Philly Cheesesteak-Inspired Meatloaf Recipe

Scrumptious Philly Cheesesteak-Inspired Meatloaf Recipe

A classic philly cheesesteak craving sparked this mouthwatering meatloaf adventure.

Juicy ground beef meets melted provolone in a hearty comfort dish.

Peppers and onions add a delightful crunch that reminds you of the iconic sandwich.

Familiar flavors blend seamlessly into a new dinner favorite.

We’ve reimagined the beloved street food with a home-cooked twist.

Slicing into this savory loaf promises a delicious journey for your taste buds.

Dinner just got a whole lot more exciting – you won’t want to miss this recipe.

Philly Cheesesteak-Inspired Meatloaf Full of Flavor

  • Reinvent Classic Comfort: Transform traditional meatloaf into a mouthwatering Philly cheesesteak-inspired masterpiece that brings excitement to dinner.
  • Craft Hearty Family Meal: Create a satisfying main dish packed with protein and bold flavors that will make everyone at the table happy and full.
  • Master One-Pan Simplicity: Prepare a complete meal with minimal cleanup, using just a skillet and loaf pan for a stress-free cooking experience.
  • Customize with Ease: Adapt the recipe by swapping cheeses or adding extra seasonings to match your family's taste preferences and make it uniquely yours.

Ingredients for Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf Recipe

For the Meat:
  • Ground Beef: A hearty protein base that provides the classic meatloaf foundation and rich flavor.
For the Binding and Moisture:
  • Breadcrumbs, Egg, Milk: These ingredients help hold the meatloaf together and keep it moist and tender.
For the Flavor Enhancers:
  • Worcestershire Sauce: Adds deep, savory umami notes to the meatloaf.
  • Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Salt, Pepper: These seasonings create a well-rounded and balanced flavor profile.
For the Vegetables:
  • Bell Pepper, Onion: These sauteed vegetables add sweetness, texture, and a classic Philly cheesesteak-inspired element.
For the Cheese:
  • Shredded Cheese: Provides a melty, gooey texture and rich, tangy flavor that mimics a traditional Philly cheesesteak.
For the Optional Topping:
  • Ketchup: Adds a touch of sweetness and moisture to the top of the meatloaf.

How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf Perfectly

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Set your oven to a toasty 375F (190C). Prep a loaf pan by giving it a light grease or laying down a cozy parchment paper blanket for easy meatloaf removal.

Step 2: Sizzle the Veggies

Toss diced bell peppers and onions into a skillet. Let them dance and soften over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until they’re tender and fragrant.

Set them aside to cool down a bit.

Step 3: Create the Meaty Base

In a spacious mixing bowl, bring together:
  • Ground beef
  • Breadcrumbs
  • Beaten egg
  • Milk
  • Worcestershire sauce
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
  • Salt
  • Pepper

Gently mix these ingredients until they’re just combined.

Remember, treat the meat with care – no aggressive mixing!

Step 4: Build Your Flavor Layers

Spread half of the meat mixture into the prepared pan, pressing it down evenly.

Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheese, then scatter the sauteed vegetables. Top with the remaining meat mixture, sealing the edges with a gentle press.

Step 5: Optional Flavor Boost

If you’re feeling saucy, spread a layer of ketchup across the top of the meatloaf.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Slide the pan into the preheated oven.

Let it bake for 45-50 minutes until the internal temperature hits 160F (71C).

Step 7: Cheese Crown

Shower the meatloaf with the remaining shredded cheese.

Pop it back in the oven for 5 minutes until the cheese melts into a golden, bubbly blanket.

Step 8: Rest and Devour

Give the meatloaf a quick 5-10 minute rest.

Slice into this cheesy, meaty masterpiece and prepare for a flavor explosion that’ll transport you to the streets of Philadelphia!

Tips to Achieve Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf Excellence

  • Use a combination of ground beef with slightly higher fat content (80/20) to keep the meat moist and flavorful during baking.
  • Let sauteed vegetables cool completely before mixing into meat to prevent excess moisture and maintain the meat's texture.
  • Gently mix ingredients with a light hand to avoid compacting the meat, which can create a dense and tough meatloaf.
  • Layer cheese in the middle and on top for maximum melting and even flavor throughout the meatloaf.
  • Always check internal temperature reaches 160F to guarantee ground beef is thoroughly cooked and safe to consume.

Variations to Refresh Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf

  • Spicy Southwest Meatloaf: Replace bell peppers with jalapeños, add chili powder and cumin, top with pepper jack cheese for a zesty Mexican-inspired version.
  • Mediterranean Herb Meatloaf: Incorporate feta cheese, chopped spinach, oregano, and sun-dried tomatoes for a Greek-style flavor profile.
  • Mushroom Swiss Meatloaf: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onions, replace provolone with Swiss cheese, and add fresh thyme for an earthy, woodsy taste.
  • Italian Meatloaf Remix: Mix in Italian seasoning, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh basil, and marinara sauce for a classic Italian-American approach.

Pairings That Complement Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf

  • Select a crisp, malty provolone-friendly ale that complements the rich meaty flavors and cuts through the cheese's richness. Philadelphia-style craft beers work wonderfully with this Philly-inspired dish.
  • Create golden, crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with caramelized onions that mirror the meatloaf's flavor profile. These potatoes provide a complementary side that enhances the overall dining experience with textural contrast.

Proper Storage for Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf

  • Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or place in a sealed container to maintain moisture and prevent odor absorption.
  • Wrap individual slices or the entire meatloaf in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Place in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Label with the date to track freshness.
  • Cut desired portion and place on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking temperature and rotating halfway through.

FAQs

  • Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey works well as a leaner alternative. Just ensure it reaches the same internal temperature for food safety.

  • What type of cheese is best for this recipe?

Provolone or American cheese are traditional Philly cheesesteak choices and melt beautifully in this meatloaf.

  • How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Replace breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to maintain the meatloaf’s texture.

  • Is this meatloaf freezer-friendly?

Absolutely! Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Print
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Philly Cheesesteak-Inspired Meatloaf Recipe

Philly Cheesesteak-Inspired Meatloaf Recipe


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4.6 from 29 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Comfort meets creativity in this Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf, blending classic diner flavors with hearty home cooking. Rich beef, melted provolone, and caramelized peppers bring Philadelphia’s iconic sandwich into a satisfying dinner you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1.5 pounds (680 grams) ground beef
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 cup shredded provolone cheese

Vegetables:

  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 1 small onion, diced

Seasonings and Binders:

  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup (optional, for topping)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cooking environment by heating the oven to 375F (190C) and preparing a loaf pan with grease or parchment paper for smooth removal.
  2. Create a flavor base by sautéing diced bell peppers and onions in a skillet over medium heat until they become tender and slightly translucent, approximately 3-5 minutes. Set aside to cool slightly.
  3. Craft the meat mixture by combining ground beef with breadcrumbs, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Gently blend ingredients, being careful not to overwork the meat.
  4. Construct the meatloaf layers by spreading half the meat mixture into the prepared pan, creating an even base. Distribute half the shredded cheese and the sautéed vegetables across this first layer.
  5. Complete the layering process by covering the vegetables with the remaining meat mixture, gently pressing the edges to seal and create a cohesive loaf.
  6. Optional enhancement includes spreading a thin layer of ketchup across the meatloaf’s surface for added moisture and flavor.
  7. Roast the meatloaf in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 160F (71C) for safe consumption.
  8. Create a final cheese crust by sprinkling the remaining shredded cheese over the meatloaf during the last 5 minutes of cooking, allowing it to melt and become golden.
  9. Let the meatloaf rest for 5-10 minutes after removing from the oven, which helps stabilize the structure and intensify the flavors. Slice and serve while warm for maximum enjoyment.

Notes

  • Customize meat blend by mixing ground beef with ground pork or veal for deeper flavor complexity.
  • Swap breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or crushed pork rinds for low-carb dieters.
  • Reduce sodium by using low-sodium Worcestershire sauce and salt-free seasoning blends.
  • Add extra vegetables like mushrooms or spinach to boost nutritional value and create more texture variation.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 400 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 450 mg
  • Fat: 28 g
  • Saturated Fat: 12 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 12 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Cholesterol: 110 mg
Ethan Caldwell

Ethan Caldwell

Founder & Culinary Innovator

Expertise

Farm-to-table cooking, Seasonal recipe creation, Culinary storytelling, Food photography and styling​

Education

The Chef’s Academy (Indianapolis, IN)

  • Program: Associate Degree in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Focused on sustainable cooking practices, regional American cuisine, and recipe development.​

Ethan didn’t just fall in love with food, he grew into it, surrounded by fields, farmers’ markets, and family meals that told a story.
After sharpening his skills at The Chef’s Academy, he took his passion straight into the farm-to-table movement, working side-by-side with local growers and seasonal flavors.
He believes every recipe should feel like a walk through a summer market: colorful, fresh, and full of possibility.
Outside the kitchen, Ethan’s idea of a perfect day is hiking mountain trails, digging into heirloom vegetables, and hosting casual dinners where seconds are always encouraged.

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