This Cheddar-Stuffed Meatloaf is a tasty twist on a classic dish. It’s filled with gooey cheddar cheese that melts perfectly as it bakes, making every slice a delightful surprise!
Honestly, who can resist that cheesy goodness hiding inside? I like to serve it with some simple mashed potatoes and a side of veggies. It feels like a cozy hug on a plate! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80% lean ground beef for a good balance of flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey or chicken can work, but keep in mind they may need extra moisture.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a great flavor. If you want something milder, try using medium cheddar. For a twist, you can also use pepper jack for a little spice or a plant-based cheese if you’re vegan.
Breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs work great, but you can use panko for a crunchier texture. If gluten-free is a concern, there are gluten-free bread options to consider as well.
Onion and Garlic: Fresh onion and garlic enhance the flavor, but in a pinch, you can use onion powder and garlic powder instead. Just keep the amounts smaller since they’re more concentrated.
What’s the Best Way to Ensure My Meatloaf Stays Moist?
Moisture is key for a delicious meatloaf! Start with these tips:
- Mix your ingredients gently; overmixing can lead to a dense loaf.
- The milk helps add moisture. You can also add a bit of beef broth or even barbecue sauce.
- Sealing the cheese inside keeps it moist and adds flavor that seeps into the meat.
- Letting it rest for about 10 minutes after baking allows juices to redistribute, keeping every slice tender.
Cheddar-Stuffed Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 lbs ground beef (preferably 80% lean)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried parsley (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup ketchup or tomato sauce (for topping)
- Optional: 1 tbsp brown sugar or honey (for a sweeter glaze)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious Cheddar-Stuffed Meatloaf takes about 15 minutes to prepare, and then it bakes for 60-75 minutes. So, in total, set aside about 1.5 to 2 hours for cooking and resting time. Perfect for a cozy dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or you can prepare a baking tray with a rack to help with even cooking.
2. Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, salt, black pepper, paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and dried parsley. Use your hands or a spatula to mix everything until just combined—be careful not to overmix, or the meatloaf can become tough.
3. Shape the Meatloaf:
Divide the meat mixture into two equal halves. Shape one half into a loaf and place it on your baking pan or rack that you prepared earlier.
4. Add the Cheese:
Spread the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the meatloaf base you’ve created, but leave a small border around the edges so the cheese doesn’t spill out during cooking.
5. Cover the Cheese Layer:
Take the other half of the meat mixture and carefully cover the cheese layer. Make sure to seal the edges well by pinching the meat together to prevent any cheese from escaping while it bakes.
6. Add a Topping:
Spread the ketchup or tomato sauce evenly over the top of the meatloaf to keep it moist and tasty. For a sweeter touch, you can mix in a bit of brown sugar or honey with the ketchup before spreading it on.
7. Bake the Meatloaf:
Pop your meatloaf into the preheated oven and bake for about 60-75 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). If the top starts to brown too much, you can cover it loosely with foil.
8. Let It Rest:
Once baked, carefully remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute and makes slicing easier.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the meatloaf and serve warm. Don’t forget to sprinkle some extra parsley on top for a pop of color and a little extra flavor. Enjoy the gooey cheddar surprise hidden inside each slice!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a mix of meats. Just ensure to adjust seasonings as needed, since different meats have different flavors.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, slice the portions you want and warm them in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Can I Freeze the Meatloaf?
Yes! You can freeze the meatloaf either cooked or uncooked. If freezing uncooked, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking. If cooked, cool completely before wrapping and freezing for up to 3 months. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven or microwave.
What Can I Serve with Cheddar-Stuffed Meatloaf?
This meatloaf pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with crusty bread or on a bun for a delicious meatloaf sandwich!