Worcestershire sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

Tips for Classic Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf Success

Here are some extra tips to ensure your Classic Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf is a triumph:

Don’t overmix the meatloaf mixture. Overmixing can make the meatloaf tough.

For extra flavor, try adding a splash of your favorite steak sauce to the meatloaf mixture.

If you want a crispier top, broil the meatloaf for the last few minutes of cooking. Watch carefully to prevent burning!

Serve immediately for the best results. The meatloaf is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven.

Recipe Card for Classic Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf

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Perfecting the Cooking Process

First, brown the ground beef or turkey thoroughly. Then, prepare the flavorful Philly cheesesteak sauce. Next, combine the meat, sauce, and other ingredients. Finally, bake until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to experiment! Swap the beef for chicken or lamb. Add sautéed onions and peppers for extra flavor. Consider different cheeses like provolone or pepper jack. A dash of Worcestershire sauce (vegetarian) adds depth.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until heated through. Avoid overcooking, as this can dry out the meatloaf.

Gently brown the meat to retain moisture. Avoid overmixing the meatloaf mixture; it can become tough. Let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes after baking for easier slicing.

I once served this Classic Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf at a potluck. It disappeared faster than you can say “wit’ and whiz!” Everyone raved about the unique flavor combination.

Classic Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf Recipe

Ingredients

:

Meat & Sauce

1.5 lbs ground beef (or turkey, chicken, or lamb)

1 large onion, finely chopped

1 green bell pepper, finely chopped

1 red bell pepper, finely chopped

1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup (check label for vegetarian)

1/2 cup beef broth (or vegetable broth)

1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)

2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce (vegetarian)

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Meatloaf Assembly

1 cup shredded provolone cheese

1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Meatloaf Baking

1/4 cup olive oil

1 tbsp agar-agar powder (or other vegan gelling agent, follow package instructions)

Instructions

:

Preparing the Meat & Sauce

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan. In a large skillet, brown the ground meat over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease. Add the chopped onion and bell peppers to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, thyme, oregano, garlic powder, and black pepper.

Assembling the Meatloaf

Stir the cooked meat and vegetables into the sauce mixture. Gently mix, being careful not to overmix. In a small bowl, dissolve agar-agar powder in a few tablespoons of warm water according to package instructions. Stir the dissolved agar-agar into the meatloaf mixture. Pour the meatloaf mixture into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle the provolone and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Sprinkle with parsley, if desired.

Baking the Meatloaf

Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the center registers 165°F (74°C). If the top starts to brown too quickly, loosely tent it with foil. Let the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. Serve on hoagie rolls with extra cheese (optional).

Variations

:

Try adding sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions for extra flavor. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce mixture. Experiment with different cheeses—Monterey Jack or even a vegan cheese blend could be delicious.

Tips for Success

:

Don’t overwork the meat mixture; this can result in a tough meatloaf. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F to ensure it’s cooked through. Let the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes after baking to prevent it from crumbling when slicing.

This Classic Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, whether you’re feeding a family or impressing guests. The recipe is adaptable, allowing for personalized touches and creative twists. Enjoy!

Conclusion for Classic Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf:

This Classic Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf recipe is a fun twist on a classic comfort food. The combination of tender beef, savory onions, and melty cheese creates a flavor explosion that will please everyone. Remember, feel free to experiment with different cheeses and vegetables to make it your own. It’s easy to make, incredibly delicious, and sure to become a family favorite. So grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and get ready for a meatloaf adventure!

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FAQs:

Can I make this Classic Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf ahead of time?

Absolutely! This meatloaf is even better the next day. Prepare it the day before and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to bake, just add about 15-20 minutes to the cooking time. Reheating is a breeze too – you can pop it in the oven or microwave. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, resulting in an even more delicious Classic Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf. Trust me, the wait is worth it!

What kind of cheese is best for this recipe?

While provolone is traditional in a Philly cheesesteak, feel free to experiment! Sharp cheddar adds a nice bite, while Monterey Jack offers a milder, creamier flavor. A blend of cheeses could also be delicious. The key is to choose a cheese that melts well. Remember, this is your culinary adventure – let your taste buds be your guide for your Classic Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf masterpiece!

Is it possible to adapt this recipe for a low-carb diet?

You bet! To reduce carbs, you could swap the bread crumbs for finely crushed pork rinds or almond flour. Just be mindful of the texture – it might be slightly drier. Consider adding a little extra moisture with beef broth or unsweetened applesauce. Experiment to find the perfect balance for your low-carb Classic Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf. You’ll still enjoy those delicious Philly flavors!

Can I freeze this Classic Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf?

Freezing is perfectly fine! Once the meatloaf has completely cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. It should keep well in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking, adding a bit more time to the cooking process. Frozen Classic Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf is a great weeknight meal solution!