Name: Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds ground beef (85% or 90% lean); 1 medium yellow onion (half diced, half sliced); 1 medium green bell pepper (diced); 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded); 2 large eggs; 3 teaspoons garlic (minced); 2 tablespoons ketchup; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 2 slices bread (cubed); ⅓ cup milk; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon paprika; 2 tablespoons butter; ½ cup milk; 2 ounces cream cheese (sliced); 1 teaspoon cornstarch; ¼ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon garlic powder; ¼ teaspoon mustard powder; ¼ teaspoon onion powder; 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)

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Introduction

Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf combines the rich flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak into a comforting, hearty meatloaf. This dish is packed with savory ground beef, melted cheddar, sautéed onions, and a creamy cheese sauce that elevates every bite.

A white plate holds a thick slice of meatloaf filled with green and white bits, topped with a smooth layer of orange cheese sauce that slightly drips down the sides, next to a pile of bright yellow-orange cheesy macaroni with a creamy texture, and fresh green steamed broccoli florets with a crisp look, all sitting on a white marbled surface with sprigs of green herbs around. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 pounds ground beef (85% or 90% lean)
1 medium yellow onion (half diced, half sliced)
1 medium green bell pepper (diced)
1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
2 large eggs
3 teaspoons garlic (minced)
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
2 slices bread (cubed)
⅓ cup milk
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
2 tablespoons butter
½ cup milk (for cheese sauce)
2 ounces cream cheese (sliced)
1 teaspoon cornstarch
¼ teaspoon salt (for cheese sauce)
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon mustard powder
¼ teaspoon onion powder
1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded, for cheese sauce)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350℉ and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, half of the diced onions, diced bell pepper, 1 cup shredded cheddar, eggs, garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, cubed bread, ⅓ cup milk, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Mix until just combined.
Step 3: Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in the center of the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 50 minutes.
Step 4: About 10 minutes before the meatloaf finishes baking, melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the sliced onions until soft and translucent.
Step 5: Meanwhile, in a saucepan over medium-low heat, add ½ cup milk and cream cheese. Whisk continuously until the cream cheese is fully melted and blended into the milk.
Step 6: Add cornstarch, salt, garlic powder, mustard powder, and onion powder to the sauce. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
Step 7: Gradually add 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese to the sauce, whisking constantly until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
Step 8: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the top, then sprinkle the sautéed onions on top before serving.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh bread for better texture in the meatloaf or substitute with breadcrumbs if preferred.
Add thinly sliced mushrooms along with the bell peppers for an extra layer of flavor.
Try provolone cheese in the cheese sauce for a closer Philly cheesesteak taste.
For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat mixture or cheese sauce.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven to preserve the creamy sauce and prevent the meatloaf from drying out.

How to Serve

A mound-shaped dish sits on a wooden board, covered in a thick layer of smooth, bright orange cheese sauce that drips down the sides and pools slightly at the base. Underneath the cheese sauce, the base layer appears to be a dark, chunky mixture with visible bits of vegetables. On top of the cheese sauce, lightly browned, thin strips of cooked onion add a soft texture and light golden color contrast. The board is placed on a white marbled surface with some green parsley decoration around the dish, and a grey cloth with white dots is partially visible in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of ground meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or pork, but keep in mind the taste and fat content will vary. Adjust seasoning as needed.

How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked?

The internal temperature should reach 160℉ when measured with a meat thermometer inserted into the center of the loaf. This ensures it is safe to eat and juicy.