Pimento Cheese Meatloaf

Introduction

Pimento Cheese Meatloaf is a mouthwatering Southern-inspired dish that combines two comfort food favorites: the hearty, savory flavor of classic meatloaf and the creamy, tangy goodness of pimento cheese. Imagine a tender, juicy loaf of perfectly seasoned beef infused with the bold flavor of cheddar cheese, roasted red pimentos, and a hint of spice — then baked to perfection with a golden, cheesy topping.

It’s a comforting, nostalgic dish that’s hearty enough for a Sunday dinner yet simple enough for a weeknight meal. Every slice offers a creamy, gooey bite of pimento cheese that melts right into the juicy beef, creating an irresistible flavor combination.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s a creative twist on traditional meatloaf that never fails to impress. The addition of pimento cheese makes it extra moist, flavorful, and indulgent. Instead of dry or plain meatloaf, this version turns out rich, creamy, and bursting with Southern charm.

It’s the kind of dish that brings people together — the aroma fills the kitchen, and the first bite always gets a “wow.” It’s comfort food done right, with a playful, cheesy kick that makes it unforgettable. Plus, it’s easy to prepare with simple ingredients and minimal fuss.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This Pimento Cheese Meatloaf is a must-try because:

• It’s a bold twist on the classic meatloaf — creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor.
• Pimento cheese adds richness and moisture, preventing the loaf from drying out.
• It’s crowd-pleasing and perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or holidays.
• It’s versatile — can be made ahead, frozen, or even turned into sandwiches.
• It’s comfort food with personality, offering both nostalgia and novelty in one dish.

Recipe Information

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
• Servings: 6–8 servings
• Calories: Approximately 480 kcal per serving
• Cuisine: Southern American
• Course: Main Course / Dinner

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 1½ lbs (680 g) ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio recommended)
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup milk
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup ketchup (divided; part for the topping)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon mustard powder (optional)

For the Pimento Cheese Mixture:

• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ½ cup cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup diced pimentos (drained well)
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Mix pimento cheese filling and set aside.
2. Combine all meatloaf ingredients in a large bowl.
3. Shape half the mixture into a loaf, add pimento cheese center, then top with remaining meat mixture.
4. Spread ketchup glaze on top.
5. Bake until cooked through and golden, then rest before slicing.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation

Step 1: Preheat Oven

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Line a baking sheet or loaf pan with foil and lightly grease it.

Step 2: Prepare the Pimento Cheese Filling

• In a bowl, mix cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, cream cheese, diced pimentos, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
• Stir until creamy and well combined. Set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture

• In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, milk, eggs, ¼ cup ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
• Mix gently with your hands or a spatula until just combined (do not overmix — it can make the meatloaf dense).

Step 4: Assemble the Meatloaf

• Divide the meat mixture in half.
• Shape one half into a rectangular base on the prepared pan.
• Spread the pimento cheese mixture evenly on top, leaving about ½ inch around the edges.
• Place the remaining meat mixture on top and seal the edges well.

Step 5: Add the Glaze

• Spread the remaining ¼ cup ketchup evenly over the top of the loaf.

Step 6: Bake

• Bake uncovered for 55–65 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
• If desired, broil for the last 2–3 minutes to brown the top.

Step 7: Rest and Slice

• Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps retain juices and keep the loaf moist.

How to Serve

Serve your Pimento Cheese Meatloaf warm, sliced thick, with sides like:

• Mashed potatoes or buttered corn
• Roasted green beans or steamed broccoli
• Southern biscuits or cornbread
• Coleslaw or macaroni salad for a Southern touch

Garnish with fresh parsley or a drizzle of extra ketchup or BBQ sauce if desired.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Use room-temperature ingredients for smoother mixing.
• Drain pimentos well to prevent excess moisture in the loaf.
• Avoid overmixing the meat — it can make the loaf tough.
• Resting is crucial — it allows juices to redistribute.
• For extra cheesiness, sprinkle shredded cheddar on top during the last 10 minutes of baking.
• You can also make mini loaves or muffin-size portions for quicker cooking and easy freezing.

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or extra cayenne to the pimento cheese filling.

1. BBQ Twist: Replace ketchup glaze with BBQ sauce for smoky sweetness.
2. Turkey Version: Use ground turkey for a leaner version (reduce cooking time slightly).
3. Bacon-Wrapped: Wrap the loaf in bacon strips before baking for smoky flavor.
4. Stuffed Veggie Option: Add chopped spinach or bell peppers inside for color and nutrition.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing (Uncooked): Wrap the raw loaf tightly in plastic wrap and foil; freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
• Freezing (Cooked): Cool completely, wrap in foil or airtight container, and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15–20 minutes, or in the microwave (cover to retain moisture).

Special Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowls
• Loaf pan or baking sheet
• Rubber spatula or wooden spoon
• Aluminum foil
• Meat thermometer (for accuracy)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use store-bought pimento cheese?
Yes! It saves time — just make sure it’s thick, not runny.

Q2: Can I substitute ground beef with another meat?
Absolutely. Try ground turkey, chicken, or even a mix of beef and pork.

Q3: How do I prevent the loaf from falling apart?
Ensure the breadcrumbs and eggs are well incorporated — they act as binders.

Q4: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare the loaf up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Q5: How do I make it less rich?
Use light mayo, reduced-fat cheese, or reduce the pimento cheese layer slightly.

Conclusion

Pimento Cheese Meatloaf takes a classic comfort dish and gives it a Southern twist that’s creamy, flavorful, and unforgettable. The tender beef combined with tangy pimento cheese creates a perfectly balanced meal that’s indulgent yet homey.

It’s hearty, comforting, and guaranteed to make everyone ask for seconds. Whether served at a family dinner or shared at a gathering, this meatloaf is a true showstopper — proving that even the simplest dishes can become extraordinary with a little creativity and cheese!