Succulent and Savory: Cheesecake Factory Meatloaf Recipe

If you’re looking for a delicious and satisfying addition to your dinner menu, look no further than the iconic cheesecake factory meatloaf. This recipe is perfect for those who love classic flavors and are searching for an easy and delicious way to enjoy them.

The cheesecake factory is known for their famous meatloaf, which is usually served with mashed potatoes, grilled onions, and mushroom gravy. However, with this recipe, you can recreate that tasty meatloaf at home and impress your family and friends.

This meatloaf is filled with carrots, onions, garlic, peppers, herbs, and of course ground beef and ground pork. So not only is it packed with flavor, but it’s also a great way to sneak in some veggies into your diet. The eggs and breadcrumbs help to bind it together while providing a nice texture that will make it feel like a restaurant-level dish.

With its savory blend of herbs and spices, the Cheesecake Factory inspired meatloaf recipe will stick together perfectly as you slice it into mouth-watering pieces. So why not give this recipe a try? It’s a tasty and hearty meal that is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cheesecake Factory Meatloaf
Cheesecake Factory Meatloaf

If you’re a fan of savory meatloaf and crave the flavors of the famous Cheesecake Factory, you won’t be able to resist this recipe. The cheesecake factory meatloaf recipe is inspired by the famous factory meatloaf that is a menu favorite at the restaurant chain. This recipe brings together all the classic flavors of meatloaf, including ground beef, pork, breadcrumbs, onions, garlic, peppers and herbs. It is easy to prepare and uses ingredients that are readily available in any kitchen.

What sets this recipe apart from others is its unique combination of ingredients. The addition of cheddar cheese and large-curd cottage cheese gives it a rich and creamy texture that will leave you wanting more. The use of Dijon mustard and dry red wine adds a hint of tanginess and depth to the sauce that complements the flavors of the meatloaf perfectly.

The recipe is versatile and can easily be customized to your preferences. You can substitute ground veal or turkey for the ground pork or beef. You can also add chopped carrots or bell peppers to give it some extra nutrients and color.

This recipe is not only delicious but also healthy as it uses lean ground beef and pork instead of fatty options. It is also gluten-free since it uses almond flour instead of bread crumbs.

Trust me; this meatloaf will stick together in perfect harmony with eggs and breadcrumbs, making it a flavorful centerpiece for any dinner table. The end result is a tasty meatloaf that will leave you feeling satisfied and happy.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for an easy yet delicious way to enjoy classic flavors without spending a fortune on eating out, then this Cheesecake Factory-inspired meatloaf recipe is definitely worth trying.

Ingredient List

Get Your Ingredients Ready

To make the famous Cheesecake Factory inspired meatloaf, we need to gather a few ingredients that are widely available in supermarkets. Don’t worry; you won’t have to break the bank to try this tasty meatloaf. In fact, most of the ingredients in the list are probably already in your pantry. Let’s take a look at what we need:

  • Lean ground beef: 1 pound
  • Ground pork: 1 pound
  • Large-curd cottage cheese: 4 cups (or one 32 oz container)
  • Cheddar cheese: 2 cups shredded
  • Green bell pepper: 2, diced
  • Red bell pepper: 1, diced
  • Onion: 1 large, chopped
  • Garlic cloves: 3, minced
  • Carrots: 1, chopped
  • Dijon mustard: 2 tablespoons
  • Tomato sauce: 1 cup
  • Beef broth: 1 cup
  • Dry red wine: ½ cup
  • Eggs: 3 large, beaten
  • Breadcrumbs: 1 and ½ cups
  • Salt and black pepper: To taste

Note that if you don’t eat pork or don’t want to use it for this recipe, you can replace it with an equal amount of lean ground beef or ground veal.

The Recipe How-To

After a thorough search for the perfect recipe, I finally found The Cheesecake Factory Meatloaf Recipe. Meatloaf is like a magic dish that can be filled with carrots, onions, garlic, peppers, and herbs – all of which go well together. Making it is quite simple, really. Here’s how to do it.

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • 1 pound ground pork
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup large-curd cottage cheese
  • 2 eggs
  • â…“ cup dry red wine
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 2 tablespoons minced onion
  • 2 tablespoons minced green pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • â…” cup fresh breadcrumbs

For the Sauce:

  • 2 cups tomato sauce
  • 3 tablespoons minced onion
  • 3 tablespoons dry red wine

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, cheddar cheese, cottage cheese, eggs, red wine, mustard, onion, green pepper, salt, black pepper and breadcrumbs.
  3. Make sure everything is mixed properly and even with your hands.
  4. Put the meat mixture in a loaf pan.
  5. Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes.
  6. Meanwhile, make the sauce by mixing tomato sauce with minced onion and red wine in a small saucepan.
  7. Over low heat, cook the sauce for about 10 minutes until well mixed.
  8. Take your meatloaf out of the oven after these 40 minutes, turn up your oven temperature to 400 degrees F and let it bake for an additional 10 minutes over this temperature before brushing well with your prepared sauce; then let it bake for another 10 minutes at this extra temperature.
  9. When you remove from oven allow it cool for some seconds.
  10. Serve with your mashed potatoes alongside some grilled onions complemented with some mushroom gravy on top.

This cheesecake factory meatloaf recipe surely appeals if you’re searching for an easy yet delicious way to enjoy classic flavors that stick together just right– like me!

Substitutions and Variations

One of the great things about the Cheesecake Factory meatloaf is its versatility. Depending on your preferences and dietary restrictions, there are several substitutions and variations that you can make to this classic dish.

If you want to make this recipe healthier, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef and pork. You can also use a low-fat cottage cheese and reduce the amount of cheddar cheese or omit it altogether. For those who are gluten-free, swapping out breadcrumbs with almond flour or cornmeal will work as well.

If you want to add a bit of spice to your meatloaf, try adding diced jalapeno or chili flakes to the mix. You can also swap out some of the tomato sauce for diced tomatoes with green chilies.

For a vegetarian version of this recipe, you can replace the beef and pork with a combination of protein-rich lentils and quinoa. Vegetables such as grated zucchini or shredded carrots could also add texture and flavor to the dish.

If you’re looking for more creative ways to enjoy the flavors of Cheesecake Factory’s famous meatloaf, you can experiment with toppings like grilled onions or mushroom gravy. Serving it with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables could also complement the flavors of the meatloaf.

The beauty of this recipe is its adaptability. Feel free to get creative and make it your own!

Serving and Pairing

This delicious meatloaf recipe from the Cheesecake Factory is incredibly versatile when it comes to pairing and serving options. Serve it with a side of mashed potatoes or a fresh garden salad, and you’ve got a hearty meal that’s sure to be enjoyed by all.

For those who prefer a more indulgent pairing, try topping your meatloaf with some grilled onions and a generous ladle of mushroom gravy. The savory flavors of the meatloaf are complimented perfectly by the rich umami notes of the sauce.

If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider serving your meatloaf with some steamed vegetables such as broccoli, carrots or green beans. The bright and fresh flavors of the veggies help to balance out the heartiness of the dish.

If you’re looking for some additional flavor and texture, try adding some spicy pepper relish or tangy tomato sauce to your plate. These sauces add an extra layer of depth to every bite, creating a more complex and satisfying eating experience.

Overall, this meatloaf recipe offers plenty of opportunities for creativity when it comes to serving and pairing options. Try experimenting with different sides, sauces and toppings until you find the perfect combination that suits your palate.

Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating

While meatloaf is a dish best served fresh, it can be made ahead of time and stored properly for future meals. The Cheesecake Factory meatloaf recipe can be prepared a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to reheat. This is especially helpful for those with a busy schedule or who want to prepare meals in advance.

To make the most out of your leftover meatloaf, it’s important to store it properly. Let the meatloaf cool down to room temperature before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can also be placed in an airtight container for storage in the refrigerator. Meatloaf can stay fresh for up to four days in the refrigerator.

If you don’t plan on consuming the leftovers within four days, you can also freeze them for later consumption. Wrap each slice or the whole loaf with multiple layers of plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in a freezer-safe bag. Properly stored meatloaf can stay fresh for up to three months.

When reheating meatloaf, make sure to do it slowly and carefully to maintain its texture and moisture. You can reheat slices of meatloaf in a microwave, but be careful not to overcook or dry them out. Alternatively, you can slice the meatloaf and heat it on a skillet with a little bit of oil. Reheat slowly over low-to-medium heat, flipping halfway through until the desired temperature is reached.

In conclusion, making meatloaf ahead of time is a great way to save time and enjoy this delicious meal on busy days. Properly storing and reheating leftovers will help ensure that they retain their flavor and texture when consumed later on. By following these tips, you can enjoy tasty meatloaf anytime from your very own kitchen!

Tips for Perfect Results

Here are some tips to ensure your Cheesecake Factory Meatloaf recipe comes out perfectly every time.

Firstly, ensure that you mix the ingredients well. The meatloaf should have a cohesive, uniform texture. Be sure to slice and chop ingredients into small pieces that are easy to blend into the meat mix.

Another important step in guaranteeing excellent results is to make sure your oven is preheated before you place your meatloaf in it. The baking time recommended at 350°F is optimized for heating an already-hot oven, so if the oven is just reaching temperature when you slide in your dish, the cooking time might need to be adjusted by ten or fifteen minutes.

Furthermore, if the mixture is too dry, add more liquid. If it’s too wet and doesn’t hold its shape, add more breadcrumbs. You may want to adjust the ingredient quantities based on the size of the dish you are using.

In addition, allow the meatloaf to rest for ten minutes after coming out of the oven, during which it will continue cooking and release any remaining moisture. This resting period also helps your meatloaf slices retain their shape when you cut them.

Finally, feel free to play around with seasonings and add-ins to suit your taste buds! The Cheesecake Factory Meatloaf Recipe is very customizable, so don’t be afraid to try different flavors as you gain confidence in this recipe.

By following these tips along with the recipe instructions listed above, you’re guaranteed a mouth-wateringly delicious homemade meatloaf that rivals even that of the famous Cheesecake Factory inspired Meatloaf itself.

FAQ

Now that you know how to make the Cheesecake Factory Meatloaf at home, it’s time to address some frequently asked questions. Here, we’ll cover everything from ingredient substitutions to serving suggestions so that you can tailor this already delicious recipe to your preferences and needs. So clear out any questions that might be lingering on your mind and let’s get started.

What is the secret to moist meatloaf?

When preparing meat dishes, it’s important to keep the moisture in mind. One trick is to include wet ingredients to add moisture at every stage of the recipe, such as eggs, ketchup, tomato paste, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, or barbecue sauce. Not only do they enhance the taste and consistency of the meat, but they also contribute to making it succulent and juicy. This simple step can improve the overall quality of the dish and leave your guests satisfied.

What ingredient keeps meatloaf from falling apart?

You might have experienced your meatloaf falling apart while cooking. This could be due to the lack of binding agents, such as eggs and breadcrumbs, in the meat mixture. These ingredients play a crucial role in keeping the meatloaf together and preventing it from crumbling while cooking. It’s important to use enough eggs and breadcrumbs to provide adequate binding and stability to your meatloaf.

What is the binder in meatloaf?

When it comes to crafting the perfect meatloaf, it’s crucial that it holds its form and satisfies your hunger. To achieve this, Arturo suggests incorporating a panade into the recipe. A panade is a combination of milk, eggs, and breadcrumbs that not only helps to bind everything together but also ensures the meatloaf remains moist and succulent.

What is Cracker Barrel meatloaf made of?

Get ready to sink your teeth into a mouth-watering meatloaf dish that is sure to satisfy your cravings. This recipe calls for some flavorful ingredients such as lean ground beef, sauteed veggies, buttery Ritz crackers, sharp cheddar cheese, eggs, milk, and a delectable glaze made from ketchup and brown sugar. Along with these ingredients, there are a few insider tips to guarantee your meatloaf comes out tender and juicy – you’ll find out what those are in just a bit. So, let’s get started on making this meatloaf that will have your taste buds dancing with joy!

Bottom Line

In conclusion, if you want to enjoy a delicious, hearty meal that everyone in your family will love, you can never go wrong with the Cheesecake Factory Meatloaf Recipe. With its unique blend of ground beef, pork, and vegetables, it offers a succulent and savory taste that is sure to please every palate.

Whether you’re hosting a large family gathering or just whipping up a casual dinner on a weeknight, this recipe will stick together perfectly and offer you the kind of meal that is filling, flavorful, and totally satisfying. So don’t wait any longer – try out this recipe today and you’ll be amazed at how easy and enjoyable it is to enjoy classic flavors from the comfort of your own home.

Cheesecake Factory Meatloaf

Cheesecake Factory Meatloaf Recipe

I absolutely love their meatloaf and I found this copycat recipe online. I haven't tried it yet, but I plan to very soon! **Update - ok so I made this last night and I must say it came out pretty good. My wife loved it, she'd probably give it 5 stars, I'd lean more towards the 4 star rating. Also the cook time was off, I think next time I'll cook it at 375 instead of 350, and I recommend a 5-8 minute broil at the end to crisp up the top. Enjoy!
No ratings yet
Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 1 hr
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Calories 436.9 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 1/2 lb ground pork
  • 1/2 lb ground veal
  • 3/4 cup large-curd cottage cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup chopped onion
  • 1/2 cup chopped green pepper
  • 1/2 cup dry unseasoned breadcrumbs
  • 2 eggs
  • 1/3 cup tomato sauce
  • 1/4 cup dry red wine
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon salt (to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
  • Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix well.
  • Pack into a 9 x 5-inch loaf pan and bake at 350 degrees F for 50 minutes.

Your Own Notes

Nutrition

Serving: 280gCalories: 436.9kcalCarbohydrates: 11.8gProtein: 38.1gFat: 24.6gSaturated Fat: 10.2gCholesterol: 183.8mgSodium: 1609.9mgFiber: 1.4gSugar: 3.5g
Keyword < 4 Hours, Beginner Cook, Easy, Meat, Pork, Veal
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Recommended Recipes Just For You