Meatloaf Sandwich with Caramelized Onions and Melted Cheese Recipe

Introduction

This meatloaf sandwich is a comforting twist on a classic favorite, making the perfect use of leftover meatloaf. Featuring caramelized onions, melted Colby Jack cheese, and a savory meatloaf glaze, it’s a satisfying and easy-to-make meal ready in just 25 minutes.

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

1. 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 onions from the pan and transfer to a bowl. Wipe the skillet clean.
2. Step 2: Return the skillet to medium heat and add 2 more tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the meatloaf slices and cook for about 3 minutes on each side until heated through and slightly browned. Work in batches if needed to avoid crowding. Set the cooked meatloaf aside and wipe the skillet clean again.
3. Step 3: Lower the heat to medium-low and spread a thin layer of butter on each slice of bread. Place the bread butter-side down in the skillet, cooking in batches if necessary. Top each slice with a piece of Colby Jack cheese and cook until the bread is golden and the cheese melts, about 3 minutes.
4. Step 4: Remove the bread from the pan and assemble sandwiches by layering meatloaf slices, sautéed onions, and a spoonful of warmed meatloaf sauce on a cheese-topped bread slice. Top with the remaining bread slices. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• Use a sharp cheese like cheddar or pepper jack for extra flavor.
• Try adding a few pickles or a spread of mustard for a tangy twist.
• If you don’t have leftover meatloaf, thickly sliced cooked hamburger patties can be a quick substitute.
• To save time, caramelize onions in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Storage

Store leftover sandwiches wrapped in foil or airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to preserve the bread’s crispness. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh meatloaf instead of leftovers?

Yes, just make sure the meatloaf is fully cooked and cooled before slicing. You can then proceed with the recipe as directed.

What if I don’t have meatloaf sauce or glaze?

You can substitute with barbecue sauce, ketchup, or your favorite condiment to add moisture and flavor to the sandwich.

Meatloaf Sandwich with Caramelized Onions and Melted Cheese Recipe

Print Recipe

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4.5 from 125 reviews

This Meatloaf Sandwich recipe transforms your leftover meatloaf into a deliciously satisfying meal with sautéed onions, melted Colby Jack cheese, and a flavorful meatloaf sauce, all toasted between buttery slices of white bread. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner that combines savory flavors and comforting textures.

• Author: Sophie
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Sandwich
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Onions

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1 large yellow onion, sliced into 1/4-inch rings

For the Meatloaf

• 4 slices leftover meatloaf, about 1-inch thick
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature

For the Sandwich

• 8 slices bakery white bread, sliced 1-inch thick
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature, divided
• 8 slices Colby Jack cheese
• 1/2 cup meatloaf sauce or glaze, warmed

Instructions

1. Sauté the Onions: Add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter to a large skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add the sliced yellow onions and cook for about 8 minutes, stirring often, until softened and golden brown. Remove the onions from the skillet and set aside in a bowl. Wipe the skillet clean before proceeding.
2. Cook the Meatloaf Slices: Return the skillet to medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, place the meatloaf slices in the skillet, cooking for approximately 3 minutes per side until they develop a slight crust. Avoid overcrowding by cooking in batches if needed. Once cooked, set the meatloaf slices aside and clean the skillet again.
3. Toast the Bread with Cheese: With the skillet on medium-low heat, spread a thin layer of butter on each slice of bread. Place the bread butter-side down in the skillet in batches if required. Add a slice of Colby Jack cheese on each bread slice and cook for about 3 minutes until the bread is golden and the cheese has melted.
4. Assemble the Sandwich: Remove the bread slices from the skillet. Build each sandwich by layering cooked meatloaf slices, sautéed onions, and a spoonful of warmed meatloaf sauce on the cheese-toasted bread. Top with the remaining bread slices, cheese side down, to complete the sandwich. Serve immediately and enjoy.

Notes

• Ensure the butter is room temperature for easier spreading and even cooking.
• Use leftover meatloaf that is well chilled for easier slicing and handling.
• Meatloaf sauce can be substituted with ketchup, BBQ sauce, or your favorite glaze.
• For a crispier sandwich, press down gently with a spatula while toasting the bread in the skillet.
• Adjust cooking times as needed based on the thickness of meatloaf and bread slices.

Keywords: meatloaf sandwich, leftover meatloaf recipe, skillet sandwich, toasted bread sandwich, savory sandwich