This meatloaf sandwich is a warm and hearty meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. The soft bread holds juicy slices of meatloaf, often topped with tangy ketchup or your favorite sauce.
Honestly, who can resist a good meatloaf sandwich? It brings back memories of family dinners. I like to pair it with a side of crispy chips or a simple salad for a satisfying meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: A classic choice for meatloaf, but feel free to mix in ground pork for extra flavor. Turkey or chicken can work, too, if you want a leaner option.
Breadcrumbs: These are essential for holding everything together. If you’re gluten-free, use crushed gluten-free crackers or oats in place of regular breadcrumbs.
Ketchup: Adds a tangy sweetness to the meatloaf. You can substitute barbecue sauce or spicy mustard if you’re looking for a different flavor profile!
Provolone Cheese: I love using provolone for its meltiness, but mozzarella or cheddar works great, too. Try how different cheeses change the overall taste.
Fresh Lettuce: While optional, adding lettuce gives a nice crunch. Spinach or arugula would be delicious alternatives too.
How Do I Get My Meatloaf to Hold Together and Stay Juicy?
The key to a great meatloaf is how you combine your ingredients. Don’t overmix; you want everything to be just mixed without becoming tough. Soaking the breadcrumbs helps them retain moisture, which keeps your meatloaf juicy.
- Always let your meatloaf rest after baking. This helps it firm up and makes slicing easier.
- Using an instant-read thermometer can make all the difference; it ensures your meatloaf is perfectly cooked without drying it out.
How to Make a Delicious Meatloaf Sandwich
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
For the Sandwich:
- 4 slices white sandwich bread
- 4 slices provolone cheese (or mozzarella)
- 2 tbsp butter
- Fresh lettuce leaves (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare, plus 45-55 minutes to bake the meatloaf. After baking, let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing for your sandwiches. Overall, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in about 1 hour and 15 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, soak the breadcrumbs in milk for a few minutes until they soften. This step is crucial for keeping your meatloaf nice and juicy!
2. Mix It All Together:
Next, add the ground beef, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and your choice of dried thyme or Italian seasoning to the breadcrumb mixture. Gently mix everything together until it’s just combined—don’t overmix!
3. Shape and Bake the Meatloaf:
Shape the mixed ingredients into a loaf and place it on a lined baking sheet or in a loaf pan. Bake it in the preheated oven for about 45-55 minutes. You’re looking for an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). If you’d like, spread a thin layer of ketchup on top of the meatloaf during the last 15 minutes of baking for a nice glaze.
4. Slice and Rest:
Once baked, let your meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes. This resting time helps it firm up, making it easier to slice into thick pieces for your sandwiches.
5. Assemble Your Sandwich:
Now it’s time for the best part! Heat a skillet over medium heat and butter one side of each slice of bread. Place two slices butter-side-down in the skillet. Layer them with a fresh lettuce leaf, a thick slice of meatloaf, and top it off with a slice of provolone cheese.
6. Grill to Perfection:
Place the other slice of bread on top, butter-side-up. Grill the sandwiches until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted, which should take about 3-4 minutes per side. Flip carefully to ensure everything stays deliciously stacked.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once grilled, remove the sandwiches from the skillet. Feel free to cut them in half for easier eating. Serve warm, and enjoy your hearty and delightful meatloaf sandwich!
This sandwich is a beautiful combination of juicy meatloaf, melted cheese, and crunchy bread! Perfect for a cozy meal. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Leftover Meatloaf for This Sandwich?
Absolutely! In fact, leftover meatloaf makes the sandwich even easier to prepare. Just slice your already cooked meatloaf and skip the baking step. Heat your meatloaf slices in the skillet before assembling the sandwich!
How Do I Store Leftover Meatloaf Sandwiches?
Store any leftover meatloaf sandwiches in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to maintain the best texture, consider storing the meatloaf and bread separately and assembling the sandwich fresh when you’re ready to eat.
Can I Freeze Meatloaf Before Cooking?
Yes! You can prepare the meatloaf, shape it, and then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil before freezing. Just be sure to thaw it in the fridge before baking. This helps maintain moisture and flavor!
What Can I Serve with Meatloaf Sandwiches?
These sandwiches pair well with crispy potato chips, a side salad, or even some pickles for a tangy crunch. You can also serve them with a warm bowl of tomato soup for a comforting meal!
