This meatloaf sandwich is the perfect mix of hearty and comforting. With juicy meatloaf piled between soft bread and topped with your favorite sauces, it’s a treat!
Honestly, who doesn’t love meatloaf? It’s like a hug in sandwich form! I enjoy adding a slice of cheese on top and a bit of ketchup for extra flavor. So good! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I usually go for a mix of beef and pork for more flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey works great too! Just remember, it might need a bit more seasoning.
Breadcrumbs: These help bind the mixture together. You can use plain, seasoned, or even crushed crackers. Gluten-free breadcrumbs are a tasty substitute if you’re avoiding gluten.
Mushrooms: Adding mushrooms is optional, but they really boost the flavor and keep the meatloaf moist. If you’re not a fan, you can leave them out or replace them with finely diced bell peppers.
Cheese: I love mozzarella for its melty goodness. Provolone is another yummy choice. If you have a dairy-free diet, try a plant-based cheese—it usually melts well too!
How Do You Keep Your Meatloaf Moist?
To prevent dry meatloaf, focus on a few techniques. First, don’t over-mix the meat mixture; just combine until it’s blended. This helps keep it tender. Also, adding moisture through milk, eggs, and even veggies like onions or mushrooms helps keep it juicy.
- Rest the meatloaf before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute.
- Try adding a little more milk or ketchup into the mixture for additional moisture.
Lastly, make sure to monitor the cooking time and temperature—overcooking can lead to dryness!
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 breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup finely chopped mushrooms (optional, adds moisture and flavor)
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme or fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sandwich:
- 4 slices of thick bread (Texas toast or sourdough works well)
- 4 slices mozzarella or provolone cheese
- 2 tbsp butter (for toasting the bread)
- 1/4 cup cooked tomato-based sauce or chunky ketchup (can also use diced roasted tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes for preparation and 50 minutes for baking. After that, you’ll need another 10 minutes for resting the meatloaf and a quick toast of the sandwiches, making a total of about 1 hour and 15 minutes. It’s simple, easy and so worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is important to ensure your meatloaf cooks evenly!
2. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:
In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, mushrooms (if using), egg, minced garlic, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix gently until everything is just combined—avoid over-mixing to keep it tender!
3. Shape and Bake the Meatloaf:
Form the meat mixture into a loaf shape and place it into a baking dish or loaf pan lined with parchment paper. Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
4. Cool and Slice:
Once it’s done cooking, carefully remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This rest allows the juices to settle so it stays nice and juicy when you cut it! Slice it into thick pieces that will fit your bread.
5. Toast the Bread:
Butter one side of each slice of bread. Heat a skillet over medium heat and toast the bread, butter-side down, until it turns golden and crispy. This adds a lovely crunch to your sandwich!
6. Assemble the Sandwiches:
On the non-buttered side of two slices of bread, layer a slice of the meatloaf. Spoon some of the cooked tomato sauce or chunky ketchup over the meatloaf, then top with a slice of cheese.
7. Cook the Sandwich:
Top with the other two slices of bread, buttered side up. Press down gently and cook until the cheese melts and the bread is golden brown, flipping once if needed. You may need to lower the heat slightly to ensure the cheese melts without burning the bread.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the sandwiches from the skillet, slice them in half, and serve warm. Enjoy the savory, juicy meatloaf combined with melted cheese and tangy sauce nestled between crispy toasted bread—an ultimate comfort sandwich ready to delight your taste buds!
Can I Use Leftover Meatloaf for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Using leftover meatloaf is a fantastic way to create this sandwich. Just slice it and follow the same assembly instructions, heating it in the skillet until warmed through and the cheese is melted.
How Can I Make This Sandwich Healthier?
To make a healthier version, consider using lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, and whole-grain bread instead of white or sourdough. You can also add more veggies into the meatloaf mix, like diced bell peppers or spinach, for added nutrients.
Can I Freeze the Meatloaf Before Cooking?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked meatloaf! Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. When you’re ready to cook, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as directed. This saves time on busy days!
How to Store Leftover Sandwiches?
To store any leftovers, wrap the sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap or foil and keep them in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave before eating to enjoy them warm!