Cheesy Meatloaf
Cheesy Meatloaf is a comforting classic that brings together juicy ground beef and rich, melted cheddar cheese in every bite. It’s a dish that’s easy to prepare but delivers a hearty, satisfying meal perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings. The combination of savory meat, aromatic onions and garlic, and the gooey pockets of sharp cheddar makes this recipe a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Plus, the simple ingredients come together quickly, making it a no-fuss option when you want homemade goodness without hours in the kitchen.
The Upside of Cheesy Meatloaf
What makes Cheesy Meatloaf such a winner? For starters, it’s incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite spices or swap out the cheese for different flavors, but the classic sharp cheddar adds that perfect tang and creaminess that melts beautifully inside the meat. It’s also a one-pan meal that pairs well with sides like mashed potatoes or a crisp salad. And since it uses lean ground beef, it’s a balanced dish that offers protein without too much fat.
Another great advantage is that this recipe uses pantry staples and fresh ingredients you likely already have on hand. The Worcestershire sauce and ketchup provide a subtle tang and umami depth, while the breadcrumbs and milk keep the meatloaf tender and moist. Best of all, the melted cheese hidden in the middle adds that joyful surprise with every slice.
If you’re looking for a side to complement this recipe, try pairing it with Crispy Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes With Garlic Cream for an indulgent, cheesy meal that everyone will love.
Shopping List
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup ketchup, divided
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup cubed sharp cheddar cheese
Tools & Equipment Needed
- Large skillet – for sautéing onions and garlic
- Mixing bowl – to combine all meatloaf ingredients
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient amounts
- Loaf pan or baking dish – to shape and bake the meatloaf
- Wooden spoon or spatula – for mixing
- Sharp knife – to dice onion and cube cheddar
- Oven mitts – for safe handling when removing from oven
Build Cheesy Meatloaf Step by Step
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat 1 teaspoon of olive oil in your skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the lean ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, half of the ketchup (about 2 tablespoons), Worcestershire sauce, beaten egg, salt, and pepper. Add the sautéed onions and garlic. Using your hands or a spoon, mix everything gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
Step 3: Assemble the Meatloaf
Lightly grease your loaf pan or baking dish. Spread half of the meat mixture evenly into the bottom of the pan, pressing down gently. Sprinkle the cubed sharp cheddar cheese evenly over this layer. Then, cover with the remaining meat mixture and smooth the top.
Step 4: Top and Bake
Spread the remaining ketchup over the top of the meatloaf. This adds a glossy finish and a tangy layer of flavor. Place the meatloaf in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Once out of the oven, let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This resting time helps the juices redistribute, ensuring each slice is juicy and holds together well. Serve with your favorite sides like creamy mashed potatoes or a fresh green vegetable.
For a delicious twist on comfort foods, consider making Baked Ranch Chicken Cheddar Potato Casserole alongside your meatloaf for a full-flavored meal.
Better Choices & Swaps
- Ground Meat: Substitute lean ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Cheese: Use mozzarella or pepper jack for a milder or spicier cheese experience.
- Bread Crumbs: Swap plain breadcrumbs for panko for extra crunch or use gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.
- Milk: Use any type of milk you prefer, including plant-based alternatives like almond or oat milk.
- Ketchup: Substitute with tomato sauce mixed with a little honey or maple syrup for a less sweet topping.
- Onion and Garlic: Use onion powder and garlic powder in a pinch if fresh is unavailable.
Avoid These Mistakes
- Overmixing: Mixing the meat too much can make the meatloaf dense and tough. Mix just until combined.
- Skipping the Rest: Not letting the meatloaf rest after baking can cause the juices to run out when slicing.
- Incorrect Oven Temperature: Baking at too high a temperature can dry out the meatloaf; keep it at 350°F for even cooking.
- Not Using Enough Moisture: The milk and ketchup help keep the meatloaf moist, so don’t skip or reduce these drastically.
Shelf Life & Storage
Store any leftover Cheesy Meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Popular Questions
Can I make Cheesy Meatloaf ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture, assemble it in the pan, and refrigerate it overnight before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap. This makes dinner prep even easier on busy days.
What can I serve with Cheesy Meatloaf?
Classic sides like mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or roasted vegetables complement this dish perfectly. For a cheesy potato option, try pairing your meatloaf with Cheeseburger Biscuit Bake With Special Sauce Drizzle for a fun and indulgent meal.
How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked?
The safest way is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, check that the juices run clear when you cut into the center.
Can I add vegetables to this meatloaf?
Yes! Finely chopped veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms can be sautéed with the onions and garlic and mixed into the meat for added nutrition and flavor.
Similar Recipes
- Cheeseburger Biscuit Bake With Special Sauce Drizzle
- Baked Ranch Chicken Cheddar Potato Casserole
- Crispy Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes With Garlic Cream
Ready, Set, Cook
Gather your ingredients and tools, and follow the easy step-by-step instructions above to create your own delicious Cheesy Meatloaf. This recipe is perfect for both beginner cooks and seasoned home chefs looking for a reliable, flavorful meal. The combination of tender beef, melted cheddar, and savory sauce topping creates a dish that’s as comforting as it is tasty. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this Cheesy Meatloaf will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Enjoy the process, savor the flavors, and don’t be afraid to customize it to your taste!
Share on Pinterest
Cheesy Meatloaf
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat 1 teaspoon of olive oil in your skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the lean ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, half of the ketchup (about 2 tablespoons), Worcestershire sauce, beaten egg, salt, and pepper. Add the sautéed onions and garlic. Mix gently until just combined, avoiding overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
- Lightly grease your loaf pan or baking dish. Spread half of the meat mixture evenly into the bottom of the pan, pressing down gently. Sprinkle the cubed sharp cheddar cheese evenly over this layer. Then, cover with the remaining meat mixture and smooth the top.
- Spread the remaining ketchup over the top of the meatloaf. Place the meatloaf in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Once out of the oven, let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with your favorite sides like creamy mashed potatoes or fresh green vegetables.
Notes
- For a lighter option, substitute lean ground beef with ground turkey or chicken.
- Mix the meat ingredients just until combined to avoid a dense meatloaf.
- Letting the meatloaf rest after baking helps keep slices juicy and intact.
