Side Dishes

Classic Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf Recipe

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There’s something magical about taking two beloved comfort foods and combining them into one soul-satisfying dish. Enter: Classic Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf — the hearty, cheesy, and irresistibly savory mashup you didn’t know you needed. This recipe is a show-stopping centerpiece for family dinners, casual gatherings, or cozy Sunday meals. It takes the classic all-American meatloaf and infuses it with the rich, gooey, and meaty flair of a Philly cheesesteak.

Whether you’re a die-hard Philly cheesesteak fan or just looking to elevate your weeknight dinner lineup, this dish offers bold flavors with familiar ease. It’s family-friendly, customizable, and makes amazing leftovers (if you manage to have any left!).


Why You’ll Love This Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf

This recipe is for anyone who craves hearty, nostalgic meals with a twist. It’s ideal for busy parents, comfort food lovers, and home cooks looking to surprise their family with something new and delicious. The cheesy center, seasoned meats, and sautéed topping come together in a way that feels both indulgent and approachable.

It’s also a perfect solution for those trying to please picky eaters — who could say no to melty cheese, flavorful beef and pork, and a golden, bubbly topping?


Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Meatloaf:

  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef
  • 1 lb (450g) ground pork
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 1 cup shredded provolone cheese
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Topping:

  • 1/2 cup sautéed onions and green bell peppers
  • 1 cup provolone cheese, shredded

Kitchen Equipment Needed

To prepare this recipe, make sure you have the following on hand:

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Loaf pan (standard 9×5-inch works best)
  • Non-stick spray or oil for greasing
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Cheese grater (if shredding fresh provolone)
  • Sauté pan
  • Meat thermometer
  • Oven mitts
  • Serving knife and spatula

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a standard loaf pan with non-stick spray or a light coating of oil.

2. Mix the Meatloaf Base

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, diced green bell pepper, chopped onion, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly with clean hands or a spatula until everything is evenly distributed.

3. Layer in the Cheese

Press half of the meat mixture into the loaf pan, then create a shallow trench in the center. Fill it with the shredded provolone, then cover it with the remaining meat mixture, pressing it down to seal the cheesy core inside.

4. Bake

Place the loaf in the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

5. Add the Cheesesteak Topping

In the last 10 minutes of baking, remove the loaf and top it with sautéed onions, bell peppers, and a final layer of shredded provolone cheese. Return to the oven and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbling.

6. Rest and Serve

Let the meatloaf rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing to lock in the juices. Serve it up with toasted hoagie rolls, creamy mashed potatoes, or even a simple green salad.


Tips & Tricks for Perfect Results

  • Don’t overmix the meat, or your loaf may turn out dense. Combine just until the ingredients are incorporated.
  • Use a mix of meats for more flavor — beef and pork create a richer, juicier loaf than beef alone.
  • Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded versions and gives you that signature cheesesteak gooeyness.
  • Line the loaf pan with parchment paper for easier cleanup and removal.
  • Add mushrooms to the topping if you want an even more authentic cheesesteak vibe.

Ingredient Swaps & Variations

  • Swap the cheese: Don’t have provolone? Try mozzarella, cheddar, or even American cheese for a creamier interior.
  • Make it spicy: Add chopped jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.
  • Low-carb version: Skip the breadcrumbs and use almond flour or crushed pork rinds instead.
  • Make it mini: Form the mixture into individual muffin-sized portions and reduce the bake time to about 25–30 minutes.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

This meatloaf keeps well and even tastes better the next day!

To Store:

  • Wrap tightly in foil or place in an airtight container.
  • Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • For longer storage, freeze slices individually in freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months.

To Reheat:

  • Oven: Wrap in foil and reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 15–20 minutes.
  • Microwave: Heat slices for 1–2 minutes on medium power until warmed through.
  • Skillet: Crisp slices in a pan for extra texture.

What to Serve With Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf

This dish is rich and flavorful, so pairing it with a light or complementary side is key:

  • Toasted Hoagie Rolls – for that true Philly feel
  • Garlic Mashed Potatoes – creamy and classic
  • Steamed Broccoli or Green Beans – to balance out the richness
  • Roasted Sweet Potatoes – for a sweet-savory combo
  • Crisp Dill Pickles – to cut through the richness

Drink Pairings:

  • Root beer or cola for a kid-friendly classic
  • A cold lager or amber ale for the adults
  • Iced tea with lemon for a refreshing twist

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use just ground beef instead of beef and pork?

Yes! Ground beef alone will still yield a tasty loaf, but mixing with pork adds extra moisture and depth of flavor.

Is provolone cheese necessary?

Provolone is traditional for Philly cheesesteak flavor, but you can substitute mozzarella, cheddar, or even a mix of cheeses depending on your preference.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can assemble the loaf and refrigerate it (covered) up to 24 hours in advance. Bake when ready, adding 5–10 minutes to the cook time.

What’s the best way to freeze it?

Freeze slices wrapped individually for quicker reheating. Be sure they’re fully cooled before freezing, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How can I make it gluten-free?

Swap breadcrumbs for gluten-free panko or crushed rice crackers. Double-check that your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free as well.


Final Thoughts & Call to Action

This Classic Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf recipe brings all the flavor and fun of a cheesesteak in a hearty, home-cooked package. It’s a comfort food winner that’s easy enough for weeknights yet impressive enough for guests. The gooey cheese center and savory topping make it a standout dinner you’ll want to make again and again.

If you loved this recipe, don’t keep it to yourself! Share it with your friends and family, and don’t forget to subscribe to the blog for more bold, flavorful, and family-approved meals delivered straight to your inbox.