3 Meat Cheese Meat Loaf
A hearty meatloaf featuring a blend of meats and melted cheese, seasoned with garlic salt and vegetables, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together all ingredients well.
- Make two molds from the mixture.
- Place the molds in a greased pan.
- Cut the cheddar cheese into 1 inch x 1/8 inch wide sticks.
- Press the cheese sticks into the molds all the way down, covering the top over.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 30 minutes or until brown.
- Open 1 can of tomato sauce.
- Pour the tomato sauce over the top of the meatloaf.
- Let set for 10 minutes.
- Cut into slices and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. If you don't have ground lamb, ground turkey or extra beef can be used instead. Adjust the garlic salt to taste if you're sensitive to sodium. Adding cooked vegetables like spinach or mushrooms can enhance the texture and nutrition. For a twist, try incorporating a few tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty meatloaf pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or a side of green beans for a classic meal. Consider serving it with a simple salad, like Cottage Salad, for a refreshing contrast. For an added touch, serve with a homemade or store-bought barbecue sauce on the side.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, allow the meatloaf to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, slice and freeze the meatloaf in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat slices in the microwave or oven until warm throughout.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of 3 Meat Cheese Meat Loaf contains roughly 458 calories, with 20g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (330% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (62% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (47% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 725mg per serving (32% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container to keep it fresh.
What can I serve with the meatloaf?
In addition to mashed potatoes, this meatloaf goes well with roasted vegetables or a side of mac and cheese. A fresh salad, like Green Molded Salad, can add a nice crunch and balance out the richness of the meatloaf.
Can I substitute the cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! If you prefer a different flavor, try using mozzarella or pepper jack cheese for a bit of spice. If you're looking for a lower-fat option, reduced-fat cheese can also work, although it may melt differently.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).