Cheddar Meat Loaves
Cheddar Meat Loaves are hearty, flavorful, and cheesy, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, combining ground beef with cheddar and a sweet ketchup glaze.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a bowl, beat the egg and milk together.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, quick cooking oats, chopped onion, and salt.
- Add the ground beef and mix well until combined.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place in a baking dish.
- Combine ketchup and brown sugar to make a glaze and spread over the top of the loaf.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes or until cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some garlic powder or dried herbs like oregano or thyme. If you want a healthier twist, substitute half of the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. You can also use rolled oats instead of quick-cooking oats for a heartier texture. This dish can be easily adapted into Little Cheddar Meat Loaves for smaller portions.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Cheddar Meat Loaf with a side of mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It also pairs beautifully with Flavored Rice for a satisfying dinner. To enhance the flavors, consider a simple salad or some roasted broccoli as a refreshing side dish.
Storage & Reheating
After the meatloaf has cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice individual portions and warm them in the microwave or oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheddar Meat Loaves contains roughly 992 calories, with 37g protein, 122g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (73% of the Daily Value), iron (31% of the Daily Value), and calcium (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2545mg per serving (111% 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 Cheddar Meat Loaf?
Yes, you can freeze the meatloaf before or after baking. If freezing before baking, shape the loaf, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and then in foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Bake it from frozen, adding extra time, or thaw it in the fridge before baking.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
You can easily substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter or vegetarian option. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly with different meats, so ensure the internal temperature reaches a safe level.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
The meatloaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check this. Additionally, the juices should run clear when the meatloaf is cut. If it’s not done, return it to the oven and check every 5 minutes.
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).