This Cheddar-Stuffed Meatloaf is a tasty twist on a classic favorite! Packed with juicy ground meat and gooey cheese, it’s a comforting dish that brings smiles all around.
Who can resist that warm, melted cheese in the middle? I love serving it with mashed potatoes; they soak up all those yummy juices. Trust me, you’ll want seconds! 🥔❤️
Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80% lean ground beef. It gives a nice balance of flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken can work too but make sure to add a little extra fat to keep it juicy.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds great flavor to the meatloaf. If you want a milder taste, you can use medium cheddar or even Monterey Jack. Feeling adventurous? Try pepper jack for a little kick!
Breadcrumbs: I like plain breadcrumbs to keep it simple, but you can use Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs for an extra layer of flavor. Gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed crackers are good substitutions if needed.
Onion and Garlic: Fresh onions and garlic are key for flavor. You can substitute onion powder and garlic powder if you’re in a pinch, but fresh really makes a difference!
How Do You Keep Meatloaf Moist and Flavorful?
Keeping meatloaf moist can be a challenge, but here are some tips. First, make sure you soak the breadcrumbs in milk. This step adds moisture directly into the mixture. Mixing gently is also important, as overmixing can result in a dense meatloaf.
- For extra moisture, consider adding a tablespoon of steak sauce or minced bell peppers to the meat mixture.
- Using a wire rack helps cook the meatloaf evenly and allows fat to drip away, preventing the bottom from getting soggy.
Cheddar-Stuffed Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 2 lbs ground beef (preferably 80% lean)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3/4 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
For the Topping:
- 1 cup ketchup (for topping)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Cheddar-Stuffed Meatloaf takes about 20 minutes to prep and approximately 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes to bake. Don’t forget to let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing so that all those flavors can settle in nicely. Altogether, you’re looking at a deliciously filling dish in about 1 hour and 45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Tray:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, line a baking tray with foil to catch any drips, and place a wire rack on top. This will help keep the meatloaf crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.
2. Soak the Breadcrumbs:
In a large bowl, add the plain breadcrumbs and pour in the milk. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until the breadcrumbs absorb the milk and become soft. This will keep your meatloaf moist!
3. Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients:
To the soaked breadcrumbs, add the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (if you’re using it). Mix everything together using your hands or a spoon, but don’t overmix—just enough to combine everything into a nice, cohesive mixture.
4. Shape the Meatloaf:
On a clean surface or a large piece of parchment paper, take half of the meat mixture and shape it into a loaf about 9 x 5 inches. Make sure it’s even all over!
5. Add the Cheeses:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly over the meat layer. Remember to leave about 1 inch from the edges to keep the cheese contained!
6. Seal It Up:
Carefully take the remaining meat mixture and cover the cheese layer completely. Smooth out the top and sides so the cheese is sealed inside. This yummy surprise will ooze out when you cut into it later!
7. Get It Ready for the Oven:
Transfer the meatloaf onto the wire rack set over the baking tray. This allows heat to circulate around it while cooking.
8. Add the Topping:
Spread the ketchup evenly over the top of the meatloaf for that sweet and tangy glaze. You can add a bit more or less as per your taste!
9. Bake It:
Pop the meatloaf into your preheated oven, baking for about 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes. You want the internal temperature to reach 160°F (71°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.
10. Rest and Slice:
Once it’s done baking, carefully take it out of the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This is key to keep it juicy. After resting, slice it into portions and serve.
11. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color before serving! Pair it with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Enjoy gooey, cheesy meatloaf with every delicious bite! It’s sure to be a hit with family and friends!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for a lighter option. Just keep in mind that these meats are leaner, so you might want to add a tablespoon of oil or some extra moisture to prevent dryness.
How Can I Store Leftover Meatloaf?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’d like to freeze it, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Can I Make This Meatloaf Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the meat mixture and form the loaf a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. If you do this, you might want to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time since it will be chilled when you put it in the oven.
Is There a Vegetarian Version of This Recipe?
Definitely! You can make a vegetarian meatloaf using ingredients like lentils, beans, or TVP (textured vegetable protein). Add more veggies, oats, or quinoa to give it structure and flavor. Don’t forget to include cheese if you’re not aiming for a vegan dish!
