Meat Loaf With Cheese
A hearty meat loaf layered with melted cheese and fresh parsley, offering a savory blend of flavors. This comforting dish is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, combining tender ground beef with seasonings and cheese for a satisfying, crowd-pleasing meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground chuck with bread crumbs, milk, eggs, chopped onion, chopped green pepper, horseradish (if using), seasoned salt, and pepper.
- Mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Divide the mixture in half and place half in a loaf pan.
- Top with half of the grated Cheddar cheese and half of the minced parsley.
- Repeat with the remaining meat mixture, cheese, and parsley.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 hour or until cooked through.
- Sprinkle with paprika after baking.
- Let stand for 10 minutes before slicing.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some Worcestershire sauce or substituting half of the ground chuck with ground turkey for a lighter version. If you don't have soft bread crumbs, you can use crushed crackers instead. Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a unique twist. Always let the meatloaf rest before slicing to maintain its moisture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meatloaf with classic sides like mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for a hearty meal. It also pairs beautifully with Jello Salad In A Jiffy for a refreshing contrast. Garnish with extra parsley for color and serve with your favorite ketchup or barbecue sauce on the side for dipping.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and microwave for 1-2 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat Loaf With Cheese contains roughly 538 calories, with 18g protein, 88g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (131% of the Daily Value), protein (36% of the Daily Value), and iron (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 896mg per serving (39% 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 meatloaf before or after cooking?
You can freeze meatloaf both before and after cooking. If freezing before, shape the loaf and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. If freezing after baking, make sure it's cooled completely, then store it in an airtight container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What can I use instead of horseradish?
If you're looking for a substitute for horseradish, consider using a little prepared mustard for tang or wasabi for a spicier kick. You can also simply omit it if preferred, as the other ingredients will still provide plenty of flavor.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
The best way to check if the meatloaf is done is to use a meat thermometer. It should read 160°F in the center. If you don't have a thermometer, ensure the juices run clear when you cut into it, and the meat is no longer pink.
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).