A plate of Cheesy Smothered Meatloaf topped with golden melted cheese and savory gravy, garnished with fresh parsley.

Cheesy Smothered Meatloaf Recipe

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Cheesy Smothered Meatloaf is the ultimate comfort food! Juicy, tender meatloaf smothered in rich gravy and gooey melted cheese makes it the perfect hearty dinner for family gatherings or weeknight meals. Pair it with creamy mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables, and you’ve got a dinner everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to Prepare: Straightforward ingredients and simple steps.
  • Family Favorite: Perfect balance of savory meatloaf, creamy gravy, and cheesy goodness.
  • Versatile Side Options: Pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Meatloaf:

  • 1.5 lbs ground beef
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup diced onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Gravy and Topping:

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Meatloaf

  1. Preheat your oven: Set to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Mix the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, diced onion, minced garlic, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined—don’t overwork the meat.
  3. Shape and place: Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in a baking dish.

2. Bake the Meatloaf

  1. Cook in the oven: Bake the meatloaf for 40–45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

3. Make the Gravy

  1. Melt butter: In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
  2. Add flour: Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it turns golden brown.
  3. Add broth: Slowly pour in the beef broth while whisking to avoid lumps. Cook for 5-7 minutes until thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Smother with Cheese and Gravy

  1. Pour and top: Remove the baked meatloaf from the oven. Pour the gravy over the top, then sprinkle with shredded cheese.
  2. Melt the cheese: Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

5. Garnish and Serve

  1. Add final touches: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
  2. Serve hot: Slice and serve warm with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes or roasted veggies.

Pro Tips for the Best Meatloaf

  • Don’t Overmix: Overworking the meat can make the meatloaf dense.
  • Let it Rest: Allow the meatloaf to rest for 5 minutes before slicing to retain its juices.
  • Customize Your Gravy: Add mushrooms or onions for extra flavor in the gravy.

Nutritional Information

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8 of the loaf)
  • Calories: 420 kcal
  • Protein: 28g
  • Fat: 23g
  • Carbs: 16g

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for a lighter option. Adjust the cooking time slightly as needed.

How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the meatloaf and refrigerate it, covered, for up to 24 hours before baking.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Smothered Meatloaf is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its rich flavors, hearty texture, and cheesy topping make it a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or making a cozy family dinner, this recipe is sure to impress.

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