Philly Cheese Meatloaf

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Introduction:
Philly Cheese Meatloaf is a delicious twist on the classic meatloaf recipe, inspired by the flavors of the iconic Philly cheesesteak. This hearty dish combines seasoned ground beef with savory onions, peppers, mushrooms, and gooey melted cheese, all baked to perfection. With its comforting flavors and satisfying texture, Philly Cheese Meatloaf is sure to become a family favorite.

Origin and Popularity:
The origin of Philly Cheese Meatloaf can be traced to the iconic Philly cheesesteak sandwich, which originated in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in the early 20th century. The combination of thinly sliced steak, melted cheese, onions, and peppers has inspired numerous variations and adaptations, including this flavorful meatloaf recipe. By incorporating the classic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak into a comforting meatloaf dish, home cooks can enjoy the taste of a beloved sandwich in a new and delicious way.

Ingredients:

For the Meatloaf:

  • 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
  • 1 onion, finely diced
  • 1 bell pepper, finely diced (green or red)
  • 8 ounces mushrooms, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 eggs
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Topping:

  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 cup shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese

Optional Garnish:

  • Chopped fresh parsley

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Oven:
  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
  1. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, finely diced onion, bell pepper, mushrooms, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
  • Use your hands or a spoon to mix the ingredients until well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a dense meatloaf.
  1. Shape the Meatloaf:
  • Transfer the meatloaf mixture to the prepared loaf pan, shaping it into a loaf shape with your hands. Press the mixture firmly to ensure it holds together during baking.
  1. Prepare the Topping:
  • In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard until well combined. Spread the topping evenly over the surface of the meatloaf.
  1. Bake the Meatloaf:
  • Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the topping is caramelized.
  • During the last 10 minutes of baking, sprinkle the shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese over the top of the meatloaf. Return the meatloaf to the oven and continue baking until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  1. Rest and Serve:
  • Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest in the loaf pan for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
  • Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired, and serve slices of Philly Cheese Meatloaf hot, accompanied by your favorite side dishes.

Tips:

  • For added flavor, you can sauté the diced onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms in a skillet with a little olive oil until softened before adding them to the meatloaf mixture.
  • Feel free to customize the meatloaf by using your favorite cheese, such as provolone, mozzarella, or even American cheese slices.
  • Leftover meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual slices in the microwave or oven until heated through before serving.

Conclusion:
Philly Cheese Meatloaf offers a delicious twist on the classic meatloaf recipe, combining the savory flavors of ground beef, onions, peppers, mushrooms, and gooey melted cheese. With its comforting taste and satisfying texture, this flavorful dish is sure to please meatloaf lovers and fans of Philly cheesesteaks alike. Whether served as a cozy family dinner or shared with friends at a casual gathering, Philly Cheese Meatloaf is a comforting and delicious meal that is sure to become a favorite in your home.

Recommendation:
Pair slices of Philly Cheese Meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a classic comfort food meal that everyone will love. Serve with extra ketchup or mustard on the side for dipping, and enjoy the delicious flavors of this comforting and satisfying dish!

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