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**Cheesy Meatloaf with Cheddar & Thyme: A Flavorful Twist on a Classic Favorite**
Meatloaf is a staple of comfort food, beloved for its heartiness and versatility. But if you’re looking to elevate this traditional dish with an extra burst of flavor, **Cheesy Meatloaf with Cheddar & Thyme** is the perfect recipe to try! This version of meatloaf incorporates the rich, melty goodness of cheddar cheese and the fragrant, earthy flavor of fresh thyme, making it a delicious twist on the classic.
Whether you’re cooking for your family on a cozy weeknight or preparing for a special dinner, this cheesy meatloaf will be a hit every time. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how easy it is to make this scrumptious dish!
### Why You’ll Love Cheesy Meatloaf with Cheddar & Thyme
– **Loaded with Flavor**: The cheddar cheese melts into the meatloaf, adding richness and gooey goodness, while the thyme infuses the dish with an aromatic depth.
– **Perfectly Moist**: This meatloaf stays juicy and tender thanks to the added cheese, making it far from dry or bland.
– **Simple Ingredients**: Despite its elevated taste, this cheesy meatloaf is made with everyday ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.
– **Kid-Friendly**: The combination of cheese and savory flavors makes it a surefire hit with kids and adults alike.
– **Versatile**: Serve it with mashed potatoes, a side salad, or roasted veggies for a complete, comforting meal.
### Ingredients for Cheesy Meatloaf with Cheddar & Thyme
#### For the Meatloaf:
– **1 ½ pounds ground beef** (you can use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version)
– **1 small onion** (finely chopped)
– **2 cloves garlic** (minced)
– **1 cup breadcrumbs** (preferably fresh breadcrumbs)
– **1 large egg**
– **¾ cup milk**
– **½ cup cheddar cheese** (shredded, plus extra for topping)
– **2 tablespoons fresh thyme** (finely chopped, or 2 teaspoons dried thyme)
– **1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce**
– **Salt and pepper** (to taste)
#### For the Topping:
– **1 tablespoon ketchup** (optional for a classic meatloaf glaze)
– **¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese** (for topping)
### 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
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