Philly Cheese Steak Meatloaf

A Hearty Homage to the Classic Sandwich

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Preparation Phase & Tools To Use

Tools:

1. Oven
2. Loaf pan or baking sheet
3. Skillet
4. Mixing bowl
5. Knife and cutting board
6. Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients and Their Roles:

For the Meatloaf:

• Ground beef (1.5 pounds): Serves as the base of the meatloaf, providing rich, meaty flavor.
• Onion (1 medium, finely diced): Adds sweetness and moisture to the meatloaf.
• Green bell pepper (1, finely diced): Adds a slight bitterness and crunch, mimicking the classic Philly Cheese Steak filling.
• Mushrooms (1 cup, finely chopped): Contribute earthiness and umami.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Enhances the overall savoriness.
• Provolone cheese (1 cup, chopped or shredded): Melts into the meatloaf, adding creamy, tangy flavor.
• Beef broth (1/4 cup): Enhances moisture and flavor.
• Worcestershire sauce (1 tablespoon): Adds depth and a slight tangy sweetness.
• Egg (1 large): Acts as a binder for the meatloaf, keeping it from falling apart.
• Breadcrumbs (1/2 cup): Helps to bind the mixture together and retain moisture, ensuring the meatloaf isn’t too dense.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Seasoning to enhance all the flavors.

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Step-By-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven & Prep Pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper if you prefer a free-form meatloaf.
2. Sauté Vegetables: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the onions, bell pepper, mushrooms, and garlic until they are soft and slightly browned. Set aside to cool.
3. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, sautéed vegetables, provolone cheese, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, egg, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
4. Shape & Bake: Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan, shaping it evenly. If using a baking sheet, form the mixture into a loaf shape. Bake for about 45-55 minutes, or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
5. Optional Cheese Topping: For an extra cheesy experience, top the meatloaf with additional provolone slices in the last 10 minutes of baking.
6. Rest & Serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the meatloaf moist and easier to slice.

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Time and Servings:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 55 minutes
• Total Time: About 1 hour 15 minutes
• Servings: 6-8

Nutritional Information & Health Benefits:

This Philly Cheese Steak Meatloaf is a hearty and satisfying dish. While rich in proteins and providing a good amount of iron and B vitamins from the beef, it’s also quite indulgent due to the cheese and beef content. Including vegetables like onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms adds fiber and vitamins to the dish. For a lighter version, you could use lean ground beef and reduced-fat cheese.

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Common Mistakes To Avoid & How to Perfect the Recipe:

• Overmixing the Meat: Mix the ingredients until just combined to keep the meatloaf tender.
• Skipping the Vegetable Sauté: Sautéing the vegetables before adding them to the meatloaf mix helps to release moisture and concentrate their flavors.
• Not Letting It Rest: Allowing the meatloaf to rest after baking is crucial for a juicy result. Cutting into it too soon can cause the juices to run out, leaving the meatloaf dry.

Conclusion:

The Philly Cheese Steak Meatloaf combines the beloved flavors of a classic Philly cheese steak with the comforting form of a meatloaf. It’s a unique twist on traditional recipes, perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special weekend meal. The sautéed vegetables and provolone cheese incorporated into the meatloaf ensure each bite is bursting with flavor, reminiscent of the iconic sandwich. Enjoy this delicious fusion that’s sure to please both meatloaf and Philly cheese steak fans alike!