Introduction

Blue Cheese Meatloaf is a bold, savory twist on the classic comfort food. This meatloaf combines the rich, tangy flavor of blue cheese with ground beef, aromatics, and a lightly seasoned breadcrumb mixture. The result is a tender, juicy meatloaf with pockets of creamy, flavorful cheese in every bite. Topped with a simple glaze, this dish balances richness and tanginess beautifully. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or special occasions when you want to impress with a comforting yet gourmet dish.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it takes a classic meatloaf and elevates it with the bold, tangy flavor of blue cheese. Every slice is moist, tender, and bursting with cheesy flavor, with the creamy pockets of blue cheese melting perfectly during baking. It’s sophisticated yet comforting, and the aroma of the baked meatloaf fills the kitchen with an irresistible warmth. Blue Cheese Meatloaf proves that comfort food can also be gourmet without being complicated.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This meatloaf is a must-try because it transforms ordinary dinner into a gourmet experience. Blue cheese adds a tangy depth that perfectly complements the savory beef, onions, and spices. It’s a unique twist that meatloaf lovers and cheese enthusiasts alike will appreciate. Whether served with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a side salad, it’s a show-stopping centerpiece that elevates any meal.

Recipe Overview

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 50–60 minutes
Total Time: 65–75 minutes
Servings: 4–6 servings
Calories: Approximately 480–520 kcal per serving

Cuisine & Course

Cuisine: American / Comfort Food
Course: Main Course / Dinner

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

1 1/2 lb (680 g) ground beef
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup milk
1 egg
1 small onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
3/4 cup crumbled blue cheese

For the Glaze:

1/2 cup ketchup
2 tbsp brown sugar
1 tsp Dijon mustard

Optional Garnish:

Fresh parsley, chopped

Simple Cooking Directions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, and crumbled blue cheese. Mix gently.
Shape mixture into a loaf and place in a baking dish or loaf pan.
Mix ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard for the glaze; spread over the top.
Bake 50–60 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Let rest 5–10 minutes before slicing. Garnish and serve.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix Meatloaf Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, diced onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, and crumbled blue cheese. Mix until just combined to avoid overworking the meat.

Step 3: Shape the Loaf

Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place in the prepared loaf pan or on the baking sheet.

Step 4: Prepare the Glaze

In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard. Spread evenly over the top of the meatloaf.

Step 5: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 50–60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Remove meatloaf from oven and let it rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot.

How to Serve

Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.
Pair with steamed rice or buttery noodles to soak up the glaze.
Complement with a crusty bread or garlic bread for a complete comfort meal.

Additional Recipe Tips

Don’t overmix the meat mixture; this keeps the meatloaf tender.
Blue cheese can be strong; adjust quantity according to your taste preference.
Letting the meatloaf rest before slicing ensures juicy slices.
Sauté onions and garlic beforehand for a deeper flavor if desired.
For extra flavor, sprinkle additional blue cheese on top before baking.

Variations

Bacon-Wrapped Blue Cheese Meatloaf:
Wrap the loaf with bacon strips before baking for smoky richness.
Spicy Blue Cheese Meatloaf:
Add 1–2 finely chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne to the mixture.
Mushroom Blue Cheese Meatloaf:
Fold in sautéed mushrooms for added earthiness and moisture.
Italian Blue Cheese Meatloaf:
Add Italian seasoning and top with marinara instead of the ketchup glaze.
Cheddar-Blue Cheese Swirl Meatloaf:
Combine blue cheese and shredded cheddar for a creamier, milder flavor.

Freezing and Storage

To Store: Refrigerate cooked meatloaf in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
To Freeze: Wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2–3 months.
To Reheat: Reheat slices in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through or in the microwave.

Special Equipment Needed

Loaf pan or baking sheet
Mixing bowl
Spoon or spatula for mixing
Oven thermometer (optional)
Meat thermometer

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, but the meatloaf may be leaner and slightly less juicy; add a little olive oil or milk to compensate.

Q2: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, shape the loaf and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Q3: Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats.

Q4: How can I make it less tangy?
Reduce the amount of blue cheese slightly or use a milder variety like Gorgonzola dolce.

Q5: Can I add vegetables to this meatloaf?
Yes, finely diced bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini can be added for extra nutrition and moisture.

Conclusion

Blue Cheese Meatloaf is a bold, savory, and comforting twist on the classic meatloaf. Its rich, tangy cheese, tender beef, and sweet glaze make it an unforgettable meal that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Moist, flavorful, and easy to prepare, it’s a gourmet comfort food that elevates any dinner table.