Meatloaf Magic: Choosing The Perfect Cheese

Meatloaf is a classic comfort food, but what kind of cheese should you put in it? There are several options, including cheddar, gouda, Swiss, Colby, Monterey Jack, mozzarella, and pepper jack. For a cheeseburger meatloaf, you could use American cheese with ketchup and mustard, or Swiss cheese with a mushroom topping. The cheese can be shredded or cubed, and is usually added to the centre of the meatloaf.

How to choose the right cheese for your meatloaf

Meatloaf is a classic dish that can be made even better with the addition of cheese. But with so many types of cheese available, how do you choose the right one for your meatloaf? Here are some tips to help you select the perfect cheese to take your meatloaf to the next level.

Consider the Flavour Profile You Want to Achieve

Think about the flavours you want to highlight in your meatloaf. Do you want something sharp and tangy, or mild and creamy? For a tangy flavour profile, consider using cheeses such as sharp cheddar, Swiss cheese, or gouda. If you prefer a milder taste, go for options like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or Colby. You can also experiment with different varieties to find your favourite—blue cheese, feta, and pepper jack are all worth trying!

Choose a Cheese That Melts Well

When adding cheese to your meatloaf, you'll want to select a variety that melts well. Semi-hard cheeses with a lower melting point are ideal, as they will create a delicious, gooey texture when baked. Havarti, gouda, cheddar, Swiss cheese, Colby, and Monterey Jack are all excellent choices that will give you that irresistible, melty cheese filling.

Decide on Shredded or Cubed Cheese

The way you prepare your cheese can also make a difference. Some recipes call for shredded cheese, which blends into the meat mixture and creates a consistent texture. However, if you want distinct pockets of cheesy goodness throughout your meatloaf, cubed cheese is the way to go. Experiment with both methods to see which one you prefer!

Don't Be Afraid to Experiment

While classic options like cheddar and gouda are always a safe bet, don't be afraid to get creative and experiment with different cheese combinations. For example, you could try using a mix of shredded and cubed cheese, or even stuff your meatloaf with multiple varieties. Remember, there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to choosing the right cheese for your meatloaf, so feel free to customise it to your taste preferences.

Other Ingredients to Complement the Cheese

To enhance the flavour of your cheesy meatloaf, consider adding complementary ingredients. Onion, garlic, and Worcestershire sauce are classic additions that pair well with cheese. You can also experiment with different glazes or toppings, such as ketchup, barbecue sauce, or a tangy tomato-mustard sauce. Don't be afraid to get creative and adjust the recipe to your liking!

By following these tips, you'll be well on your way to creating a mouth-watering meatloaf with the perfect cheese of your choice. Remember to have fun with the process and don't be afraid to experiment until you find your ideal combination of flavours and textures. Happy cooking!

How to prepare the meatloaf mixture

Preparing the meatloaf mixture is a simple process, but it's important to get it right to ensure your meatloaf is flavoursome, tender, and holds together well. Here's a step-by-step guide to preparing the perfect meatloaf mixture:

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

First, you'll need to gather all the ingredients for your meatloaf. The exact ingredients may vary depending on your recipe, but typically you'll need ground beef, eggs, breadcrumbs or a similar binder, cheese, and various seasonings. For the cheese, you can use a semi-hard, easy-melting variety such as Havarti, Gouda, Cheddar, Swiss, Colby, Monterey Jack, or even Blue Cheese or Feta.

Step 2: Combine the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, eggs, breadcrumbs or alternative, cheese, and seasonings. You can use your hands or a large spoon to mix everything together. Make sure all the ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Some recipes call for wet ingredients such as milk, pasta sauce, or Worcestershire sauce. If your recipe includes these, add them to the mixture a little at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. This will help to ensure your meatloaf is moist and flavourful.

Step 4: Mix Until Combined

Continue mixing the ingredients until they are fully combined. The mixture should be thick and hold together when you form it into a loaf shape. If it seems too wet or loose, you can add a little more breadcrumbs or binder. If it's too dry, you can add a small amount of milk or water.

Step 5: Adjust Seasonings

Before moving on, it's a good idea to taste a small amount of the mixture to check the seasoning. This will give you a chance to adjust the salt, pepper, or other seasonings if needed. Remember, it's easier to add more seasoning than to take it away, so start with a small amount and increase as needed.

Step 6: Prepare for Baking

Once you're happy with the consistency and flavour of your meatloaf mixture, you're ready to start shaping it and preparing it for the oven. Follow the instructions in your chosen recipe for shaping, glazing, and baking your meatloaf to perfection!

How to shape and bake the meatloaf

Shaping and baking a meatloaf is a simple process, but there are a few tricks to getting it just right. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you achieve the perfect meatloaf:

Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture

Before shaping your meatloaf, you'll need to prepare the meat mixture. This typically includes ground beef, eggs, breadcrumbs, and various seasonings. You can also add cheese to the mixture for a cheesy meatloaf. Simply combine all the ingredients in a large bowl and mix until they are well incorporated.

Step 2: Shape the Meatloaf

To shape the meatloaf, use your hands to form the meat mixture into a loaf shape. You can do this directly on a baking sheet or in a loaf pan. If using a loaf pan, line it with foil or grease it lightly to prevent sticking. Pack the meat mixture tightly into the pan or shape it into an 8-inch by 4-inch loaf on the baking sheet.

Step 3: Create a Well for the Cheese (Optional)

If you want to add a cheesy surprise to your meatloaf, create a well in the centre of the shaped meat mixture. Leave a 1/2-inch wall on each side and carve out a well about 5 inches long and 1 inch wide. Set the excess meat mixture aside. This step is optional, but it creates a delicious cheese filling in your meatloaf.

Step 4: Add the Cheese

Fill the well with shredded or cubed cheese. You can use a variety of cheeses such as Havarti, cheddar, gouda, Swiss, Colby, or Monterey Jack. Using shredded cheese will create a melty, gooey centre, while cubed cheese will result in pockets of cheesy goodness.

Step 5: Seal the Cheese and Shape the Loaf

Use the reserved meat mixture to carefully cover and seal the cheese. This step is crucial to prevent the cheese from oozing out during baking. Once the cheese is sealed, you can shape the loaf further if needed.

Step 6: Bake the Meatloaf

Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake at a temperature between 350°F and 375°F. The baking time will vary depending on the size of your meatloaf and the temperature of your oven. For a 2-pound meatloaf, bake for about 40-60 minutes. If you've added cheese, you may need to bake it for a slightly longer time to ensure the cheese melts properly.

Step 7: Glaze the Meatloaf (Optional)

While the meatloaf is baking, you can prepare a glaze by mixing ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and/or Worcestershire sauce. About 15-30 minutes before the meatloaf is done, remove it from the oven and brush the glaze on all sides. Return the meatloaf to the oven and continue baking until it's cooked through.

Step 8: Rest and Serve

Once the meatloaf is baked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute and makes it easier to slice the meatloaf without it falling apart.

Enjoy your delicious, perfectly shaped, and baked meatloaf!

What to serve with meatloaf

Meatloaf is a classic dish that is usually served with mashed potatoes. However, there are several other sides that can be served with meatloaf. Here are some ideas:

Vegetables

Roasted vegetables such as carrots, green beans, and bell peppers can add a burst of colour to your plate. The caramelized edges of roasted veggies bring out their natural sweetness, which pairs nicely with the savoury notes of the meatloaf. You could also serve garlic-infused green beans, or roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon.

Salad

A crisp Caesar salad can also make a nice pairing with meatloaf. The crisp lettuce, tangy dressing, and crunchy croutons provide a nice contrast to the dense meatloaf.

Rice and Pasta

Rice pilaf is a good option, especially with a side of steamed vegetables. You could also serve pasta, like buttered egg noodles or macaroni and cheese.

Beans

Baked beans are sweet, smoky, and savoury, so they're perfect for pairing with meat. This no-fuss side dish is easy to make and simple to serve.

Bread

Cornbread is a quick and simple option, or you could make mini-quiches to go with your meatloaf.

How to store and reheat leftover meatloaf

If you have leftover meatloaf, you can store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

When it comes to reheating meatloaf, there are several methods you can use to ensure your meatloaf is heated through without drying out.

Reheating in the Oven

The oven is the best way to reheat meatloaf, as it guarantees even heating. Here's what to do:

• Preheat your oven to between 225°F and 350°F.
• Place your leftover meatloaf in a shallow baking dish.
• Add 1-2 tablespoons of water or beef broth to the dish to prevent the meat from drying out.
• Cover the dish with aluminium foil and place it on the centre rack of the oven.
• Reheat for 15-30 minutes, depending on the size of your meatloaf.
• Uncover the meatloaf for the last 5 minutes of cooking to allow the top to crisp up.

Reheating in the Microwave

The microwave is the easiest way to reheat meatloaf, especially if you are only reheating a few slices. Here's what to do:

• Place meatloaf slices in a single layer on a microwave-safe plate. Do not reheat a whole meatloaf in the microwave.
• Cover the plate with a damp paper towel to prevent the meat from drying out.
• Reheat on a low setting for 1 minute.
• Check the internal temperature of the meatloaf. It should be 165°F.
• If the meatloaf is not hot enough, place it back in the microwave and reheat in 30-second increments.

Reheating in the Air Fryer

The air fryer is a good option, too, especially if you used it to cook your meatloaf. Here's what to do:

• Preheat your air fryer to 350°F.
• Line the basket with air fryer parchment paper and spray both sides of your meatloaf slices with cooking spray.
• Reheat meatloaf slices for 3-5 minutes.

Reheating in a Skillet

The skillet is another great tool for reheating meatloaf slices. Here's what to do:

• Preheat your skillet with oil, butter or bacon grease.
• Choose a temperature setting depending on your desired consistency. For crisp edges, use medium heat. For a more tender meatloaf, use medium-low heat.
• Add the meatloaf slices to the skillet and flip them occasionally to ensure even cooking.
• If your pan starts to get dry, add 1-2 tablespoons of water or beef broth.
• Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meatloaf. It should be 165°F.

Frequently asked questions