Meatloaf Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Category: Dinner Ideas That Actually Work

Layers of ground beef blended with tangy BBQ sauce, onions, and bread crumbs deliver a savory centerpiece. Slices of this flavorful loaf are tucked between thick, buttery bread and gooey pepper jack, then crisped to golden perfection on a hot skillet. Each bite features a comforting mix of tender meat, rich cheese, and a hint of spice, making it a top choice for anyone craving classic American comfort. This grilled sandwich is both filling and easy to prepare, ideal for dinner or a hearty lunch enjoyed fresh from the pan.

Clare Recipes
Created By Lily Chen
Updated on Mon, 16 Jun 2025 19:24:23 GMT
A grilled cheese sandwich with meatloaf in the middle. Save
A grilled cheese sandwich with meatloaf in the middle. | lilicooks.com

If you have leftover meatloaf in the fridge or want a comfort food twist for your next lunch, this Meatloaf Grilled Cheese recipe delivers serious satisfaction. It layers savory homemade meatloaf with gooey pepper jack cheese between toasted buttery bread for the ultimate hearty sandwich you will want to make again and again.

I actually discovered this recipe when I was craving grilled cheese but wanted something a little more filling. Now it is in regular rotation for my family and is always the first thing my friends request when they visit.

Ingredients

  • Ground beef: Choose eighty twenty for the right balance of flavor and moisture
  • Egg: Gives structure to the meatloaf so it holds up in slices
  • Mustard: Adds tang and helps cut through the richness
  • BBQ sauce: Brings smoky sweetness and helps keep the meatloaf juicy
  • Garlic powder: Lends warmth and depth
  • Black pepper: For seasoning the whole loaf
  • Minced onion: Sweetens the meatloaf and gives it a nice bite Choose fresh onion for the best flavor
  • Bread crumbs: Soak up juices and give the loaf tender texture Go for unseasoned to control the flavors
  • Pepper jack cheese: Melts well and adds a slight spice Try to use freshly sliced from the deli if you can
  • Bread: Sturdy sandwich bread helps hold everything together Go for something hearty like sourdough or country white

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Meatloaf:
Mix ground beef egg mustard BBQ sauce garlic powder black pepper and minced onion together until just combined Try not to overmix or the loaf can get tough
Add the Bread Crumbs:
Sprinkle bread crumbs over your mixture and fold in gently until evenly combined This is the secret to locking in moisture
Shape and Bake:
Form the mixture into an oval loaf that fits your baking pan Spread a little extra BBQ sauce on top for extra flavor Cover with foil and bake at three seventy five for about forty five minutes or until cooked through
Rest and Slice:
Take the meatloaf out and let it rest on a plate for twenty minutes This step is crucial for firm clean slices that hold together in your sandwich
Build the Sandwich:
Butter one side of each slice of bread Place one slice buttered side down in a skillet over medium heat Add a slice of pepper jack cheese then a thick layer of sliced meatloaf Top with another piece of cheese then the second slice of bread buttered side up
Grill the Sandwich:
Cook gently until the bottom bread is golden and crispy about three to four minutes Carefully flip and cook until the other side is toasted and the cheese is delightfully melted
A grilled cheese sandwich with meatloaf in the middle. Save
A grilled cheese sandwich with meatloaf in the middle. | lilicooks.com

Honestly the pepper jack cheese is my favorite part It melts like a dream and brings such a nice warmth that cuts through the richness of the beef My family always fights over the cheesiest pieces and every bite reminds me of snowy afternoons around our small kitchen table

Storage Tips

You can wrap cooled leftover sandwiches in foil and refrigerate for up to two days To reheat pop them in a skillet over low heat to keep the bread crispy and the cheese gooey If keeping only the meatloaf itself it stays good in an airtight container for up to four days

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have ground beef use ground turkey or plant-based meatloaf mix Cheddar or mozzarella can easily swap in for pepper jack If you dislike BBQ sauce try ketchup or your favorite savory spread

A stack of grilled cheese sandwiches. Save
A stack of grilled cheese sandwiches. | lilicooks.com

Serving Suggestions

These sandwiches are amazing with oven roasted fries a crunchy dill pickle or a cold slaw For a comforting dinner serve with tomato soup for dipping

Cultural Historical Context

Grilled cheese is an American staple and meatloaf is a classic family dish Combining the two is a nostalgic nod to hearty homemade meals that bring comfort and warmth to the table

Recipe FAQs

→ What kind of cheese pairs best with the meatloaf slices?

Pepper jack adds a mild spice and creamy texture, but cheddar or mozzarella also work beautifully for a milder flavor.

→ How can I ensure the bread gets golden and crisp?

Generously butter the bread before grilling. Use medium heat and press gently for a consistent golden crust.

→ Can leftover meatloaf be used in the sandwich?

Yes, leftover meatloaf works perfectly. Ensure it is thickly sliced to hold its shape between the bread layers.

→ What sauces enhance the overall flavor?

BBQ sauce offers tang and depth, while a thin spread of mustard or ketchup can add brightness to the sandwich.

→ Which bread type creates the best texture?

Sturdy white or sourdough slices hold the fillings well and toast evenly, giving the sandwich structure and crunch.

→ How do I keep the cheese perfectly melted?

Keep heat moderate and cover the pan briefly if needed, allowing the cheese to soften without overbrowning the bread.

Meatloaf Grilled Cheese

Hearty ground beef and melty cheese sandwiched between golden bread for a tasty, satisfying meal.

Preparation Time
15 min
Cooking Time
50 min
Overall Time
65 min
Created By: Lily Chen

Category: Main Dishes

Skill Level: Moderate

Cuisine Type: American

Output: 2 Serves (2 sandwiches)

Dietary Options: ~

Ingredients

01 1 pound ground beef
02 1 egg
03 1 tablespoon mustard
04 ¼ cup BBQ sauce
05 1 teaspoon garlic powder
06 ½ teaspoon black pepper
07 ⅛ cup onion, minced
08 ½ cup bread crumbs
09 4 slices pepper jack cheese
10 4 slices bread

Steps

Step 01

Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 02

In a medium bowl, combine ground beef, egg, mustard, BBQ sauce, garlic powder, black pepper, and minced onion, except for bread crumbs.

Step 03

Add bread crumbs to the mixture and mix thoroughly until well combined.

Step 04

Shape mixture into an oval loaf and place it in a 4x8-inch baking pan.

Step 05

Top the meatloaf with additional BBQ sauce, cover the pan with foil, and bake for 45 minutes or until fully cooked.

Step 06

Remove meatloaf from the oven and transfer it to a plate. Let it rest for 20 minutes.

Step 07

Slice the meatloaf into ¾-inch thick slices.

Step 08

Butter one side of each slice of bread. Place one slice of bread buttered side down into a large frying pan or skillet over medium heat. Add a slice of pepper jack cheese, followed by meatloaf slices to cover the bread, then another slice of cheese, and top with a second piece of bread, buttered side up.

Step 09

Cook until the bread is toasted, then flip the sandwich and toast the other side.

Required Tools

  • Medium mixing bowl
  • 4x8-inch baking pan
  • Large frying pan or skillet

Allergy Information

Always check each ingredient for allergens, and consult a medical professional if unsure.
  • Contains eggs
  • Contains milk (cheese)
  • Contains gluten (bread crumbs, bread)

Nutritional Information (per serving)

These details are shared for general guidance and don’t replace professional advice.
  • Calories: 750
  • Fats: 40 g
  • Carbohydrates: 55 g
  • Proteins: 38 g