This Meatloaf Sandwich is a cozy classic! It features a thick, juicy slice of meatloaf stacked between two soft pieces of bread, topped with your favorite goodies.
Honestly, who can resist a flavorsome meatloaf in a sandwich? It’s my go-to for leftovers! I often add a touch of ketchup for a sweet kick—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main protein. If you want a leaner option, use ground turkey or chicken instead. They keep well and can give a nice flavor when seasoned well.
Breadcrumbs: For binding, you can use stale bread, crushed crackers, or even oats as gluten-free options. They help to keep the meatloaf moist!
Milk: If you’re lactose intolerant, almond or soy milk will work just fine. I’ve used both and you won’t notice a big difference.
Swiss Cheese: It adds a nice creaminess. If you’re looking for alternatives, provolone or cheddar can substitute nicely and offer a different flavor profile.
Onions: Fresh onions enhance flavor, but you can use onion powder if you prefer a quicker option. I love sautéing onions for added sweetness!
How Do I Get the Meatloaf Just Right?
Making meatloaf can seem tricky, but it’s all about mixing and baking correctly. You want to mix until combined, but don’t overdo it or it may get tough. Here’s how to nail it:
- Gently mix the ingredients, making sure not to squish the meat too much.
- Shape your meatloaf loosely, it helps keep it tender during baking.
- Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. Look for 160°F (71°C) for perfect doneness.
Once baked, let the meatloaf cool a bit before slicing. This helps it hold together better for your sandwich!
How to Make the Perfect Meatloaf Sandwich
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Meatloaf:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- For the Sandwich:
- 4 slices white or sourdough bread
- 2 slices Swiss cheese (or your choice of cheese)
- Butter, for toasting bread
- Ketchup or barbecue sauce, for serving (optional)
- Sautéed onions (about 1/4 cup), optional
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meatloaf sandwich will take about 15 minutes to prep and about 55 minutes to cook, totaling around 1 hour and 10 minutes. After that, you have the fun of assembling your sandwich!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatloaf:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix gently but thoroughly until everything is evenly combined.
2. Shape and Bake:
Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it on a baking sheet or in a loaf pan. Bake your meatloaf in the preheated oven for about 45-55 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). This ensures it’s fully cooked.
3. Sauté Onions:
While the meatloaf bakes, let’s work on some tasty sautéed onions! In a skillet over medium heat, add a little butter and sauté the chopped onions until they are golden and caramelized. This adds a wonderful sweetness to your sandwich. Set them aside before you’re ready to assemble.
4. Slice the Meatloaf:
Once the meatloaf is done baking, let it cool for a few minutes. Then, slice it into thick pieces that fit nicely on your bread.
5. Toast the Bread:
Butter one side of each slice of bread. In the same skillet you used for the onions, place two slices of bread, buttered side down, over medium heat. This will give your sandwich a nice golden crust.
6. Assemble the Sandwich:
On each slice of bread, layer a hearty slice of the meatloaf, some sautéed onions (if using), and a slice of Swiss cheese. Then, place another slice of bread on top, butter side up.
7. Grill the Sandwich:
Grill your sandwich for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted. You can press slightly with a spatula to help everything meld together.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
When your sandwiches are ready, remove them from the skillet and slice them in half. Serve with ketchup or barbecue sauce on the side for dipping if you like. Enjoy your warm, hearty Meatloaf Sandwich!
Can I Use Leftover Meatloaf for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Using leftover meatloaf is a great way to make this sandwich quickly. Just slice it thin and heat it in the skillet with the onions for a few minutes to warm it through before assembling your sandwich.
What Substitutions Can I Make for the Bread?
If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try using gluten-free bread. For a healthier alternative, whole grain or whole wheat bread adds nutrition and a nutty flavor. Feel free to experiment with different types of bread, like ciabatta or a hoagie roll!
How Can I Make This Sandwich More Flavorful?
To amp up the flavor, consider adding toppings like pickles, mustard, or even a slice of tomato. For a spicy kick, add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce inside the sandwich as you assemble it.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you have leftover assembled sandwiches, it’s best to store the meatloaf and bread separately to keep the bread from getting soggy. Reheat meatloaf in the microwave or skillet before assembling or enjoying cold!