Meatloaf Sandwich with Caramelized Onions and Melted Cheese Recipe
Introduction
This meatloaf sandwich is a comforting and flavorful way to enjoy your leftover meatloaf. With caramelized onions, melted Colby Jack cheese, and a savory glaze, it’s a hearty meal perfect for lunch or a quick dinner.
Ingredients
- 6 tablespoons room-temperature unsalted butter, divided
- 1 large yellow onion, sliced into 1/4-inch rings
- 4 slices leftover meatloaf, about 1-inch thick
- 8 slices bakery white bread, sliced 1-inch thick
- 8 slices Colby Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup meatloaf sauce or glaze, warmed in the microwave
Instructions
- Step 1: Add 2 tablespoons of butter to a large skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add the sliced onions and cook for about 8 minutes, stirring often, until they are softened and golden. Remove the pan from heat and transfer the onions to a bowl. Wipe the skillet clean and return it to the stovetop.
- Step 2: Heat the skillet over medium and add 2 tablespoons of butter. When melted, add meatloaf slices and cook for about 3 minutes on each side, working in batches if needed to avoid crowding. Set the grilled meatloaf aside and wipe the skillet clean.
- Step 3: Reduce heat to medium-low. Spread a thin layer of butter on each bread slice and place them butter-side down in the skillet, cooking in batches if necessary. Top each slice with a piece of Colby Jack cheese. Cook until the bread is golden and the cheese melts, about 3 minutes.
- Step 4: Remove the bread from the pan. Assemble the sandwiches by layering meatloaf, sautéed onions, and a spoonful of warmed meatloaf sauce on half of the bread slices. Top each with the remaining bread slices. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips & Variations
- Use a good-quality white or sandwich bread for the best texture and flavor.
- For extra richness, add a slice of crispy bacon or a smear of mustard on the bread before assembling.
- If you don’t have leftover meatloaf, bake your favorite meatloaf recipe fresh and slice it thick for this sandwich.
- Swap Colby Jack cheese with cheddar or mozzarella based on your preference.
Storage
Store any leftover sandwiches wrapped tightly in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a skillet over low heat or in a toaster oven to maintain the bread’s crispness and melt the cheese again. Avoid microwaving as it may make the bread soggy.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other types of bread for this sandwich?
Yes, you can use brioche, sourdough, or even hearty whole wheat bread. Just make sure the slices are thick enough to hold the fillings without becoming soggy.
Is it necessary to warm the meatloaf sauce before assembling?
Warming the meatloaf sauce helps it spread more easily and enhances the flavors when combined with the hot meatloaf and cheese, but it’s not absolutely necessary if you prefer to serve it cold or at room temperature.
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Meatloaf Sandwich with Caramelized Onions and Melted Cheese Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Meatloaf Sandwich recipe transforms leftover meatloaf into a savory, comforting sandwich layered with sautéed onions, melted Colby Jack cheese, and a flavorful meatloaf glaze. Perfect for a hearty lunch or quick dinner, each sandwich is grilled to golden perfection on buttery white bread, combining tender meatloaf slices and caramelized onions with a cheesy, crispy finish.
Ingredients
Butter and Bread
- 6 tablespoons room-temperature unsalted butter, divided
- 8 slices bakery white bread, sliced 1-inch thick
Meat and Cheese
- 4 slices leftover meatloaf, about 1-inch thick
- 8 slices Colby Jack cheese
Vegetables and Sauce
- 1 large yellow onion, sliced into 1/4-inch rings
- 1/2 cup meatloaf sauce or glaze, warmed in the microwave
Instructions
- Sauté Onions: Add 2 tablespoons butter to a large skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add the sliced onions and cook, stirring often, for about 8 minutes until they are softened and golden. Remove the onions from the skillet and set aside in a bowl. Wipe the skillet clean.
- Cook Meatloaf Slices: Return the skillet to medium heat and add 2 tablespoons butter. When melted, place the meatloaf slices in the pan and cook about 3 minutes per side until browned and heated through. If necessary, cook in batches to avoid overcrowding. Set the cooked meatloaf aside and wipe the skillet clean.
- Grill Bread with Cheese: Lower the heat to medium-low and add a thin layer of butter to each slice of bread. Place the slices butter-side down on the skillet, working in batches if needed. Place a slice of Colby Jack cheese on each piece and cook until the bread is golden brown and the cheese melts, about 3 minutes.
- Assemble Sandwiches: Remove the bread from the skillet and layer with the cooked meatloaf slices, sautéed onions, and a spoonful of warmed meatloaf sauce. Top with the remaining bread slices to complete the sandwich. Serve immediately and enjoy your flavorful meatloaf sandwich.
Notes
- Use day-old or leftover meatloaf for best results to avoid crumbling.
- Adjust the amount of butter to your preference for a lighter or richer sandwich.
- For extra flavor, try adding pickles or mustard to the sandwich before serving.
- You can substitute Colby Jack cheese with cheddar or your favorite melting cheese.
- Warm the meatloaf sauce before assembly to enhance the flavor and texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Meatloaf sandwich, leftover meatloaf recipe, grilled meatloaf sandwich, comfort food sandwich, easy lunch recipes
