Cheese-stuffed Meatloaf

Cheese-stuffed Meatloaf Recipe | USA | Ground Beef, Cheese, Onion, Pepper, Celery, Mustard, Ketchup

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Cheese-stuffed meatloaf is a delicious and comforting dish that combines the savory flavors of ground beef with the gooey goodness of melted cheese. This recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion meal.

History

Meatloaf has been a popular dish in American cuisine for decades, with variations found in many different cultures around the world. The addition of cheese to the traditional meatloaf recipe adds a rich and creamy element that takes this classic dish to the next level.

Ingredients

2 lb (907 g) of ground beef
1 cup of your favorite cheese
2 beaten eggs
1 small white onion, chopped
1 small green bell pepper, chopped
1 stalk of celery, chopped
0.25 cup of plain bread crumbs
1 tbsp of mustard
3 tbsp of ketchup

How to prepare

In a bowl, combine ground beef, onion, bell pepper, celery, bread crumbs, mustard, and ketchup. Mix well.
Press half of the mixture into the bottom of an iron skillet.
Add cheese, leaving about half an inch from the edge.
Top with the remaining meat mixture.
Seal the edges and bake at 350°F (177°C) for 45 minutes.

Variations

Try using different types of cheese, such as cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack.
Add cooked bacon or mushrooms to the meat mixture for extra flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to mix the meatloaf ingredients thoroughly to ensure that the flavors are well combined.

- Use a high-quality cheese for the best melting and flavor.

- Let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.

Serving Suggestions

Serve cheese-stuffed meatloaf with mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the meatloaf in an iron skillet helps to seal in the juices and create a crispy crust on the outside.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef for a lighter version of this recipe.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the meatloaf mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it until you are ready to bake it.

Presentation Ideas

Slice the meatloaf and serve it on a platter garnished with fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Cheese-stuffed meatloaf pairs well with a side salad and a glass of red wine.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of cheese-stuffed meatloaf contains approximately 400 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of cheese-stuffed meatloaf contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of cheese-stuffed meatloaf contains approximately 20 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of cheese-stuffed meatloaf contains approximately 30 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Cheese-stuffed meatloaf is a good source of iron, vitamin B12, and zinc.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese) and gluten (bread crumbs).

Summary

Cheese-stuffed meatloaf is a hearty and satisfying dish that is high in protein and rich in flavor. It is a great option for a balanced meal.

Summary

Cheese-stuffed meatloaf is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a family dinner or special occasion. With its rich flavors and gooey cheese filling, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Cheese-stuffed Meatloaf. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my friend Martha's farm. As we sat in her kitchen sipping on some homemade lemonade, she suddenly got up and started rummaging through her old recipe box.

"I've got a special recipe I want to share with you," Martha said with a twinkle in her eye. "It's a family favorite, passed down from my grandmother."

As she handed me the faded index card with the recipe written in her neat handwriting, I could feel the excitement building inside me. Cheese-stuffed Meatloaf - the name alone sounded enticing.

Martha explained that the recipe was a twist on the classic meatloaf her family had been making for generations. Instead of simply mixing ground beef with breadcrumbs and spices, this version had a surprise element - a gooey, melted cheese filling that oozed out with every bite.

I couldn't wait to try it out for myself, so I thanked Martha profusely and headed back home with the recipe clutched in my hands.

The next day, I gathered all the ingredients - ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, onions, garlic, and of course, the star of the show, cheddar cheese. As I mixed everything together and formed the meatloaf, I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation. Would this recipe live up to the hype?

As the meatloaf baked in the oven, the delicious aroma filled my kitchen, making my stomach growl in anticipation. When I finally pulled it out and sliced into it, I was greeted with a sight that made my mouth water - a molten river of melted cheese cascading out of the meatloaf.

I took a bite, and my taste buds were in heaven. The savory, juicy meatloaf paired perfectly with the creamy, melted cheese. It was a match made in culinary heaven.

From that day on, Cheese-stuffed Meatloaf became a staple in my cooking repertoire. I made it for family gatherings, potlucks, and even just for myself on lazy Sundays. Each time I served it, it never failed to impress.

Over the years, I've tweaked the recipe here and there, adding my own personal touch with a sprinkle of herbs or a dash of Worcestershire sauce. But the core of the recipe - the cheese-stuffed surprise - has always remained the same.

As I think back on that fateful day at Martha's farm, I can't help but feel grateful for the serendipitous encounter that led me to this delicious recipe. It's a reminder of the joy and connection that food can bring, and the way it can weave together memories and traditions from the past.

And now, as I pass on this recipe to you, my dear grandchild, I hope that you will enjoy it as much as I have. May it bring you comfort, joy, and a taste of the past with every cheesy, meaty bite. Bon appétit!