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meatloaf covered in cheddar cheese

meatloaf covered in cheddar cheese
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A warm, hearty, and comforting meatloaf recipe featuring juicy ground beef blended with flavorful seasonings and topped with melted sharp cheddar cheese. Perfect for family dinners and easy to customize or make ahead.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for best moisture balance)
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup ketchup or tomato sauce
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Optional Variations

  • Lean ground turkey or chicken (as a substitute for beef)
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach
  • 1–2 chopped jalapeños or 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper for spice
  • Different cheese options: pepper jack, mozzarella, smoked gouda
  • Gluten-free breadcrumbs like almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Mix: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, finely chopped onions, minced garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix gently with your hands until just combined, avoiding overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
  2. Shape the Meatloaf: Transfer the mixture to a lined loaf pan or shape it gently by hand into a loaf on a baking sheet, ensuring an even shape for consistent cooking.
  3. Bake the Meatloaf: Place the meatloaf in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 45 minutes to cook through.
  4. Add the Cheddar Cheese Layer: Remove the meatloaf carefully from the oven and sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese on top. Return it to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese melts and starts to brown slightly.
  5. Let it Rest: Once baked, allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing to help redistribute the juices for moist, tender slices.

Notes

  • Use room temperature ingredients like eggs and meat for even mixing and baking.
  • Do not overwork the meat mixture to avoid a dense texture.
  • Resting the meatloaf after baking helps retain moisture and improves slicing.
  • If needed, drain excess fat after baking and before adding cheese to avoid soggy topping.
  • Sharp cheddar cheese provides better melting and flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: meatloaf, cheddar cheese, comfort food, baked meatloaf, gluten free meatloaf, easy dinner

Find it online: https://emillycooks.com/meatloaf-covered-in-cheddar-cheese/