Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a dish that’s bursting with flavor and comfort? Introducing the Spicy Cheesy Meat Loaf with Caramelized Onions—a culinary masterpiece that promises to tantalize your taste buds and leave your family begging for seconds! This American classic takes a delicious twist with a spicy kick and gooey cheese, making it the perfect centerpiece for your next family gathering or cozy weeknight dinner. With just 15 minutes of prep time and a heavenly aroma wafting through your kitchen, you won't want to miss out on this savory delight. Dive into our recipe and discover how to create a meatloaf that’s anything but ordinary!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your meatloaf cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 lb of ground beef, 1 cup of breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup of shredded cheese, and 1/2 cup of diced onion. Make sure the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the mixture for a cheesy flavor in every bite.
- Add 1/4 cup of ketchup, 1 tbsp of Worcestershire sauce, 1 tsp of cayenne pepper, and salt and black pepper to taste. The Worcestershire sauce adds depth of flavor, while the cayenne pepper gives it a spicy kick.
- Using your hands, mix all the ingredients together until well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
- Transfer the meat mixture into a loaf pan, shaping it into a loaf form. Smooth the top with a spatula or the back of a spoon for a nice presentation.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add a little oil and sauté the diced onions until they are caramelized, about 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
- Once the onions are caramelized, remove them from the heat and let them cool slightly before adding them to the meatloaf mixture. Fold the caramelized onions into the meat mixture gently.
- Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Once cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, making the meatloaf more tender.
- Slice the meatloaf into thick pieces and serve warm. You can garnish with additional shredded cheese on top or a drizzle of ketchup if desired.
Tips
- Choose Quality Meat: For the best flavor and texture, opt for ground beef with a fat content of around 80/
- This will keep your meatloaf juicy and flavorful.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a dense and tough meatloaf.
- Customize Your Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different types of shredded cheese, such as cheddar, pepper jack, or mozzarella, to suit your taste preferences.
- Sauté the Onions: Caramelizing the onions adds a rich sweetness that balances the spice. Make sure to stir them occasionally and keep an eye on the heat to avoid burning.
- Let It Rest: After baking, allow the meatloaf to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful.
- Serve with Style: Elevate your presentation by garnishing with fresh herbs or an extra sprinkle of cheese. A side of mashed potatoes or a fresh salad pairs wonderfully with this dish!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 444kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 80mg
