Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf: A Flavor-Packed Twist on a Classic Comfort Food

If you’re a fan of the iconic Philly cheesesteak sandwich and love the hearty comfort of meatloaf, then you’re in for a treat! This Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf recipe combines the best of both worlds, delivering a mouthwatering dish that’s packed with ground beef, sautéed peppers, onions, mushrooms, and gooey Provolone cheese. It’s a family-friendly meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings.

With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a cooking time of 1 hour, this recipe is surprisingly easy to make. Plus, each serving comes in at 356 calories, making it a satisfying yet balanced option for dinner. Let’s dive into the details of this delicious recipe and learn how to make it step by step.

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Why You’ll Love This Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf

1. Bold Flavors: The combination of sautéed vegetables, savory ground beef, and melty Provolone cheese creates a flavor explosion in every bite.
2. Comfort Food Upgrade: Meatloaf gets a gourmet twist with the addition of Philly cheesesteak-inspired ingredients.
3. Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is perfect for both beginner and experienced cooks.
4. Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this dish is sure to impress.

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Ingredients for Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious recipe:

• 2 tablespoons butter: For sautéing the vegetables.
• 1 small yellow onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
• 1 small green bell pepper, diced: Provides a fresh, slightly tangy taste.
• 8 ounces brown mushrooms, minced: Enhances the umami flavor.
• 1⁄2 teaspoon kosher salt: Balances the flavors.
• 1⁄2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a hint of spice.
• 2 tablespoons ketchup: Adds a touch of sweetness and tang.
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce: Boosts the savory flavor.
• 2 large eggs: Helps bind the meatloaf together.
• 2 lbs lean ground beef (80/20 or 85/15): The star of the dish.
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs: Keeps the meatloaf moist and tender.
• 8 ounces Provolone cheese slices: For that signature Philly cheesesteak cheesiness.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Spray a large 9×5-inch loaf pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, melt the 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, green bell pepper, mushrooms, salt, and black pepper. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, then let the vegetables brown for another 1-2 minutes. Remove the skillet from the heat and let the mixture cool for 5 minutes.

Step 3: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and eggs. Mix until smooth. Add the ground beef, sautéed vegetables, and panko breadcrumbs. Use your hands to mix everything thoroughly until well combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Meatloaf

Press half of the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan. Lay half of the Provolone cheese slices in a single layer through the center of the meatloaf, leaving about 2 inches wide. Top with the remaining meat mixture, pressing down gently to seal the edges.

Step 5: Bake the Meatloaf

Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for 40 minutes. Remove it from the oven and top with the remaining Provolone cheese slices. Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful result. Slice and serve warm.

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 The History of Philly Cheesesteak and Its Influence on This Recipe

The Philly Cheesesteak is an iconic American sandwich that originated in Philadelphia in the early 20th century. It was created by Pat Olivieri, a hot dog vendor who decided to grill some beef and put it on a roll. The addition of cheese came later, with Provolone and Cheez Whiz becoming the most popular choices. Over the years, the sandwich has evolved, but its core ingredients—thinly sliced beef, melted cheese, and sautéed onions and peppers—have remained the same.

This Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf recipe takes inspiration from the classic sandwich and transforms it into a hearty, family-friendly dish. By incorporating ground beef, sautéed vegetables, and Provolone cheese, this meatloaf captures the essence of the Philly cheesesteak while offering a new way to enjoy its flavors. The result is a comforting, savory meal that pays homage to the original sandwich while standing on its own as a unique creation.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. While it stays true to the traditional Philly cheesesteak flavors, it also allows for customization. For example, you can add jalapeños for a spicy kick or swap Provolone for another type of cheese. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the original sandwich or simply looking for a new twist on meatloaf, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings.

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 Why Meatloaf is the Ultimate Comfort Food

Meatloaf has long been a staple of American comfort food. Its origins can be traced back to European immigrants who brought their meat-based dishes to the United States. Over time, meatloaf became a popular dish during the Great Depression because it was an affordable way to stretch a small amount of meat into a filling meal. Today, it remains a beloved classic, cherished for its simplicity, versatility, and nostalgic appeal.

What makes meatloaf so comforting is its hearty, homey nature. It’s a dish that evokes memories of family dinners and cozy evenings. The combination of ground meat, breadcrumbs, and seasonings creates a satisfying texture and flavor that’s hard to resist. Plus, meatloaf is incredibly versatile—you can customize it with different meats, vegetables, and sauces to suit your taste.

This Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf takes the classic comfort of meatloaf and elevates it with the bold flavors of a Philly cheesesteak. The addition of sautéed peppers, onions, and mushrooms adds depth and richness, while the melted Provolone cheese brings a gooey, indulgent touch. It’s a dish that’s both familiar and exciting, making it the perfect choice for anyone seeking a comforting yet innovative meal.

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 Tips for Perfecting Your Meatloaf Game

Making a great meatloaf is all about technique and attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf turns out perfectly every time:

1. Choose the Right Meat: For the best texture and flavor, use ground beef with a fat content of 80/20 or 85/15. The fat keeps the meatloaf moist and tender.
2. Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the meatloaf mixture can result in a dense, tough texture. Mix the ingredients just until they’re combined.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: Sautéing the onions, peppers, and mushrooms before adding them to the meatloaf enhances their flavor and ensures they’re tender.
4. Use Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs are lighter and crispier than traditional breadcrumbs, giving the meatloaf a better texture.
5. Let It Rest: Allowing the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes after baking helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a moister, more flavorful dish.

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Serving Suggestions

This Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas:

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort food pairing.
• Roasted Vegetables: Try roasted broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts for a healthy side.
• Garlic Bread: A slice of warm garlic bread complements the flavors perfectly.
• Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the meatloaf.

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Nutritional Information

Each serving of this Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf contains approximately:

• Calories: 356 kcal
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fat: 22g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 3g

This dish is a great source of protein and provides a satisfying meal without being overly heavy.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?

Yes! While Provolone is traditional for Philly cheesesteak, you can substitute it with American cheese, mozzarella, or cheddar for a different flavor profile.

Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, simply assemble and follow the cooking instructions.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Can I Freeze This Meatloaf?

Yes, this meatloaf freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

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Conclusion

This Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf is a delicious and creative twist on two beloved classics. With its savory ground beef, flavorful vegetables, and melty Provolone cheese, it’s a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Plus, it’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion.