When it comes to comfort food, few dishes are as satisfying as a classic meatloaf. But if you’re looking to elevate this beloved dish with an extra layer of flavor, our Easy Cheese Meatloaf is the way to go. With a delicious, melty cheese center, this meatloaf is both hearty and indulgent. Whether it’s for a cozy family dinner or a weekend meal, this cheesy twist on a traditional favorite will quickly become a go-to in your recipe collection. The rich cheese adds moisture and depth, turning a simple meatloaf into something extraordinary.

The beauty of this Easy Cheese Meatloaf lies in how easy it is to make. You only need a few ingredients to transform the ordinary into something extraordinary. Ground beef, breadcrumbs, and seasonings come together with a gooey cheese filling in the middle, ensuring that every slice of meatloaf is bursting with cheesy goodness. Whether you choose to use cheddar, mozzarella, or a combination of both, the cheese adds a wonderful texture and flavor that balances the savory meat.

Perfect for any occasion, this Easy Cheese Meatloaf is a crowd-pleaser that satisfies even the pickiest eaters. The cheese keeps the meatloaf moist, while the crust forms a satisfying, slightly crispy exterior. Serve it with mashed potatoes, a side of vegetables, or your favorite sauce, and you’ve got a complete meal that’s as comforting as it is delicious.

Why Easy Cheese Meatloaf?

Selling Points:

• Cheesy and Comforting: The melted cheese filling makes every bite extra rich and flavorful.
• Simple to Make: With just a few basic ingredients, you can easily whip up this delicious dish in no time.
• Great for Family Meals: A perfect weeknight dinner that the whole family will love, especially when served with sides like mashed potatoes or roasted veggies.
• Moist and Flavorful: The cheese keeps the meatloaf moist while adding extra depth of flavor.

What You Need for Easy Cheese Meatloaf

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for a balance of flavor and moisture)
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use panko for extra crunch, or regular for softness)
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a combination)
• 2 tbsp ketchup (optional, for topping)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for greasing the pan)

How to Make Easy Cheese Meatloaf

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
   
2. Make the Meatloaf Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well using your hands or a spoon until the ingredients are fully incorporated.
   
3. Add the Cheese Filling: Divide the meat mixture in half. Press half of the mixture into the prepared loaf pan, making sure to spread it evenly across the bottom. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the meat, creating a cheese layer in the center. Then, top with the remaining meat mixture, pressing it down gently to seal the cheese inside.
   
4. Bake the Meatloaf: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F). If you like, spread a thin layer of ketchup over the top of the meatloaf for a glossy finish and bake for an additional 5 minutes.
   
5. Let it Rest and Serve: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful meatloaf. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy!
   

Tips for the Perfect Cheese Meatloaf

• Use Lean Ground Beef: For a leaner meatloaf, opt for 90% lean ground beef. However, fattier beef, like 80/20, helps keep the meatloaf moist and flavorful.
• Add Extra Seasonings: Feel free to add additional spices like Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, or even a dash of hot sauce for extra flavor.
• Try Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses such as provolone, Swiss, or pepper jack for varied flavors.
• Rest the Meatloaf: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes after baking to prevent it from falling apart when slicing.

Substitutions and Variations

• Ground Turkey or Chicken: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of this dish.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats in place of regular breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the meat with a combination of lentils and finely chopped vegetables for a vegetarian meatloaf alternative. You can also use plant-based ground meat for a fully vegan version.

Make a Healthier Version

• Lower the Fat: Choose leaner ground beef or use ground turkey or chicken for a healthier meatloaf option.
• Use Low-Fat Cheese: For a lighter version, use low-fat cheese or reduce the amount of cheese to your preference.
• Add Veggies: Add finely chopped vegetables like onions, bell peppers, or carrots to the meat mixture to increase the nutritional value and add flavor.

Closing for Easy Cheese Meatloaf

This Easy Cheese Meatloaf is a delicious and comforting dish that brings together the savory goodness of meatloaf with the irresistible flavor of melted cheese. Whether you’re serving it to your family on a weeknight or bringing it to a potluck, this meatloaf is sure to please everyone. With its moist texture, flavorful seasoning, and cheesy filling, it’s a simple yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. So next time you’re craving a hearty, cheesy dinner, this Easy Cheese Meatloaf will be your go-to recipe.

Frequently Asked Questions for Easy Cheese Meatloaf

1. Can I use a different type of ground meat?
   Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even pork instead of ground beef for a different flavor profile.
   
2. Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also freeze the unbaked meatloaf for later use.
   
3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
   Yes, simply swap the regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats to make the meatloaf gluten-free.
   
4. What can I serve with Easy Cheese Meatloaf?
   This meatloaf pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, green beans, or a simple salad.
   
5. Can I use shredded cheese instead of block cheese?
   Yes, shredded cheese works perfectly in this recipe and is easier to melt within the meatloaf.
   
6. How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
   The meatloaf is done when the internal temperature reaches 160°F. You can use a meat thermometer to check.
   
7. Can I add more cheese?
   Absolutely! Feel free to add more cheese inside the meatloaf or sprinkle some on top before baking for an extra cheesy finish.
   
8. Can I use a different topping instead of ketchup?
   Yes, you can top the meatloaf with BBQ sauce, a balsamic glaze, or even a cheese sauce for a different twist.
   
9. Can I make this meatloaf without cheese?
   Yes, you can make a traditional meatloaf without the cheese filling. It will still be delicious with the seasonings and textures.
   
10. How do I store leftovers?
    Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze slices for up to 3 months.
    

This Easy Cheese Meatloaf is a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The cheesy filling adds an irresistible twist to a classic favorite, making it a hit at the dinner table. Simple to make and full of flavor, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again. So, next time you’re craving something hearty and cheesy, give this Easy Cheese Meatloaf a try—you won’t be disappointed!

Easy Cheese Meatloaf

Recipe by Alexandra SaricolCourse: All Recipes

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for a balance of flavor and moisture)

• 1 egg

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use panko for extra crunch, or regular for softness)

• 1/4 cup milk

• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tsp salt

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

• 1/2 tsp onion powder

• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a combination)

• 2 tbsp ketchup (optional, for topping)

• 1 tbsp olive oil (for greasing the pan)

Directions

• Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
• Make the Meatloaf Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well using your hands or a spoon until the ingredients are fully incorporated.
• Add the Cheese Filling: Divide the meat mixture in half. Press half of the mixture into the prepared loaf pan, making sure to spread it evenly across the bottom. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the meat, creating a cheese layer in the center. Then, top with the remaining meat mixture, pressing it down gently to seal the cheese inside.
• Bake the Meatloaf: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F). If you like, spread a thin layer of ketchup over the top of the meatloaf for a glossy finish and bake for an additional 5 minutes.
• Let it Rest and Serve: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful meatloaf. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy!