This Cheddar-Stuffed Meatloaf is a tasty twist on a classic favorite! With gooey cheese hidden inside, it takes the comfort food experience up a notch. Yum!
Whenever I make this, the cheesy surprise brings a smile to everyone’s face. It’s like a party in each slice! Pair it with some mashed potatoes for a cozy meal. 🥔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I use 80% lean ground beef for the ideal balance of flavor and moisture. You could swap it with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, but the flavor will be different.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a tangy kick. If you’re looking for a milder taste, you can use medium cheddar. For a unique twist, consider pepper jack for some heat, or even mozzarella for a different melting quality.
Breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs work great, but you can use panko for a crunchier texture. If you’re gluten-free, crushed rice crackers or gluten-free breadcrumbs are perfect substitutes.
Onion and Garlic: Fresh onion and garlic add depth to the flavor. If you’re short on time, onion powder and garlic powder can be used instead, though I recommend using fresh for the best taste!
How Can I Achieve the Perfect Meatloaf Texture?
Getting the right texture in meatloaf is key! Here are some tips:
- Mix gently to avoid overworking the meat, which can make it tough. Just mix until everything is combined.
- Let it rest after mixing to allow the breadcrumbs to absorb moisture before rolling it out.
- Ensure to seal the edges tightly when rolling to keep that cheesy center intact as it cooks.
- Using a baking rack allows fat to drain away, helping to keep the meatloaf from becoming soggy.
Following these tips will help ensure your meatloaf is juicy and holds its shape perfectly, bursting with cheesy goodness inside! Enjoy!
Cheddar-Stuffed Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 2 pounds ground beef (preferably 80% lean)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
How Much Time Will You Need?
This savory dish will take you about 15 minutes to prep, and then around 60-75 minutes to bake. Total time is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours from start to finish, including resting time. Perfect for a family dinner or meal prep!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s nice and hot when the meatloaf is ready. Line a baking tray with foil or prepare a rack inside a baking pan to catch those juices!
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, eggs, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, parsley, thyme, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix gently until well combined—don’t overwork the meat, or your meatloaf might be tough!
3. Prepare the Meat Mixture:
On a clean work surface, shape the meat mixture into a rectangle about 9×12 inches. Make sure it’s thick enough to hold the cheesy surprise!
4. Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly over the meat rectangle, but leave about an inch of space around the edges to prevent the cheese from spilling out.
5. Roll It Up:
Now comes the fun part! Starting from one long side, carefully roll the meat mixture like a jelly roll. Pinch the seams and edges to seal in all that cheesy goodness inside. You want to keep that cheese where it belongs!
6. Prepare for Baking:
Place the rolled meatloaf seam side down on your prepared baking rack or foil-lined pan. It’s now time to make it look pretty!
7. Glaze the Meatloaf:
Spread a thin layer of ketchup over the top of the meatloaf. This will help it to brown nicely while adding a sweet tangy flavor!
8. Bake It:
Pop your meatloaf into the oven and bake for 60-75 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check that it’s reached 160°F (71°C) in the center to ensure it’s fully cooked.
9. Final Touches:
In the last 5 minutes of baking, feel free to sprinkle a little extra cheddar or parsley on top for a lovely finish.
10. Rest Before Serving:
Once baked, take the meatloaf out of the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. This step is super important—it allows the juices to settle, making for slices that are juicy and delicious!
11. Slice and Serve:
Finally, slice your cheddar-stuffed meatloaf and serve it hot! Garnish with a sprinkle of dried parsley if you’d like. Enjoy with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes or veggies!
Dig in and enjoy your cheesy, juicy meatloaf experience! 🍽️
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for beef! Just keep in mind that turkey can be a bit drier, so consider adding a little more milk or an extra egg to help retain moisture.
How Do I Store Leftover Meatloaf?
Leftover meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap before freezing.
What Can I Use Instead of Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have breadcrumbs on hand, you can use crushed crackers, oatmeal, or even cooked rice as a substitute. Each option will slightly change the texture but should still work well!
Can I Add Vegetables to the Meatloaf?
Absolutely! Finely chopped bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms can be a delicious addition. Just make sure to stick to about 1 cup of veggies so that the meatloaf maintains its structure.