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Cheesy Beef Meatloaf

Cheesy Beef Meatloaf

  • Author: Lina
  • Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free (if gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour used)

Description

Cheesy Beef Meatloaf is a hearty and comforting dish combining juicy ground beef with melted cheese in every bite. This family-friendly recipe blends savory flavors and creamy cheese, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy weekends. Easy to prepare with simple ingredients, it delivers warmth and satisfaction with every slice.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio recommended)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
  • 3/4 cup breadcrumbs (regular or gluten-free)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup tomato sauce or ketchup (for topping)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Italian herbs (dried basil, oregano, thyme)

Optional Variations

  • 1–2 diced jalapeños or 1 teaspoon hot sauce (for spicy kick)
  • 1/2 cup finely shredded carrots, zucchini, or spinach (for vegetable boost)
  • Alternate cheeses: pepper jack, provolone, blue cheese
  • Ground turkey or chicken substitute (1 lb)
  • Almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs to replace regular breadcrumbs

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Finely chop the onion and garlic, shred the cheese if not pre-shredded, and gather all remaining ingredients.
  2. Mix the Meatloaf Base: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, Italian herbs, and half of the shredded cheese. Mix gently but thoroughly to evenly distribute ingredients without compacting the meat.
  3. Shape and Fill: On a lined baking sheet or in a loaf pan, shape half of the meat mixture into a loaf. Create a shallow trench in the center and fill it with the remaining shredded cheese. Cover the cheese by shaping the remaining meat mixture over the top, sealing well.
  4. Add Topping and Bake: Spread tomato sauce or ketchup evenly over the top of the meatloaf. Bake in the preheated oven for 60-75 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
  5. Rest and Serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes to allow juices to redistribute and cheese to set before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting and flavor.
  • Do not overmix the meat mixture to keep the meatloaf tender.
  • Allow meatloaf to rest after baking to contain gooey cheese.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf is cooked through.
  • Experiment with layering cheese inside or sprinkling on top for texture variations.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 70 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 1/6 of meatloaf)
  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 550 mg
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 9 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 10 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 28 g
  • Cholesterol: 120 mg

Keywords: meatloaf, cheesy meatloaf, ground beef recipe, comfort food, family dinner, easy meatloaf, baked meatloaf

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Find it online: https://dishesbylina.com/cheesy-beef-meatloaf/