Meatloaf Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Meatloaf grilled cheese sandwich: Prepare to experience a flavor explosion that will redefine your definition of comfort food! Imagine the savory, slightly sweet notes of classic meatloaf, perfectly complemented by the gooey, melted cheese nestled between slices of golden-brown, toasted bread. This isn’t just a sandwich; it’s a culinary adventure that takes two beloved dishes and elevates them to a whole new level of deliciousness.

While the exact origins of the meatloaf grilled cheese sandwich are shrouded in mystery (perhaps a late-night craving gone wonderfully right?), it’s a testament to the human desire to innovate and improve upon classic flavors. Meatloaf itself has roots in ancient Roman cuisine, evolving over centuries into the comforting staple we know and love today. The grilled cheese, a simpler pleasure, gained popularity in the United States during the 1920s. Combining these two iconic dishes creates a symphony of textures and tastes that’s both familiar and exciting.

People adore this sandwich for its incredible flavor profile. The richness of the meatloaf, often seasoned with herbs and spices, pairs beautifully with the creamy, melted cheese. The crispiness of the grilled bread adds a delightful textural contrast. It’s also incredibly convenient – a fantastic way to use up leftover meatloaf and transform it into a satisfying and unforgettable meal. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll be hooked!

Ingredients:

• For the Meatloaf:
• 1.5 lbs Ground Beef (80/20 blend recommended for flavor)
• 1/2 lb Ground Pork (optional, but adds richness)
• 1 cup Bread Crumbs (plain or Italian seasoned)
• 1/2 cup Milk (any kind will work)
• 1 large Egg, lightly beaten
• 1/2 cup Onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup Green Bell Pepper, finely chopped
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup Ketchup
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce
• 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard
• 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon Dried Rosemary
• 1/2 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
• Salt and Black Pepper to taste
• For the Grilled Cheese:
• 8 slices Sourdough Bread (or your favorite bread for grilled cheese)
• 8 slices Cheddar Cheese (sharp or mild, your preference)
• 4 tablespoons Butter, softened
• Optional: Caramelized Onions (recipe follows)
• Optional: Spicy Mustard (for spreading)
• For the Caramelized Onions (Optional):
• 2 large Yellow Onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
• 1 tablespoon Butter
• 1/2 teaspoon Brown Sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon Salt
• 1/4 cup Balsamic Vinegar (optional, for deglazing)

Making the Meatloaf:

1. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef and ground pork (if using). Gently break up the meat with your hands.
2. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard.
3. Add Aromatics: Add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic to the meat mixture.
4. Incorporate Bread Crumbs and Spices: Sprinkle the bread crumbs, dried thyme, dried rosemary, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper over the meat mixture.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the wet ingredients over the meat mixture. Gently mix everything together with your hands until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
6. Shape the Meatloaf: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan (approximately 9×5 inches). Transfer the meatloaf mixture to the prepared loaf pan and gently press it down to create an even surface.
7. Bake the Meatloaf: Bake for 60-75 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
8. Rest the Meatloaf: Once cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more moist and flavorful meatloaf.
9. Slice the Meatloaf: Carefully remove the meatloaf from the loaf pan and slice it into approximately 1/2-inch thick slices. You’ll need about 8 slices for the grilled cheese sandwiches. If you have leftover meatloaf, it’s great for sandwiches the next day!

Making the Caramelized Onions (Optional):

1. Prepare the Onions: Peel and thinly slice the yellow onions. The thinner the slices, the faster they will caramelize.
2. Sauté the Onions: Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and salt. Stir to coat the onions with the oil and butter.
3. Caramelize the Onions: Cook the onions, stirring occasionally, for about 30-45 minutes, or until they are a deep golden brown color and very soft. The key to caramelizing onions is patience. Don’t rush the process by turning up the heat, as this will only burn them. You want them to slowly cook down and release their natural sugars.
4. Deglaze the Pan (Optional): If you want to add a little extra flavor, you can deglaze the pan with balsamic vinegar during the last few minutes of cooking. Pour the balsamic vinegar into the skillet and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Cook for a minute or two until the vinegar has reduced slightly.
5. Cool Slightly: Remove the caramelized onions from the heat and let them cool slightly before using them in the grilled cheese sandwiches.

Assembling the Meatloaf Grilled Cheese Sandwiches:

1. Prepare the Bread: Lightly butter one side of each slice of sourdough bread. This will be the outside of the sandwich.
2. Assemble the Sandwiches: Place four slices of bread, butter-side down, on a clean work surface.
3. Add Cheese: Top each slice of bread with two slices of cheddar cheese. Make sure the cheese covers the entire surface of the bread.
4. Add Meatloaf: Place two slices of meatloaf on top of the cheese on each sandwich.
5. Add Caramelized Onions (Optional): If using, spread a generous amount of caramelized onions over the meatloaf.
6. Add Spicy Mustard (Optional): If using, spread a thin layer of spicy mustard on the remaining slices of bread.
7. Top with Bread: Place the remaining slices of bread on top of the meatloaf and cheese, butter-side up.

Cooking the Grilled Cheese Sandwiches:

1. Heat the Skillet: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Grill the Sandwiches: Place the sandwiches in the hot skillet, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. You may need to cook them in batches.
3. Press the Sandwiches: Use a spatula to gently press down on the sandwiches. This will help them cook evenly and melt the cheese.
4. Cook Until Golden Brown: Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted and gooey.
5. Serve Immediately: Remove the grilled cheese sandwiches from the skillet and cut them in half. Serve immediately while they are still hot and cheesy.

Tips for the Best Meatloaf Grilled Cheese:

• Don’t Overmix the Meatloaf: Overmixing the meatloaf can result in a tough and dense texture. Gently combine the ingredients until just combined.
• Use Good Quality Cheese: The cheese is a key component of a grilled cheese sandwich, so use a good quality cheddar cheese that melts well.
• Don’t Burn the Bread: Keep the heat at medium to prevent the bread from burning before the cheese has a chance to melt.
• Use a Non-Stick Skillet: A non-stick skillet will prevent the sandwiches from sticking and make them easier to flip.
• Experiment with Different Cheeses: Try using different types of cheese, such as Gruyere, Swiss, or Monterey Jack, to create different flavor combinations.
• Add Other Toppings: Get creative and add other toppings to your grilled cheese sandwiches, such as bacon, avocado, or sliced tomatoes.
• Make it a Meal: Serve the meatloaf grilled cheese sandwiches with a side of tomato soup or a simple salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Variations:

• Spicy Meatloaf Grilled Cheese: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meatloaf mixture for a spicy kick.
• BBQ Meatloaf Grilled Cheese: Use BBQ sauce instead of ketchup in the meatloaf mixture.
• Meatloaf Melt: Use a panini press to create a meatloaf melt instead of a grilled cheese sandwich.
• Open-Faced Meatloaf Grilled Cheese: Grill one slice of bread with cheese and meatloaf, then top with another slice of bread.

Storage:

• Meatloaf: Leftover meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: Grilled cheese sandwiches are best eaten immediately, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven until warmed through.

Conclusion:

So there you have it! This isn’t just any grilled cheese; it’s a Meatloaf Grilled Cheese Sandwich experience, a symphony of savory comfort food that will redefine your lunch game. I know, I know, it sounds a little wild, but trust me on this one. The combination of the warm, melty cheese, the slightly sweet and savory meatloaf, and the perfectly toasted bread is simply divine. It’s the kind of sandwich that makes you close your eyes and savor every single bite.

Why is this a must-try? Because it’s unexpected, it’s delicious, and it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover meatloaf! We all know the struggle of figuring out what to do with those delicious leftovers, and this recipe solves that problem in the most satisfying way possible. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make. Seriously, if you can make a grilled cheese, you can conquer this masterpiece. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, a weekend lunch, or even a late-night snack.

But the best part? It’s totally customizable! Feel free to get creative with your cheese choices. Sharp cheddar is a classic, but provolone, Gruyere, or even a pepper jack would be amazing. Want to add a little kick? A smear of sriracha mayo or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes will do the trick. For a sweeter touch, consider adding a thin layer of caramelized onions or a drizzle of balsamic glaze.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* Serve it with a side of tomato soup for the ultimate comfort food pairing.
* Add a pickle spear or some coleslaw for a bit of tang and crunch.
* Cut it into smaller pieces and serve as appetizers at your next gathering.
* For a vegetarian option, try using a lentil loaf or a plant-based meatloaf alternative.
* Experiment with different breads! Sourdough, rye, or even brioche would be fantastic.
* Consider adding a thin layer of your favorite barbecue sauce to the meatloaf before assembling the sandwich.
* For a truly decadent experience, try grilling the sandwich in butter instead of olive oil.

I’m genuinely excited for you to try this recipe. I truly believe that this Meatloaf Grilled Cheese Sandwich will become a new favorite in your household. It’s a fun, flavorful, and satisfying way to enjoy a classic comfort food with a delicious twist.

So, what are you waiting for? Head to your kitchen, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create a sandwich that will blow your mind. And when you do, please, please, please share your experience! I’d love to hear what you think, what variations you tried, and how much you enjoyed it. Tag me in your photos on social media, leave a comment below, or send me an email. I can’t wait to see your creations! Happy grilling! I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do!

---