Ultimate Comfort: Cheesy Meatloaf Extravaganza
Prepare to elevate your meatloaf experience with our Cheesy Meatloaf recipe – a culinary delight that marries the rich flavors of ground beef and pork with the gooey goodness of melted mozzarella. This isn’t your ordinary meatloaf; it’s a symphony of textures and tastes that transforms a classic dish into a cheesy extravaganza. Whether you’re a meatloaf enthusiast or a newcomer to this comfort food staple, our recipe promises a mouthwatering journey through layers of savory delight.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound ground pork
- 1 (1 ounce) envelope dry onion soup mix
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 ½ cups dry bread crumbs
- Ground black pepper to taste
- ¾ cup water
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish to ensure easy removal of the meatloaf.
2. Mix the Meat Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, dry onion soup mix, beaten eggs, dry bread crumbs, and ground black pepper. Mix the ingredients thoroughly to create a well-combined meat base.
3. Add Moisture
Pour the water into the meat mixture and continue to mix. The water adds moisture, keeping the meatloaf tender and flavorful.
4. Introduce the Cheesy Element
Fold in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese into the meat mixture. This cheesy addition will bring a gooey surprise to each bite.
5. Form the Meatloaf
Transfer the meat mixture into the greased baking dish, shaping it into a loaf. Ensure an even distribution to guarantee consistent cooking.
6. Top it Off
Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the meatloaf. This layer of cheese will melt and create a golden crust during baking.
7. Bake to Perfection
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). The melted cheese on top should be bubbly and golden.
Cook Notes
- For added flavor, consider using seasoned dry bread crumbs or mixing in your favorite herbs and spices.
- Let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.
Variations
Bacon-Wrapped Wonder
Wrap the meatloaf in bacon strips before baking for an extra layer of smokiness and flavor.
Mushroom and Swiss Delight
Incorporate sautéed mushrooms into the meat mixture and top the meatloaf with Swiss cheese for a gourmet twist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use lean ground meat for this recipe?
A: While lean meat can be used, keep in mind that the higher fat content in ground beef and pork adds moisture and flavor to the meatloaf.
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with cheddar, provolone, or any cheese of your choice to customize the flavor profile.
Q: How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
A: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Additionally, the melted cheese on top should be golden and bubbly.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions
Almond Flour Substitute
Replace the dry bread crumbs with almond flour for a low-carb alternative.
Provolone and Parmesan Magic
Opt for a mix of provolone and Parmesan cheese to reduce the mozzarella content for a keto-friendly option.
A Cheesy Masterpiece
In conclusion, our Cheesy Meatloaf recipe transcends the ordinary, transforming a classic comfort dish into a cheesy masterpiece. The combination of ground beef, pork, and gooey mozzarella creates a savory experience that tantalizes the taste buds. Whether you follow the traditional recipe or venture into inventive variations, each slice promises a journey through layers of cheesy delight. So, preheat that oven, embrace the aroma of baking perfection, and savor the ultimate comfort of Cheesy Meatloaf – where classic meets indulgence in a symphony of flavor!
