Description
Classic meatloaf recipe with a cheesy twist featuring a juicy ground beef base topped generously with sharp melted cheddar cheese, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
- 3/4 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if preferred)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)
- 1/4 cup milk
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 to 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded or sliced
Instructions
- Prepare Your Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Finely chop the onion and garlic, shred or slice your cheddar cheese, and gather all other ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking process.
- Mix the Meatloaf Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, chopped onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, milk, salt, and pepper. Mix gently using your hands or a spoon until just combined to keep the meatloaf tender.
- Shape the Meatloaf: Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan or shape it by hand on a lined baking sheet into a neat 9×5-inch loaf. Press gently so everything holds together but avoid compacting too much.
- Add Ketchup and Cheese Topping: Spread a thin layer of ketchup over the top of the loaf to lock in moisture and add tanginess. Then cover the loaf generously with shredded or sliced cheddar cheese, ensuring edges are well coated so the cheese melts evenly.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 60 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). The cheese on top should be bubbly and golden.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps retain juices and keeps each slice moist and intact.
Notes
- Don’t overmix the meat mixture to avoid a dense, tough meatloaf.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf is cooked perfectly without drying out.
- Rest the meatloaf after baking to redistribute juices and keep slices moist.
- Choose sharp cheddar for best melting and bold flavor.
- Add a little milk to the mixture to keep the meatloaf tender.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 150g)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg
Keywords: meatloaf, cheddar cheese, comfort food, ground beef, cheesy meatloaf, easy dinner, gluten free meatloaf
