Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and spray a large loaf pan with cooking spray.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onions, green bell pepper, and minced mushrooms. Season with salt and pepper. Sauté for 1–2 minutes without stirring, letting the vegetables begin to brown. Stir, then cook another 1–2 minutes until nicely caramelized. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, eggs, panko breadcrumbs, and the cooled vegetable mixture. Mix gently until evenly combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.
- Divide the meat mixture in half. Press half of it into the prepared loaf pan to form a flat base.
- Arrange half of the Provolone cheese slices in a 2-inch wide strip down the center of the loaf. Cut slices into thirds if needed for proper width.
- Cover the cheese with the remaining meat mixture, gently molding it into a rounded loaf shape to enclose the cheese completely.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes. Remove from the oven and layer the remaining cheese slices on top of the loaf. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes until the cheese is melted and the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute and the cheese to set slightly, making it easier to serve.
- Slice and serve warm with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55–60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15–20 minutes
- Servings: 6–8
- Difficulty: Medium
Variations & Substitutions
- Use mozzarella or Swiss cheese for a different melty center
- Swap ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version
- Add caramelized onions on top for extra sweetness and flavor
- Mix fresh herbs such as thyme or parsley into the meat for added aroma
Serving Suggestions
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