How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf That’s Juicy and Flavorful
This Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf is a fun twist on a classic comfort food. It combines tender, juicy ground beef mixed with sautéed onions and peppers, just like the filling in…
Tip: save now, cook later.This Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf is a fun twist on a classic comfort food. It combines tender, juicy ground beef mixed with sautéed onions and peppers, just like the filling in a traditional Philly cheesesteak sandwich. Topped with melty cheese, this meatloaf brings together all those familiar flavors in one cozy dish.
I love making this meatloaf because it’s both simple and satisfying. The secret to keeping it juicy is mixing in some breadcrumbs and a little milk, which helps lock in moisture while the meatloaf bakes. Adding those sautéed veggies gives it a nice pop of flavor and texture that really lifts it beyond a regular meatloaf.
My favorite way to enjoy this dish is with a side of mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad. It’s perfect for a family dinner and always gets compliments for being both hearty and full of flavor. I think it’s great comfort food that reminds me of cozy nights in but with a tasty Philly cheesesteak vibe.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground beef: Using 80/20 beef keeps the meatloaf juicy without being too greasy. If you want leaner meat, try mixing half ground turkey or chicken, but add extra moisture like a splash of broth.
Breadcrumbs and milk: Breadcrumbs help bind the meatloaf and keep it tender. If you’re gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed crackers. Milk adds moisture; you can substitute with unsweetened plant-based milk.
Onions, bell peppers, and garlic: These sautéed veggies bring that classic Philly cheesesteak flavor. Yellow or sweet onions work best. If you don’t love bell peppers, try using sautéed mushrooms instead.
Cheese: Cheddar melts nicely and adds sharp flavor. Provolone or American cheese are great alternatives if you want an authentic Philly touch. Feel free to mix cheeses for more depth.
How Do I Keep My Meatloaf Tender and Juicy?
Making meatloaf juicy is all about balancing moisture and not overworking the meat. Here’s my approach:
- Mix ground beef with milk and breadcrumbs to lock in moisture.
- Don’t overmix — combine ingredients gently to avoid dense meatloaf.
- Cook the sautéed veggies first so they release some water and soften, adding flavor without extra liquid.
- Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking; aim for 160°F inside.
- Let meatloaf rest before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Loaf pan or baking sheet – shapes your meatloaf perfectly and helps it cook evenly.
- Large mixing bowl – makes combining all your ingredients easy without making a mess.
- Skillet – for sautéing onions, peppers, and garlic to bring out their flavor.
- Meat thermometer – ensures your meatloaf is cooked safely without drying out.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – great for gentle mixing and folding in ingredients.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version that still stays juicy.
- Add sautéed mushrooms for a deeper, earthy flavor that pairs well with the peppers and onions.
- Mix in diced jalapeños for a spicy kick if you like a bit of heat.
- Use provolone or mozzarella cheese instead of cheddar for a melty, milder topping.
How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf That’s Juicy and Flavorful
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds ground beef (preferably 80/20)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- ½ cup milk
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided; can use provolone or American cheese as well)
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, 45 minutes baking, plus an extra 10-15 minutes for cheese melting and resting time. Overall, you can expect around 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Sauté Veggies:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to keep your meatloaf from sticking. Next, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and green bell peppers, cooking them until they’re soft and just a bit caramelized—this usually takes about 7-10 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for one more minute, then take the skillet off heat and let the veggies cool a bit.
2. Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Stir gently until everything is blended well—try not to overmix, or the meatloaf could get tough. Fold in the sautéed veggies and half of the shredded cheddar cheese, spreading it evenly through the meat.
3. Form and Bake the Meatloaf:
Shape your mixture into a loaf and place it in your prepared pan or on a baking sheet. Pop it into the oven and bake for about 45 minutes.
4. Add Cheese and Finish Baking:
After 45 minutes, take the meatloaf out and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. Return it to the oven, baking for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Check that the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.
5. Rest and Serve:
Let your meatloaf rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing so the juices settle in. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve warm. This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes or a crisp green salad.
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Meatloaf?
Yes, but be sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight before using. This helps ensure even mixing and cooking.
Can I Make Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meat mixture a day ahead, keep it covered in the fridge, then bake when ready. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven to preserve moisture and flavor.
Can I Substitute Different Cheeses in This Recipe?
Definitely! Provolone or American cheese are great choices for a classic Philly cheesesteak taste, and mozzarella can add a nice meltiness. Feel free to mix or match based on your preference.