Cheesy Meatloaf with Cheddar & Thyme

Instructions for Making Cheesy Meatloaf with Cheddar & Thyme

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, and egg. Add the milk, cheddar cheese, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper, then stir everything together until well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf dense.

Step 3: Shape the Meatloaf

Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared baking dish or loaf pan. Use your hands to shape it into a loaf. If you’re using a baking dish, you can form the meat mixture into a free-standing loaf shape.

Step 4: Add the Topping (Optional)

If you like a slightly sweet and tangy glaze on your meatloaf, spread a thin layer of ketchup over the top. This will give the meatloaf a nice finish while baking. For extra cheesiness, sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top of the loaf.

Step 5: Bake the Meatloaf

Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for about 45-55 minutes. The meatloaf should be golden on top and cooked through. You can check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer—it should read 160°F (71°C) when done.

Step 6: Rest Before Serving

Once the meatloaf is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making it easier to slice without falling apart. Slice the meatloaf into thick, hearty portions.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve the cheesy meatloaf with your favorite sides. It pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple side salad. The rich, cheesy flavor combined with the fresh thyme will leave everyone coming back for seconds.

Tips for the Best Cheesy Meatloaf

• Use Fresh Thyme: Fresh thyme gives the meatloaf a vibrant flavor, but if you only have dried thyme, use about 2 teaspoons instead of the 2 tablespoons of fresh thyme.
• Don’t Overmix: When mixing the meatloaf ingredients, be gentle. Overworking the meat can result in a tough texture.
• Add More Cheese: If you’re a fan of extra cheese, feel free to add more cheddar to the meat mixture or on top of the loaf for an even cheesier version.
• Try Different Cheeses: While cheddar is the star of this recipe, you can mix in other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or parmesan for a different flavor profile.
• Make it Ahead: You can prepare the meatloaf mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for a few hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld together even more, and it’s a great way to save time on busy nights.
• Use Leaner Meat: For a lighter version, swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. Keep in mind that leaner meat may require a bit more seasoning to maintain the flavor.

Why You’ll Want to Make This Cheesy Meatloaf

Cheesy Meatloaf with Cheddar & Thyme is a flavorful twist on a classic dish that everyone loves. It’s rich, savory, and perfectly cheesy, with the fresh thyme adding a subtle herby note that enhances the flavor of the meat. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or preparing a cozy dinner for two, this meatloaf will not disappoint.

The combination of cheese and thyme not only makes it a delicious meal but also brings out the comforting, nostalgic flavors of traditional meatloaf. Easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy, it’s the kind of dish you’ll want to make again and again.

So why not give this recipe a try? With its simple ingredients and irresistible flavors, Cheesy Meatloaf with Cheddar & Thyme is sure to become a new family favorite. Serve it up with your favorite sides, and enjoy a comforting meal that’s guaranteed to satisfy!