Get ready for the king of all comfort food sandwiches that’s unbelievably hearty and packed with flavor. Imagine a thick, juicy slice of savory meatloaf, smothered in zesty marinara sauce, and topped with a gorgeous blanket of gooey, melted cheese, all piled onto a toasted bun. This creation is the ultimate mashup of a classic meatloaf dinner and a saucy Italian sub, delivering a truly satisfying and memorable meal.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 45 mins (includes baking time)
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
For the Savory Meatloaf Patties:
- 1 lb lean ground beef (85/15 recommended)
- 1/2 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely grated yellow onion
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For Sandwich Assembly:
- 4 slices mozzarella or provolone cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce, warmed
- 4 hearty kaiser or whole wheat buns, split
- 4 whole dill pickles, for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven & Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Make the Meatloaf Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated onion, beaten egg, minced garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to gently mix until just combined. (Be careful not to overwork the meat, as this can make it tough).
- Form and Bake Patties: Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape each one into a 1-inch thick oval or round patty, slightly larger than your buns. Place the patties on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the Patties: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the patties are cooked through and nicely browned. An instant-read thermometer should register 160°F (71°C).
- Melt the Cheese: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and place a slice of cheese on top of each meatloaf patty. Return to the oven for 2-3 minutes, just until the cheese is perfectly melted and bubbly.
- Toast the Buns: While the cheese melts, you can lightly toast the cut sides of your buns in a toaster or under the broiler for a minute until golden.
- Assemble the Sandwich: To build your masterpiece, spread a generous layer of warm marinara sauce on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Place a cheesy meatloaf patty on top, add a little more sauce if you like, and cover with the top bun.
- Garnish and Serve: For that classic deli look, spear a dill pickle through the top of each sandwich with a steak knife. Serve immediately, preferably with a side of french fries or a simple green salad.
Recipe Notes:
- Tender Meatloaf Tip: The key to a tender, juicy meatloaf patty is to avoid overmixing. Combine the ingredients with a light touch until they just come together.
- Cheese Variations: While mozzarella and provolone are classic choices for their meltiness, feel free to experiment! Sharp cheddar, Swiss, or a spicy pepper jack would all be fantastic alternatives.
- Make-Ahead Convenience: You can form the meatloaf patties up to 24 hours in advance. Store them on a plate, covered with plastic wrap, in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.
- The Right Bun is Crucial: This is a saucy, substantial sandwich, so choose a sturdy bun like a kaiser, ciabatta, or brioche roll that can hold everything together without falling apart.
- Sauce Customization: Use your favorite store-bought marinara sauce to save time. For a little kick, stir a pinch of red pepper flakes into the sauce while it’s warming.
- Perfect Doneness: Using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure your patties are cooked safely and are still juicy. Cooking to 160°F (71°C) is perfect.
- Storing Leftovers: If you have leftover meatloaf patties, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before assembling a new sandwich.
There you have it – a messy, magnificent, and mouthwatering meal that redefines the humble sandwich! This Cheesy Meatloaf Sandwich is sure to become a household favorite for its incredible flavor and pure, unadulterated comfort. We hope you enjoy every delicious bite! Happy cooking!
Estimated Nutritional Information (per sandwich, without fries)
Calories: 680; Fat: 35g (Saturated Fat: 15g); Carbohydrates: 48g (Sugars: 12g); Protein: 42g; Sodium: 1350mg; Fiber: 5g.
Disclaimer: Nutritional information is estimated and can vary depending on specific ingredients, brands, and serving sizes used. This information is provided for guidance only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical or nutritional advice.
