Let me tell you about a recipe that has changed the game in my kitchen- the Easy Cheesy Meat Loaf. A moist, flavorful meatloaf bursting with warm, melted cheese, seasoned perfectly, baked until golden perfection. It’s definitely one of those recipes that makes you feel like a chef and master cook while doing practically no work! Whether you are preparing for dinner on a weeknight or for a simple gathering of friends, this is the recipe you want to have on hand.
What is special about this meatloaf? It is the perfect mix of convenient and indulgence. The meatloaf is made using ground meat mixed with a combination of spices, breadcrumbs, and a special ingredient (teaser: it is Worcestershire sauce) that adds richness to the flavor that is unforgettable. But, the best part is the cheese. We are talking about melted, warm cheese that you don’t know is there until you take a bite of the loaf. It is a warm hug!
I found this recipe while rushing to prepare dinner on a busy week and was looking for something quick and easy but still satisfying. Honestly, I was a tad skeptical. I thought to myself, is it possible that something this easy could be good? One bite later, I was a believer. My family could not say enough. It's been a staple in our dinners ever since.
What I love most about this recipe is the flexibility you have. You can take the base and make it your own—change up the cheese, add a little veggie action, make it gluten-free. It is very forgiving and therefore allows you to get creative. Plus, it's a win-win with picky eaters—it's a terrific way to sneak in extra nutrients!
If you are looking for a dinner option that is easy to put together, bursting with flavor and guaranteed to impress, this Easy Cheesy Meat Loaf is the answer to your search! I can promise you, once you try it, you will wonder how you did without it.
Why You Need to Make This Easy Cheesy Meat Loaf
This Easy Cheesy Meat Loaf is the best in comfort food! Having that tender, delicious meatloaf flavor, melty cheese in every bite, and moist and juicy all over makes for a delicious meal. The LOL (love of life) combination of ground meat, spices, and Worcestershire sauce is heaven on a plate! There is no other flavor combination that can hold a candle to this flavor combination. Hands down this Easy Cheesy Meat Loaf is an easy recipe that you can whip up while you are busy at home after work, or if you need to put something together on the spur of the moment!
I love this specific recipe because of how versatile it is. You can base the meatloaf on either ground beef or ground turkey or use a combination of both. You can swap out the cheese for a cheese of your choosing, and you can add in whatever veggies you choose (such as onions, peppers, or mushrooms) to add flavor or nutrition. This recipe is very adaptable and will maintain its flavor regardless of how you make these changes.
Let’s face it, everybody loves a good meat loaf! It’s a great recipe for a family dinner and a hit for entertaining guests. Great as a main meal, or as leftovers for something different. It’s a hearty meal that is filling. I love serving my Easy Cheesy Meat Loaf with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies and/or with a garden salad!
The leftovers are just as tasty! In fact, this meatloaf (can you even call it meatloaf?) is almost better the next day, so makes for a fantastic meal prep! Slice it for sandwiches or reheat it for a quick, delicious meal.
The Story Behind The Recipe
This Easy Cheesy Meat Loaf makes my heart happy. I was prepping for a meal, dinner was not done, and it was raining, which sent the kids into "chaos mode". I had ground beef in the fridge, some cheese, and a few staples in the pantry. I was curious to see how mixing it all together would turn out, which sounds like a bad challenge, but worked!
It was fantastic! It was moist, delicious, and that cheese made it indulgent and gooey too! My husband took one bite and declared it the best meatloaf he's ever had. The kids (who are notoriously picky) made quick work of theirs as well.
This recipe became a staple in our house from that day forward. We have made it for family dinners, potluck gatherings, and holidays. It is a recipe that brings a group together, and never fails to make people smile.
Why Make This Easy Cheesy Meatloaf
This Easy Cheesy Meatloaf is a favourite for several reasons. First, it is stupid easy to make. With only a few ingredients and a small amount of time, you'll have a tasty home cooked meal ready to go.
Second, it's so flavourful. The combination of meat, spices, and Worcestershire sauce makes such a nice delicious flavour. Plus, the cheese is just the icing on the cake and adds that ooey-gooey goodness to every bite.
Third, it's very adaptable. You can easily add your own twist to match your tastes or dietary restrictions. Use turkey meat for a leaner meatloaf, swap the cheese for your favourite cheese, or add some veggies for extra nutrition.
Last, it's tasty and the people you are cooking for will be impressed. Whether you are cooking for your family or entertaining a group, this easy cheesy meatloaf will feed many people. It's hearty, delicious and whatever you add as sides to your meatloaf will be such a wonderful meal with this meatloaf.
Tips For Easy Cheesy Meat Loaf
Don't overmix the meat. When you overmix meatloaf, it gets very dense. Mix it just until all the ingredients are combined.
Use a meat thermometer. This will allow you to get the meatloaf to the correct internal temperature while not drying it out. out.
Substitutions and Alternatives
Meat : Try ground turkey or chicken instead for a lean alternative.
Cheese : You can easily swap cheddar for mozzarella, pepper jack cheese, or your favorite cheese.
Veggies : Just add in your favorite diced veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added flavors and nutrition just to name a few.
Make a Healthier Version
Use lean ground turkey or chicken.
Swap the crumbs for almond flour or oats to lower your carb intake.
Use low-fat cheese and no ketchup on top.
Conclusion For Easy Cheesy Meat Loaf
And that's a wrap! Let us know how your breakdown goes and please consider checking out other Recipes :
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with our Cheesy Meat Loaf recipe. This savory dish combines juicy ground meat with a melty cheese center, all baked to perfection. A delicious twist on a classic favorite that will have your taste buds singing!
Ingredients
1½ lbs ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
1cup breadcrumbs
1cup shredded cheddar cheese
1small onion, finely chopped
2cloves garlic, minced
1egg
¼ cup milk
2tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp paprika
½ cup ketchup (for topping)
Instructions
1
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, shredded cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix everything together until well combined.
2
Transfer the mixture to a greased loaf pan and shape it into a loaf. Spread the ketchup evenly over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
3
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Serving Size 6
Amount Per Serving
Calories2905.42kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat186.76g288%
Saturated Fat77.8g389%
Cholesterol767.08mg256%
Sodium5931.78mg248%
Potassium3063.41mg88%
Total Carbohydrate132.85g45%
Dietary Fiber7.19g29%
Sugars42.28g
Protein167.78g336%
Vitamin A 2684.97 IU
Vitamin C 16.39 mg
Calcium 1308.53 mg
Iron 22.2 mg
Vitamin D 2.91 mcg
Vitamin E 6.36 mg
Vitamin K 29.28 mcg
Thiamin 1.51 mg
Riboflavin 2.5 mg
Niacin 38.28 mg
Vitamin B6 2.89 mg
Folate 235.33 mcg
Vitamin B12 16.86 mcg
Pantothenic Acid 5.6 mg
Phosphorus 2005.75 mg
Magnesium 237.55 mg
Zinc 35.5 mg
Selenium 178.26 mcg
Copper 1 mg
Manganese 1.55 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
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Emma
Food and Lifestyle Blogger
Hello! I’m Emma, the food lover and home chef behind Cuts Food. My passion for cooking started with simple, hearty meals shared around the family table. At Cuts Food, I bring you tried-and-true recipes, kitchen tips, and a love for flavors that inspire.