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Instructions:
1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Meatloaf Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables soften and the onions become translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
3. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground sirloin, breadcrumbs, milk (or beef broth), egg, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, salt, pepper, oregano, thyme, and smoked paprika. Add the sautéed vegetables to the mixture and stir everything together until well combined. Be careful not to overwork the meat, as that can make the meatloaf tough.
4. Assemble the Meatloaf
Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared loaf pan, gently pressing it into the pan to form an even loaf. Use a spoon or your hands to shape it, smoothing the top so it bakes evenly.
5. Add Cheese
Before baking, make an indentation down the center of the meatloaf with your fingers to create a “well.” Stuff the well with 1 cup of the shredded provolone cheese (or your preferred cheese blend), ensuring it’s well-distributed. Then, top the meatloaf with the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese, spreading it evenly across the top.
6. Bake the Meatloaf
Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) on a meat thermometer. The cheese should be bubbly and slightly golden on top.
7. Optional Topping
If you’d like to take this cheesesteak meatloaf to the next level, mix together 1/2 cup mayonnaise and 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard to create a tangy, creamy topping. Spread this mixture on top of the meatloaf during the last 10 minutes of baking for a rich, smooth finish.
8. Let It Rest
Once done, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute and makes for cleaner, more flavorful slices.
9. Serve and Garnish
Slice the meatloaf into thick servings, and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve it alongside mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad for a complete meal.
Why Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf?
This Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf is the best of both worlds—combining the juicy, cheesy goodness of a Philly cheesesteak with the homey comfort of a traditional meatloaf. The combination of ground beef and sirloin creates a perfect balance of flavor and texture, while the addition of peppers, onions, and melted cheese gives it that signature Philly cheesesteak taste.
It’s a versatile dish that can be served as a weeknight dinner or as a fun, unique dish for gatherings. You can also customize it by experimenting with different cheeses, adding mushrooms for extra umami, or even using a mix of ground meats like pork or turkey for a lighter version.
Tips for Success:
- Use Lean Meat: A combination of ground beef and sirloin gives a nice balance of flavor and juiciness without being too greasy.
- Don’t Overmix: When mixing the meatloaf ingredients, be sure to handle the meat gently. Overmixing can lead to a tough texture.
- Cheese Choices: While provolone is a classic choice for Philly cheesesteaks, mozzarella, or even a sharp cheddar can add a nice twist. Feel free to use a blend of cheeses to get the perfect melt.
- Rest the Meatloaf: Let the meatloaf rest before slicing to ensure the juices stay locked in, making each bite tender and flavorful.
- Make It Spicy: If you like a little heat, consider adding some sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture for an extra kick.
Serving Suggestions:
- Classic Sides: Serve with mashed potatoes, sautéed green beans, or crispy roasted potatoes to keep things comforting and classic.
- On a Bun: If you’re really craving a cheesesteak experience, slice the meatloaf and serve it on a soft roll, topped with more cheese and sautéed onions and peppers for a fun twist on the traditional sandwich.
- Salad: A fresh side salad with a tangy vinaigrette can help balance the richness of the meatloaf, cutting through the creamy cheese and savory flavors.
Conclusion:
Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf is a unique and delicious twist on two classic comfort foods. With its layers of flavor from melted cheese, sautéed peppers and onions, and perfectly seasoned beef, it’s the perfect dish to impress at your next dinner party or enjoy for a cozy night in. Whether you’re a fan of Philly cheesesteaks or a meatloaf lover, this mashup will undoubtedly become a family favorite in no time! Enjoy!
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