Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf, The Ultimate Fusion of Steak and Comfort

Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf is the perfect mix of juicy ground beef, melted cheese, and all the classic Philly cheesesteak flavors in one cozy dish. Imagine the satisfying taste of a…

By Julia • October 29, 2025 • Reading time: 6 min

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Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf is the perfect mix of juicy ground beef, melted cheese, and all the classic Philly cheesesteak flavors in one cozy dish. Imagine the satisfying taste of a cheesesteak sandwich baked into a warm, hearty meatloaf—with tender pieces of bell pepper and onion folded right in. It’s a fun twist on two favorites rolled into one.

I love making this meatloaf when I want something special but still comfortable and familiar. The melted provolone cheese and those savory sautéed veggies just make the whole house smell amazing while it cooks. I usually add a little ketchup or steak sauce on top before popping it in the oven—such a simple thing, but it takes the flavor over the top.

This dish is great for family dinners or when friends come over because it’s easy to slice and serve, and everyone always asks for seconds. I like serving it with a side of roasted potatoes or a simple green salad to keep things balanced. It’s one of those meals that feels like a warm hug on a plate every time.

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Ground Beef: Using an 80/20 mix keeps the meatloaf juicy and tender. If you want leaner meat, try 90/10 but add some olive oil for moisture.

Bell Peppers & Onions: These bring the classic Philly flavor. Red or yellow peppers work too, and you can add mushrooms if you like.

Cheese: Provolone is traditional, giving a mild, creamy taste. Cheddar adds a sharp contrast on top. For a twist, try mozzarella or Monterey Jack.

Breading & Milk: Breadcrumbs hold the meatloaf together, while milk keeps it tender. Use panko for a lighter texture or gluten-free crumbs if needed.

Glaze: The ketchup-brown sugar glaze is a sweet and tangy finish. You can swap ketchup with BBQ sauce for a smoky flavor.

How Do You Make Sure the Meatloaf Stays Juicy and Doesn’t Dry Out?

The secret is balancing ingredients and careful cooking:

• Choose ground beef with some fat (80/20).
• Mix in soaked breadcrumbs and milk to lock in moisture.
• Don’t overmix the meat; too much handling makes it dense.
• Sauté veggies beforehand to remove water, preventing sogginess.
• Apply the glaze halfway through cooking to keep the top moist and flavorful.
• Let the meatloaf rest before slicing to keep juices inside.

Following these tips will give you a tender and juicy meatloaf every time.

Equipment You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl – perfect for combining meat and veggies without making a mess.
• Skillet – use it to sauté bell peppers, onions, and garlic for rich flavor.
• Loaf pan or baking sheet – a loaf pan keeps shape tight, while a baking sheet gives crispier edges.
• Measuring cups and spoons – helps you get the seasonings and glaze just right.
• Instant-read thermometer – ensures your meatloaf is fully cooked but still juicy.

Flavor Variations & Add-Ins

• Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken to lighten the dish and reduce fat.
• Add sautéed mushrooms alongside peppers and onions for extra earthiness.
• Mix in chopped jalapeños if you like a spicy kick in your meatloaf.
• Stir in a handful of shredded mozzarella for a gooey, melty surprise inside.

How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf, The Ultimate Fusion of Steak and Comfort

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For The Meatloaf:

• 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
• 1 cup diced green bell pepper
• 1 cup diced onion
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup shredded provolone cheese (plus extra slices for topping)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• ½ cup milk
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional for extra depth)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing veggies)

For The Glaze:

• ½ cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

For Garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, 1 hour of baking time including the cheese topping phase, and about 10 minutes of resting before you slice. Total time from start to finish is roughly 1 hour and 25 minutes.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Veggies:

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced green bell pepper and onion. Sauté for about 5 to 7 minutes until softened and just a little caramelized. Add minced garlic in the last minute, then remove the skillet from heat and let cool slightly. This step brings out the wonderful Philly cheesesteak flavors.

2. Mix the Meatloaf:

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Gently mix together until just combined—be careful not to overwork the meat to keep the texture tender. Fold in the sautéed veggies and shredded provolone cheese.

3. Shape and Glaze:

Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it on a baking sheet or in a greased loaf pan. In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce to create the glaze. Spread half of this glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.

4. Bake and Cheese It Up:

Bake the meatloaf in your preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes. Remove it, spread the remaining glaze on top, then sprinkle or layer with extra provolone slices and cheddar cheese. Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an extra 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).

5. Rest and Serve:

Let your meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps keep all those delicious juices inside. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve warm with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a crisp green salad.

Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef to make a leaner version. Just be aware turkey cooks a bit faster and can dry out more easily, so keep an eye on cooking time and consider adding a little extra moisture like olive oil or a splash of milk.

How Do I Store Leftover Meatloaf?

Wrap leftover meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, covered to retain moisture.

Can I Make This Meatloaf Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture and shape it a day ahead, then refrigerate it covered before baking. Just add the glaze and cheese topping right before baking for the freshest results.

What’s the Best Way to Reheat Meatloaf?

To keep your meatloaf moist when reheating, wrap slices in foil and warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 15 minutes. You can also reheat in the microwave—cover it with a microwave-safe lid or damp paper towel to avoid drying out.