There’s nothing quite like the nostalgic, hearty flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak — tender beef, sautéed onions and peppers, melted cheese, all nestled inside a soft hoagie roll. Now imagine those same iconic tastes transformed into a comforting, oven-baked meatloaf that combines convenience with indulgence. Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf is the ultimate hybrid meal that delivers the best of both worlds — rich, savory ground beef baked with classic cheesesteak ingredients, topped with melted provolone cheese, and bursting with flavor in every bite.
Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or impressing guests with a unique dinner, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite. Let’s dive into everything you need to know to make this crowd-pleasing dish from scratch, plus tips, tricks, variations, and nutritional insights to make it perfect every time.
15-Word Overview
Savory meatloaf infused with classic Philly cheesesteak flavors, topped with gooey melted provolone cheese.
Ingredients with US Measurements
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter
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1 small yellow onion, finely diced (~1/2 cup)
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1 small green bell pepper, finely diced (~1/2 cup)
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8 ounces brown mushrooms, minced (~1 cup)
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1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
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1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
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2 pounds lean ground beef (80/20 or 85/15 recommended)
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2 tablespoons ketchup
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2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
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2 large eggs
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1 cup panko breadcrumbs
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8 ounces provolone cheese slices (about 8 slices)
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a standard 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion, green bell pepper, and minced mushrooms. Season with the salt and pepper. Let the vegetables cook undisturbed for 1 to 2 minutes until they begin to brown, then stir and cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes until softened. Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly.
Step 3: Mix the Meatloaf Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, eggs, and panko breadcrumbs. Add the cooled vegetable mixture. Using clean hands or a large spoon, mix everything thoroughly but gently, being careful not to overwork the meat to maintain tenderness.
Step 4: Assemble the Meatloaf
Place half of the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan and press it evenly into the bottom and sides. Layer half of the provolone cheese slices over the meat, ensuring even coverage. Carefully add the remaining meat mixture on top, shaping it into a smooth loaf.
Step 5: Bake the Meatloaf
Place the loaf pan on the middle rack of your preheated oven. Bake for 40 minutes. Remove the meatloaf from the oven, then top with the remaining provolone cheese slices. Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches 160°F (71°C).
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Remove the meatloaf from the oven and allow it to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This rest time helps the juices redistribute throughout the meatloaf, ensuring juicy, tender slices.
Preparation Time
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Active Prep Time: 15 minutes
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Cooking Time: 55 minutes
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Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 10 minutes
Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)
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Calories: 347 kcal
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Protein: 32g
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Fat: 22g
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Saturated Fat: 10g
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Carbohydrates: 6g
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Fiber: 1g
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Sugar: 2g
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Sodium: 500mg
Note: Nutrition varies depending on exact brands and ingredient choices.
Helpful Tips for the Best Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf
Use the Right Ground Beef
For the juiciest meatloaf, choose ground beef with a fat content of 15–20%. Leaner beef tends to dry out while cooking.
Don’t Overmix the Meat
Mix the ingredients just until combined. Overworking the meat can lead to a dense, tough meatloaf instead of a tender one.
Sauté the Veggies Well
Browning the onions, peppers, and mushrooms brings out their natural sweetness and deepens the flavor profile, essential for mimicking the classic Philly cheesesteak taste.
Let it Rest
Resting the meatloaf after baking allows juices to redistribute. Cutting too early can cause the meat to crumble and dry out.
Customize Your Cheese
Provolone is classic, but feel free to experiment with Cheez Whiz for a nostalgic Philly touch or mozzarella for a milder melt.
Make Ahead and Storage Tips
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Meatloaf can be made a day in advance, covered tightly with foil and refrigerated.
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Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
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Freeze portions for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Variations to Try
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Add Garlic: Mince 2 cloves of garlic and sauté with the veggies for extra aroma.
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Spicy Kick: Mix in 1 teaspoon of hot sauce or chopped jalapeños for heat.
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Mushroom-Free: Skip mushrooms and add extra peppers or onions.
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Cheese Stuffed: Create a cheese-stuffed meatloaf by layering the cheese in the center instead of the top.
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Glaze Topping: Brush the meatloaf with a mixture of ketchup and brown sugar before baking for a sweet glaze.
Serving Suggestions
Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf pairs beautifully with classic sides such as:
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Mashed potatoes or garlic roasted potatoes
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Steamed or sautéed green beans
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Creamy macaroni and cheese
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A fresh green salad with vinaigrette
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Soft dinner rolls or crusty bread
For a more authentic Philly experience, serve with a side of sautéed peppers and onions or a drizzle of cheese sauce.
The History Behind the Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf
The Philly cheesesteak — invented in Philadelphia in the 1930s — is a beloved American sandwich featuring thinly sliced ribeye, melted cheese, and sautéed onions and peppers. Combining these elements into a meatloaf is a modern twist that pays homage to this iconic street food while offering the ease of a home-cooked casserole-style meal.
This fusion recipe has grown in popularity due to its comforting flavors and versatility, perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests with a familiar yet exciting dish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, but note that ground poultry is leaner and may result in a drier meatloaf. Adding a bit of olive oil or extra eggs can help retain moisture.
What if I don’t have panko breadcrumbs?
You can substitute with regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers. If using regular breadcrumbs, soak them in a little milk first to keep the meatloaf moist.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The safe temperature for ground beef is 160°F (71°C).
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs or use ground oats.
Final Thoughts
Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf is a savory, comforting, and easy-to-make dish that brings the iconic flavors of Philadelphia’s favorite sandwich to your dinner table. With juicy beef, caramelized veggies, and melty provolone cheese, this meatloaf is perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or when you want a hearty dish with familiar flavors.
Give this recipe a try, and it just might become a new comfort food staple in your home.