Cheezy Meat Loaf
A cheesy meatloaf packed with savory flavors from Velveeta, green peppers, and onions, perfect for comforting family dinners or potlucks. Easy to customize and hearty.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- In a large bowl, mix ground beef, chopped onions, bread crumbs, salt, black pepper, egg, chopped green peppers, shredded Velveeta cheese, and tomato sauce.
- Place the mixture in a 9 x 13-inch pan and shape it to fit the pan.
- Mix tomato paste and sugar in a small bowl and pour over the top of the meat mixture.
- Bake for about one hour or until the meatloaf is firm.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some Worcestershire sauce or garlic powder into the meat mixture. If you prefer a healthier option, swap half of the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. You can also use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version. To enhance the texture, try adding some grated carrots or zucchini to the mix.
Serving Suggestions
This Cheezy Meat Loaf pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for a comforting meal. A side of Quick Soup can make for a heartier dinner. Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce on top. For a fresh touch, add a simple green salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and place it in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through. For best results, add a splash of broth to keep it moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheezy Meat Loaf contains roughly 197 calories, with 7g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (62% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1433mg per serving (62% 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 a different type of cheese in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute Velveeta with other cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella. Just ensure they melt well to maintain the cheesy texture. For a stronger flavor, aged cheddar works great!
How can I tell when the meatloaf is fully cooked?
The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer. Insert it into the center of the meatloaf; it should read 160°F for ground beef. Alternatively, you can cut into the loaf to check that the juices run clear and there’s no pink meat remaining.
Can I freeze the meatloaf?
Absolutely! You can freeze the meatloaf before or after baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
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).