Beef-Cheese Loaves
Juicy beef and sharp Cheddar cheese are combined into flavorful loaves, perfect for hearty dinners or casual gatherings, with savory relish and a tangy ketchup glaze.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onion in butter until soft.
- Combine ground beef, 1 3/4 cups shredded Cheddar cheese, relish, catsup, salt, Worcestershire sauce, and sautéed onion.
- Mix gently but thoroughly.
- Shape mixture into 4 to 6 individual loaves.
- Place loaves onto a greased baking pan.
- Bake at 350°F for 35 to 40 minutes.
- About 5 minutes before baking ends, sprinkle the tops of loaves with remaining 1/4 cup cheese.
- Return to oven until cheese melts.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using half ground beef and half ground turkey, or even a mix of pork. If you prefer a bit of heat, adding a dash of hot sauce or some diced jalapeños can elevate the taste. Ensure the cheese is well mixed into the meat for even melting during baking. If you're short on time, you can use pre-shredded cheese, but fresh cheese will yield better flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions
These beef-cheese loaves are delicious served with a side of mashed potatoes or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal. For a hearty dinner, pair them with crusty bread and a rich gravy. They also make excellent sandwiches the next day. For dessert, consider serving with a slice of Dee'S Best Brownies for a delightful finish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the loaves in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions on medium power for about 2-3 minutes, checking for warmth.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef-Cheese Loaves contains roughly 883 calories, with 13g protein, 98g carbohydrates, and 51g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (26% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2089mg per serving (91% 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 freeze the beef-cheese loaves before baking?
Yes, you can shape the loaves and freeze them before baking. Wrap each loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
While sharp Cheddar cheese is recommended for its strong flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a different taste. Mixing cheeses, like adding some mozzarella for creaminess, can also enhance the overall flavor and texture.
How can I make these loaves healthier?
To make the recipe lighter, consider using lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can also reduce the amount of cheese or use low-fat versions. Additionally, incorporating finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or spinach into the mixture can boost the nutritional content without sacrificing flavor.
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).