Cheesy Homestyle Meatloaf: A Family Favorite Comfort Food Recipe

Classic Homestyle Cheese-Stuffed Meatloaf

Why This Meatloaf Recipe Works

What sets this meatloaf apart is the perfect balance of moisture, flavor, and texture. The cheese hidden inside creates pockets of melty goodness, while the carefully selected seasonings ensure every bite is packed with flavor. The sweet-tangy glaze forms an irresistible crust that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Key Ingredients for Perfect Meatloaf

This recipe uses a combination of pantry staples and fresh ingredients to create a meatloaf that’s far from boring:

• Ground meat – The foundation of any good meatloaf
• Breadcrumbs – Helps bind while keeping the texture light
• Eggs – Provides structure and richness
• Cheese – Creates melty pockets of flavor throughout
• Glaze ingredients – Creates that signature sweet-tangy crust

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 pounds ground beef (85% lean recommended)
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 cup Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 1 green bell pepper, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup ketchup (plus more for topping)
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• For the glaze:
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

How to Make the Best Homemade Meatloaf

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper, or prepare a 9×5-inch loaf pan with cooking spray.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, beaten eggs, breadcrumbs, diced onion, diced bell pepper, minced garlic, shredded cheese, 1/4 cup ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and all dried herbs and seasonings.
3. Mix gently with your hands until just combined. Tip: Avoid overmixing, which can make your meatloaf tough and dense.
4. Transfer the meat mixture to your prepared baking sheet and shape into a loaf approximately 9×5 inches, or press evenly into your loaf pan.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together all glaze ingredients until smooth.
6. Spread the glaze evenly over the top and sides of your meatloaf.
7. Bake uncovered for 55-65 minutes, or until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center reads 160°F (71°C).
8. Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute for maximum flavor and moisture.
9. Slice and serve warm with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes and green vegetables.

Tips for Meatloaf Success

• Don’t overwork the meat mixture – Mix just until combined to keep the texture tender
• Use a meat thermometer – The most accurate way to ensure your meatloaf is perfectly cooked
• Let it rest – The 10-minute rest after baking is crucial for a juicy meatloaf
• Free-form loaf – Shaping on a baking sheet rather than in a loaf pan allows more of the surface to caramelize
• Add vegetables – Finely chopped vegetables add moisture and nutrition

Variations to Try

Italian Meatloaf

Add 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, substitute mozzarella for the cheddar, and use Italian seasoning blend instead of the individual herbs.

BBQ Meatloaf

Replace the glaze with your favorite BBQ sauce and add 1/4 cup more to the meat mixture.

Turkey Meatloaf

Substitute ground turkey for beef. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the mixture to maintain moisture.

Storing and Reheating Leftover Meatloaf

Meatloaf often tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results when reheating, slice the meatloaf and heat gently in a skillet with a splash of beef broth, or microwave individual slices with a damp paper towel cover.

Freezing Instructions

This meatloaf freezes beautifully. Either freeze the raw mixture (without glaze) for up to 3 months, or freeze fully cooked and cooled meatloaf slices wrapped individually. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking or reheating.

Nutritional Information

Serving Suggestions for Meatloaf

For a complete comfort food experience, serve this delicious meatloaf with:

• Creamy mashed potatoes
• Buttered green beans or peas
• Dinner rolls
• Simple garden salad
• Mac and cheese (for an extra indulgent meal!)

Why You’ll Love This Meatloaf Recipe

This isn’t just any meatloaf—it’s a meal that brings families together around the dinner table. The combination of juicy meat, melty cheese, and that perfect sweet-tangy glaze creates a comfort food classic that appeals to everyone from kids to grandparents. Whether you’re new to making meatloaf or looking to perfect your recipe, this version delivers reliable results with fantastic flavor every time.

Give this homestyle cheese-stuffed meatloaf a try tonight, and discover why it’s destined to become your new go-to dinner recipe!

Recipe inspired by AllRecipes