There's nothing quite like the comforting aroma of a classic meatloaf baking in the oven—but what if we took it up a notch? Enter the Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf, a delightful fusion of hearty meatloaf and all the flavors you love from a Philly cheesesteak.

This recipe brings together juicy beef, savory peppers and onions, and gooey melted cheese, creating a dinner that’s sure to impress. I first whipped up this recipe on a chilly evening, inspired by my love for cheesesteaks and the desire to create a family-friendly twist on the traditional meatloaf. It’s now a go-to favorite, combining the best of both worlds. Let’s dive in!

Why You'll Love This Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf

Get ready to discover your new favorite comfort food. This Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf is more than just a meal—it’s an experience that will have everyone at your table asking for seconds.

First, it’s an incredibly easy recipe to pull together. With just a handful of common ingredients and a little prep, you can create a dish that feels gourmet without spending all evening in the kitchen.

Second, the flavor is off the charts. The combination of ground beef, sautéed onions and bell peppers, and provolone cheese delivers a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and cheesy goodness that will remind you of your favorite Philly cheesesteak sandwich.

And let’s not forget how versatile this recipe is! It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or even meal prep. Slice it up and serve with mashed potatoes, a salad, or a side of roasted veggies—it pairs beautifully with almost anything.

Finally, this meatloaf is a fantastic way to switch up your dinner routine. If your family is tired of the same old meals, this creative twist will bring excitement back to the dinner table.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf lies in its carefully selected ingredients. Each one plays a key role in capturing the signature cheesesteak flavors.

Ground Beef: The foundation of this meatloaf, providing a rich and juicy base. I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for the perfect balance of flavor and moisture.
Bell Peppers and Onions: These veggies are essential for that classic Philly cheesesteak taste. Be sure to sauté them until they’re soft and slightly caramelized to maximize their flavor.
Provolone Cheese: Melty, mild, and oh-so-creamy, provolone is the star of the show. You’ll layer it in the middle and on top for gooey cheesiness in every bite.
Breadcrumbs and Eggs: These classic binders hold the meatloaf together, ensuring it doesn’t fall apart while slicing.
Worcestershire Sauce: Just a splash adds a savory depth of flavor that enhances the beef.

You’ll also need a loaf pan to shape your meatloaf, though you can free-form it on a baking sheet if you prefer.

How To Make This Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf

Making this dish is as simple as layering your favorite cheesesteak ingredients into a flavorful meatloaf. Here’s how:

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats, sauté your onions and bell peppers in a little olive oil until softened. Set them aside to cool slightly.

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until just combined—overmixing can make the meatloaf tough.

On a piece of parchment paper, flatten the beef mixture into a rectangular shape, about an inch thick. Lay slices of provolone cheese down the center, then top with your sautéed onions and bell peppers.

Carefully roll the meat mixture around the filling, sealing the edges to form a loaf. Transfer it to a greased loaf pan or baking sheet.

Bake for 45-50 minutes, then remove the meatloaf and top with additional provolone cheese. Pop it back into the oven for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This step ensures that the juices redistribute, keeping your meatloaf moist and flavorful.

Storage Options

This Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf stores beautifully, making it a great option for leftovers or meal prep.

Refrigerator: Store slices in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Freezer: Wrap the meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating Tips: For the best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Cover with foil to prevent drying out.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is! Here are some ideas to make it your own:

Cheese Options: Swap the provolone for mozzarella, cheddar, or even pepper jack for a spicier twist.
Protein Alternatives: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, or mix in some ground pork for extra flavor.
Add Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms make a delicious addition to the filling for an even heartier dish.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free without sacrificing texture or flavor.
Low-Carb: Substitute almond flour or crushed pork rinds for breadcrumbs to reduce carbs while maintaining structure.

Experiment with these variations and let your creativity shine. However you choose to make it, this Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf is bound to become a household favorite. Enjoy!