Classic Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf Recipe

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Looking for a new twist on classic comfort food? This Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf combines everything you love about a traditional meatloaf with the rich, cheesy, beefy flavors of a Philadelphia cheesesteak. Imagine tender ground beef mixed with sautéed onions and peppers, loaded with provolone or Cheez Whiz, and baked into the ultimate savory loaf. It’s hearty, cheesy, and absolutely unforgettable.

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🧑‍🍳 What Is a Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf?

A Philly cheesesteak is traditionally made with thinly sliced steak, onions, and melted cheese, usually served on a hoagie roll. This Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf reimagines those flavors in loaf form. Instead of steak strips, we use seasoned ground beef (or a mix with ground pork), sautéed peppers and onions, and plenty of gooey cheese layered inside and on top.

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👨‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Veggies

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.

2. Add diced onions and bell peppers. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until soft.

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3. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more.

4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Step 2: Make the Meat Mixture

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, sautéed vegetables, eggs, breadcrumbs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.

2. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon—just until combined. Don’t overmix, or it will get tough.

Step 3: Assemble the Meatloaf

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Lightly grease or line your loaf pan.

3. Place half of the meat mixture into the loaf pan and press it down evenly.

4. Layer provolone slices (or drizzle Cheez Whiz) over the meat layer, leaving a little space around the edges.

5. Add the rest of the meat mixture on top, pressing down and sealing the cheese in.

Step 4: Bake the Meatloaf

1. Bake uncovered for 45–55 minutes, or until the internal temp reaches 160°F (71°C).

2. During the last 10 minutes, layer additional cheese on top and let it melt.

3. If using Cheez Whiz, drizzle it on after baking.

Step 5: Let It Rest & Serve

1. Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps retain moisture.

2. Garnish with chopped parsley or extra sautéed peppers and onions.

🔥 Tips for the Best Cheesesteak Meatloaf

• Don’t skip sautéing the veggies: It mellows their flavor and prevents excess moisture in the loaf.

• Use a meat thermometer: It’s the best way to avoid over- or undercooking.

• Let it rest after baking: The juices redistribute and the loaf firms up.

• Cheese in the middle = win: Melty provolone in the center makes every bite rich and creamy.

• Double the cheese topping: If you’re a cheese lover, don’t be shy.

🧀 Cheese Choices: Provolone vs. Cheez Whiz

There’s a never-ending Philly debate: Provolone or Cheez Whiz?

Provolone:

• Mild, melty, and slightly sharp

• Great for layering inside and on top

• Traditional choice in many cheesesteak shops

Cheez Whiz:

• Bold, salty, and creamy

• Adds a nostalgic, indulgent twist

• Best drizzled over the top right before serving

Best of both worlds? Use provolone inside the loaf and Cheez Whiz on top!

🧪 Flavor Variations

Want to customize it? Try these fun spins:

1. Mushroom-Swiss Cheesesteak Meatloaf

2. Spicy Kick

3. Keto or Low Carb

4. Tex-Mex Version

🍽️ What to Serve With Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf

This hearty main dish deserves a few standout sides:

Comfort Classics:

Lighter Options:

Bread Ideas:

🥪 Bonus: Turn It Into a Sandwich!

Leftovers? Pop a slice of meatloaf between two slices of toasted bread or a hoagie roll, drizzle with warm Cheez Whiz or melted provolone, and enjoy the ultimate Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich—no grill required.

🌟 Final Thoughts

This Classic Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf is a love letter to comfort food and regional favorites. It’s bold, hearty, melty, and delicious—a meal that fills the house with savory aromas and fills your plate with flavor. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or try one of the many variations, it’s sure to become a family favorite.

Prep Time
15 minutes

Cook Time
1 hour

Total Time
1 hour 15 minutes

Ingredients

• For the Meatloaf:
• 1 1/2 lbs ground beef (80/20 works great)
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 1 small green bell pepper, finely diced
• 1 small red bell pepper, finely diced (optional, for color)
• 1 cup shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 eggs
• 2 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing veggies)
• For the Topping:
• 4–6 slices provolone cheese
• Optional: extra sautéed peppers and onions

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven:
   Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment.
2. Sauté Veggies:
   Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
   Add diced onions and peppers, cook until softened (5–6 minutes). Let cool slightly.
3. Mix the Meatloaf:
   In a large bowl, combine ground beef, cooled veggies, shredded cheese, breadcrumbs, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
   Mix gently until just combined — don’t overmix!
4. Form & Bake:
   Transfer mixture to loaf pan or shape free-form on a lined baking sheet.
   Bake for 40–45 minutes.
5. Add Cheese & Finish Baking:
   Remove meatloaf and top with provolone slices.
   Return to oven and bake for another 10–15 minutes, or until internal temp hits 160°F (71°C) and cheese is melty.
6. Rest & Serve:
   Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
   Optional: Top with more sautéed peppers/onions or serve on hoagie-style slices of bread for that full cheesesteak vibe.

Notes

Want to add even more flavor? Mix in a little cream cheese (2 oz) with the meat mixture for extra richness.

Make it spicy: Add chopped jalapeños or crushed red pepper.

Ground chicken or turkey also works, but reduce breadcrumbs slightly to avoid dryness.

Serve with roasted potatoes, fries, or even on a hoagie roll for that “sandwich-but-meatloaf” twist.

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