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Cheesy Beef Meatloaf

Cheesy Beef Meatloaf

This Cheesy Beef Meatloaf is a warm, comforting dish featuring juicy ground beef filled with melted cheese, creating a perfect balance of savory richness and gooey texture. Easy to prepare and family-approved, it’s versatile for weekday dinners or weekend feasts, and can be customized with various cheese types, meats, and add-ins.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for juiciness and flavor)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
  • 3/4 cup bread crumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
  • 1/3 cup ketchup or tomato sauce

Instructions

  1. Prepare the ingredients: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Finely chop the onion and garlic, grate or slice your chosen cheese, and have all ingredients ready to streamline the cooking process.
  2. Mix the meatloaf base: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, bread crumbs, eggs, chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix gently but thoroughly, avoiding overworking the meat to keep it tender.
  3. Shape and fill the meatloaf: Place half of the meat mixture into a loaf pan or shape a loaf on a baking sheet. Add a generous layer of cheese in the center, then cover with the remaining meat mixture, sealing the edges to enclose the cheese.
  4. Add the glaze: Spread ketchup or tomato sauce evenly over the top of the meatloaf. This glaze will caramelize during baking for a sweet, tangy finish.
  5. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute and cheese to set.

Notes

  • Use room temperature ingredients for better mixture consistency and even cooking.
  • Don’t skip resting time to prevent cheese from oozing and to maintain slice integrity.
  • Choose cheeses that melt well, such as mozzarella or cheddar, to keep the gooey center.
  • Check doneness with a meat thermometer to ensure perfect cooking and safety.
  • Add a little milk or broth if the mixture feels dry to improve moisture.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheesy beef meatloaf, comfort food, ground beef recipe, baked meatloaf, melted cheese, family dinner