Cheddar Meat Loaf
Cheddar Meat Loaf offers a hearty, cheesy twist on traditional meatloaf, blending savory ground beef with flavorful seasonings and melted Cheddar cheese. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, its comforting taste and easy preparation make it a favorite for all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine ground beef, oatmeal, chopped onion, salt, celery salt, paprika, and pepper.
- Blend in the eggs and milk until well mixed.
- Add the diced Cheddar cheese and mix carefully.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf in a shallow baking dish.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, try incorporating minced garlic or fresh herbs like parsley or thyme into the meat mixture. If you don’t have oatmeal, crushed crackers or breadcrumbs can work as a substitute. Ensure the onion is finely chopped for even distribution and sweetness. For a twist, consider adding chopped bell peppers or jalapeños for extra heat, which can complement the flavors found in other beef recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of Cheddar Meat Loaf with a side of mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a classic comfort meal. It pairs beautifully with a rich gravy or a tangy barbecue sauce. For a lighter option, consider a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. This dish also makes great meatloaf sandwiches for lunch the next day.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Cheddar Meat Loaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and place it in a baking dish with a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out, then cover with foil and heat in a 350°F oven until warmed through, about 20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheddar Meat Loaf contains roughly 187 calories, with 8g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (47% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (30% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1356mg per serving (59% 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 use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef in this recipe. However, keep in mind that these meats are leaner, so you may want to add some moisture, such as an extra egg or a bit more milk, to keep the meatloaf from being too dry.
How can I tell when the meatloaf is fully cooked?
The best way to check if the meatloaf is cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. It should register at least 160°F in the center. Alternatively, you can cut into the loaf to check that the juices run clear and there's no pink remaining in the middle.
Can I freeze the meatloaf for later?
Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked meatloaf by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you're ready to cook it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed. You can also freeze leftovers in slices for quick meals.
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).