A classic comfort food with a cheesy twist! This meatloaf is moist, flavorful, and loaded with gooey cheese in the center. Perfect for a family dinner.
Ingredients:
- For the Meatloaf:
- 1.5 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 ounces shredded cheddar cheese, or mozzarella, or a blend.
- For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard.
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the milk, egg, chopped onion, and minced garlic.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Add the breadcrumbs, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to the wet ingredients. Mix well.
- Incorporate the Meat: Add the ground beef to the mixture. Gently combine everything with your hands or a spoon until just mixed. Be careful not to overmix.
- Assemble the Meatloaf:
- Take half of the meat mixture and press it into the bottom of a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
- Add the shredded cheese evenly over the meat in the loaf pan.
- Place the remaining meat mixture on top of the cheese, and press it to seal the sides.
- Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard.
- Add the Topping: Spread the ketchup mixture evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the juices run clear. An internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) should be reached.
- Rest and Serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, making it more moist.
- Serve: Serve warm with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, green beans, or a side salad.