Description
Cheesy Meatloaf
Ingredients:
2 lbs ground beef
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup diced green bell pepper
½ cup diced onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 egg
½ cup milk
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 cup tomato sauce
½ cup diced tomatoes
½ cup additional shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, shredded cheese, bell pepper, onion, garlic, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper until well combined. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish. In a small bowl, mix tomato sauce and diced tomatoes, then spread over the meatloaf. Bake for 45 minutes. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar on top and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese melts and is bubbly. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm. Enjoy!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed steps for a perfect, cheesy meatloaf every time. First, ensure all ingredients are prepped and measured. In your largest mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, 1 cup of cheddar cheese, bell pepper, onion, garlic, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to mix gently but thoroughly—overmixing can make the loaf dense. On a clean surface or parchment paper, shape the mixture into a uniform loaf roughly 9×5 inches. Transfer it to a baking dish, leaving space around the edges for air circulation. For the sauce, simply stir together the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes, then spread it evenly over the top and sides of the loaf. Bake as directed, adding the final cheese topping only in the last 10 minutes to prevent burning. The crucial rest period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring neat slices.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty Cheesy Meatloaf pairs beautifully with classic comfort sides. For a traditional plate, serve a thick slice alongside creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans or glazed carrots. The rich tomato and cheese topping also makes it an excellent companion for buttery egg noodles or a simple garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Leftovers make a fantastic sandwich the next day on toasted bread with a bit of lettuce and extra tomato sauce or ketchup.
How-to Summary
To summarize: mix beef, fillings, and binders; shape into a loaf; top with tomato blend; bake at 375°F for 45 minutes; add remaining cheese; bake 10 more minutes; rest for 10 minutes before slicing and garnishing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of ground meat? Absolutely. A mix of beef and pork (or even turkey) works well. Adjust cooking time slightly for leaner meats, as they can dry out faster.
How can I make this gluten-free? Substitute the breadcrumbs with an equal amount of gluten-free oats or a certified gluten-free breadcrumb alternative.
Why did my meatloaf fall apart when slicing? This is usually due to insufficient binding. Ensure you use the egg and breadcrumbs as listed, and do not skip the 10-minute resting period after baking.
Can I prepare meatloaf ahead of time? Yes. Assemble the loaf, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked? The safest method is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the loaf; it should read 160°F (71°C).
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the meat: This compacts the proteins, leading to a tough, dense texture. Mix just until ingredients are combined.
- Using lean beef exclusively: A higher fat content (like 80/20) keeps the meatloaf moist and flavorful.
- Skipping the rest time: Slicing immediately causes the juices to run out, resulting in a dry loaf.
- Adding topping cheese too early: Adding the final cheese at the beginning will cause it to burn. Only add it for the last 10 minutes of baking.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Meatloaf recipe elevates a classic comfort food with pockets of melted cheddar and a savory tomato topping. By following the step-by-step guide and heeding the common pitfalls, you can create a consistently moist, flavorful, and impressive centerpiece for any family dinner. Its versatility in pairing and make-ahead potential makes it a reliable go-to recipe that’s sure to become a household favorite.