Get ready for a comforting and delicious homemade meatloaf with a cheesy twist! This easy recipe combines ground beef and savory seasonings with melted cheese. It’s a dish that’s perfect for any cheese lover’s dinner.
This meatloaf is packed with 2 pounds of 80% lean ground beef. It’s filled with 6 ounces of shredded Havarti cheese. The result is a cheese-filled meatloaf that will satisfy your comfort food cravings.
Key Takeaways
- Easy-to-make homemade meatloaf recipe with a cheesy twist
- Combines classic meatloaf flavors with melted Havarti cheese
- Requires only 5 minutes of prep time and 1 hour 20 minutes of cook time
- Serves 6 people with 408 calories, 23g fat, 18g carbs, and 30g protein per serving
- Ideal comfort food dinner recipe that’s perfect for cheese lovers
The Ultimate Guide to Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bread
Meatloaf has been a favorite for generations. It has evolved to include a tasty twist – cheese-filled meatloaf. This dish combines the savory taste of traditional classic meatloaf recipe with the gooey cheese, making it a hit for your taste buds.
History of Classic Meatloaf
The early 19th century saw the start of meatloaf, thanks to clever housewives. Over time, it grew, with different cultures adding their own twist. Today’s classic meatloaf is a mix of ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, and spices, baked to perfection.
Why Adding Cheese Makes It Better
Adding cheese to meatloaf was a brilliant idea. It not only boosts the flavor but also adds a nice texture. The cheese inside creates a tasty surprise with every bite. Whether it’s mozzarella, cheddar, or a mix, cheese elevates this family favorite dinner to new heights.
Modern Twist on Traditional Recipe
Recently, the cheese-filled meatloaf recipe has seen a modern makeover. Chefs and home cooks have tried various cheeses, from cheddar to Brie. They’ve also added exotic spices and herbs, making it even more flavorful.
If you want to wow your guests or enjoy a cozy meal, cheese-filled meatloaf is perfect. Its rich history, delicious taste, and versatility make it a new favorite in your home.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Results
To make the perfect stuffed meatloaf, you need the right mix of ingredients. Ground beef, with 80-90% lean, is the base. It gives the meat its flavor and keeps it moist. Eggs and breadcrumbs or oats help hold everything together.
Other ingredients add to the taste. Milk makes it creamy, while ketchup and spices like parsley and oregano give it depth. Garlic powder, salt, and pepper add flavor. Diced onions add sweetness and a nice smell.
The cheese inside is a key part. You can use cheddar, mozzarella, or Havarti. These cheeses melt beautifully, making the meatloaf extra tasty.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground Beef (80-90% lean) | 1.5-2 lbs |
| Eggs | 2 |
| Breadcrumbs or Oats | 1 cup |
| Milk | 1/4 cup |
| Ketchup | 1/4 cup |
| Onion, diced | 1 medium |
| Parsley, basil, oregano, garlic powder, salt, pepper | To taste |
| Cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, Havarti) | 8 oz |
With these ingredients, you’re ready to make a delicious stuffed meatloaf. It’s sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed
To make the perfect cheesy stuffed meatloaf bread, you’ll need some key tools. First, a meatloaf pan is a must. The USA Pan Nonstick Loaf Pan is great for even baking and easy cleaning. You’ll also need a baking sheet to catch drippings and a mixing bowl for mixing ingredients.
Recommended Loaf Pan Types
A 9×5 inch loaf pan is the best size for this recipe. Its narrow shape makes a tall, sturdy loaf that’s easy to slice. A nonstick coating makes cleaning up a breeze.
Optional Cooking Accessories
- Stand mixer with paddle attachment – This makes mixing the meatloaf batter easy, especially with the cheese filling.
- Meat thermometer – It’s important to ensure your meatloaf reaches 165°F for safety and doneness.
- Parchment paper or aluminum foil – These can make cleaning up the loaf pan even easier.
| Tool or Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| 9×5 inch Loaf Pan | Baking the meatloaf in the ideal shape and size |
| Baking Sheet | Catching any drippings and juices during baking |
| Mixing Bowl | Combining the meatloaf ingredients before baking |
| Stand Mixer (optional) | Easily mixing the meatloaf batter and cheese filling |
| Meat Thermometer (optional) | Ensuring the meatloaf reaches the proper internal temperature |
| Parchment Paper or Foil (optional) | Lining the loaf pan for easier cleanup |
With these tools and equipment, you’re ready to make a delicious cheesy stuffed meatloaf bread.
Meat Selection and Preparation Tips
Choosing the right meat is key to making a great cheesy stuffed meatloaf. Go for 80% lean ground beef. This mix of lean to fat makes it juicy and tender, without being greasy.
Adding ground beef and ground pork together can make the meatloaf even tastier. This blend brings out more flavors. Just make sure to mix everything well, but don’t overdo it. Overmixing can make the meat tough.
- Use 80% lean ground beef for optimal flavor and texture.
- Incorporate a blend of ground beef and ground pork for added depth of flavor.
- Mix the meats with other ingredients thoroughly, but avoid overmixing to maintain tenderness.
“The secret to a perfectly juicy and flavorful meatloaf lies in the careful selection and preparation of the meats.”
By following these tips, you’ll make a cheesy stuffed meatloaf that will wow everyone. It’s a dish that’s sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
Cheese Options and Combinations
Creating the perfect cheesy stuffed meatloaf is all about the cheese. You want cheeses that melt well and match the meatloaf’s flavors. Let’s look at some top cheeses and how to pair them for a delicious dish.
Best Melting Cheeses
For a cheesy filling that’s both gooey and tasty, choose mozzarella, cheddar, or Havarti. These cheeses melt well because they have a lot of fat and melt easily. Other cheeses like gouda, Swiss, Colby, and Monterey Jack also melt great.
Flavor Pairing Suggestions
Mozzarella cheese is classic and mild, perfect with meatloaf. For a bolder taste, cheddar cheese is great. It adds a sharp, tangy flavor. If you want something creamy, Havarti is your go-to.
For the right cheese-to-meat balance, use 1.5-2 cups of shredded cheese. This way, every bite of meatloaf is full of cheesy flavor.
“The key to a truly exceptional cheesy stuffed meatloaf is finding the perfect balance of melted, gooey cheese and savory, tender meat.”
Step-by-Step Mixing Instructions
Making the perfect cheesy stuffed meatloaf bread begins with mixing the right way. First, get all the ingredients ready. You’ll need ground meat, onion, eggs, breadcrumbs or oats, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and spices. Mix these in a big bowl or stand mixer until they just come together.
Don’t overmix, as it can make the meatloaf tough and dense. It’s key to mix gently.
After mixing, it’s time to layer. Split the mixture in two. Press one half into a loaf pan to make the base. Make a well in the center of the base, leaving room for the cheese.
Then, add your favorite cheese, like cheddar or mozzarella, into the well. This will melt beautifully during baking.
Now, cover the cheese with the other half of the meatloaf mixture. Press and smooth the top to seal in the cheese. This step is important to keep the cheese inside while baking.
- Combine ground meat, onion, eggs, breadcrumbs/oats, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and spices in a large bowl or stand mixer.
- Mix the meatloaf mixture until just combined, avoiding over-mixing.
- Divide the mixture in half and press one portion into a loaf pan to create the base.
- Form a well or cavity in the center of the base layer.
- Fill the well with your preferred melting cheese.
- Cover the cheese with the remaining meatloaf mixture, sealing the edges to prevent leakage.
Follow these steps to make a delicious cheesy stuffed meatloaf bread. It’s sure to delight your family and friends.
Secret Tips for Perfect Stuffing Technique
To make the ultimate cheesy stuffed meatloaf, follow a few key steps. First, make a 5-inch long, 1-inch wide well in the meatloaf mixture. Leave a 1/2-inch wall on each side. This well is where you’ll put your shredded cheese.
After making the cheese well, seal it with the reserved meat mixture. This is key to stop cheese from leaking during baking. By sealing it, you keep the cheese inside and avoid a messy bake.
Creating the Perfect Cheese Well
To make the cheese well, split your meatloaf mixture in half. Press one half into a loaf pan, making a shallow well in the center. Put your shredded cheese well in this well, then cover it with the other meatloaf mixture. Seal the edges well to keep the cheese inside. This way, every slice will have a cheesy surprise.
| Recommended Cooking Temperature | Recommended Cooking Time |
|---|---|
| 350°F in an oven | 2-2.5 hours |
| 275°F in a smoker | 2-2.5 hours |
Mastering this stuffed meatloaf technique will take your meatloaf to new heights. Enjoy the melted, cheesy goodness in every bite!
Cooking Times and Temperature Guide
Getting the right texture and doneness for your cheesy stuffed meatloaf bread is key. To make sure it’s delicious, follow these baking time and internal temperature tips.
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the meatloaf for about 60 minutes. This lets the flavors mix and the cheese melt.
After 60 minutes, turn the oven to 400°F (200°C) for the last 10 minutes. This step makes the outside crispy and the inside juicy.
To check if it’s done, use a meat thermometer. Make sure the meatloaf’s internal temperature is 165°F (74°C). This ensures the beef is cooked and the cheese is melted.
Let the meatloaf rest for 15 minutes before slicing. This step helps the juices spread evenly, making it even more delicious.
| Step | Temperature | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Preheat Oven | 350°F (175°C) | – |
| Initial Baking | 350°F (175°C) | 60 minutes |
| Final Baking | 400°F (200°C) | 10 minutes |
| Internal Temperature | 165°F (74°C) | – |
| Resting Time | – | 15 minutes |
By sticking to these cooking times and temperatures, your cheesy stuffed meatloaf bread will be perfect. It will be a hit at your next meal.
Glazing Options and Techniques
The classic meatloaf glaze is often made with ketchup topping. This glaze brings a sweet and tangy taste to your Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bread. To make it, mix 1/2 cup of ketchup, 1.5 tablespoons of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar, 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.
Want to try something different? There are many alternative glaze variations to try. A tangy barbecue sauce glaze adds a smoky-sweet taste. A mustard-based topping brings a zesty and bold flavor.
Apply your glaze after the meatloaf has baked for 60 minutes. This lets the meatloaf set and the glaze caramelize. It creates a delicious crust that everyone will love.
“The secret to a truly outstanding meatloaf lies in the finishing touch – the glaze. It’s the perfect way to add that extra layer of flavor and texture that takes it from good to great.”
So, whether you choose the classic ketchup topping or try something new, the most important thing is to have fun. Experiment and find the glaze that you love the most. It should match the flavors of your Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bread perfectly.
Storage and Reheating Methods
Your cheesy stuffed meatloaf is a hit with your family. You can enjoy leftovers for days with the right storage and reheating. Here’s how to keep your meatloaf fresh and even freeze it for later.
Storing Leftover Meatloaf
Keep leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze sliced meatloaf for up to 6 months. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap or foil to avoid freezer burn.
Reheating Meatloaf
Ready to enjoy your meatloaf again? There are easy ways to reheat it. To reheat in the oven, set it to 250°F and bake for 25-30 minutes. For quicker reheating, microwave slices for 1-2 minutes.
Make-Ahead Tips
Save time by preparing the meatloaf mixture and cheese a day early. Refrigerate the uncooked, stuffed meatloaf until baking day. This way, you get hot, fresh meatloaf without extra work.
“Meatloaf is the ultimate comfort food, and with these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy it for days or even freeze it for future meals.”
Follow these tips to enjoy your cheesy stuffed meatloaf for longer. Whether reheating a slice or making it ahead, these methods ensure you get the most from your leftovers.
Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes
Make your cheesy stuffed meatloaf even better by adding the right meatloaf sides. Try creamy mashed potatoes or roasted veggies. A fresh salad adds a nice crunch.
Turn leftover meatloaf into a tasty sandwich. Use your favorite bread and add green beans, corn, or broccoli. Top it with parsley or thyme for extra flavor.
- Mashed potatoes: Creamy and comforting, mashed potatoes are a classic pairing for meatloaf.
- Roasted vegetables: Roast up a medley of carrots, Brussels sprouts, and zucchini for a vibrant and healthy side dish.
- Side salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the rich meatloaf.
“The flavor of the carrots as a side dish was considered amazing by a guest.”
Try stuffing your meatloaf with different fillings like cheese, spinach, mushrooms, or peppers. This way, you can make a complete meal around your cheesy stuffed meatloaf.
Conclusion
This cheesy stuffed meatloaf recipe is a tasty twist on a classic. It’s easy to make and lets you add your favorite ingredients. It’s perfect for family dinners and even the pickiest eaters will love it.
Whether you use beef and pork or try something different, the secret is in the cheese and spices. You can make it your own with your favorite fillings.
The aroma and taste of this meatloaf are amazing. It’s a dish that will quickly become a favorite in your home. Try it out and see how it can make your family dinners special.
Ready to make this cheesy stuffed meatloaf? It’s great for big gatherings or meal prep. This recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
FAQ
What are the key ingredients for making the cheesy stuffed meatloaf?
To make the cheesy stuffed meatloaf, you’ll need 1.5-2 lbs of lean ground beef. Also, eggs, breadcrumbs or oats, milk, ketchup, and onion are essential. Don’t forget the spices like parsley, basil, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. You can use cheddar, mozzarella, or Havarti cheese.
What kitchen tools and equipment are needed to make the perfect cheesy stuffed meatloaf?
You’ll need a 9×5 inch loaf pan, a baking sheet, and a mixing bowl. The USA Pan Nonstick Loaf Pan is a good choice. You’ll also need foil for easy cleanup. A stand mixer with a paddle attachment can make mixing easier.
How do you properly prepare the ground meat mixture for the cheesy stuffed meatloaf?
Start by mixing the ground beef, ground pork, onion, eggs, breadcrumbs/oats, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and spices in a large bowl or stand mixer. Mix until just combined. This helps keep the meatloaf tender.
What is the secret to creating the perfect cheese stuffing for the meatloaf?
To make the perfect cheese stuffing, create a 5-inch long, 1-inch wide well in the meatloaf mixture. Fill it with 1.5-2 cups of shredded cheese. Then, seal the cheese with the reserved meat mixture to prevent leakage.
What are the recommended cooking times and temperatures for the cheesy stuffed meatloaf?
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the meatloaf for 60 minutes. Then, increase the temperature to 400°F (200°C) for the last 10 minutes after applying the glaze. The meatloaf should reach 165°F (74°C) for it to be fully cooked.
What are the best glazing options for the cheesy stuffed meatloaf?
For a classic glaze, mix 1/2 cup of ketchup, 1.5 tablespoons of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar, 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. You can also use barbecue sauce or a mustard-based topping as a glaze.
How should the cheesy stuffed meatloaf be stored and reheated?
Store leftover cheesy stuffed meatloaf in the fridge for up to 4 days. Freeze it by slicing the meatloaf for easy meals later. Reheat the slices in the oven or microwave.
What are some tasty side dish options to serve with the cheesy stuffed meatloaf?
Serve the cheesy stuffed meatloaf with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. It’s also great in sandwiches. For a complete meal, try it with green beans, corn, or broccoli.