Meatloaf Sandwich with Caramelized Onions and Melty Colby Jack Recipe

Introduction

This Meatloaf Sandwich is a delicious way to reinvent leftover meatloaf into a satisfying, melty meal. With caramelized onions, melted Colby Jack cheese, and a savory meatloaf glaze, it’s perfect for a quick lunch or 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

Instructions

1. Step 1: Add 2 tablespoons of 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 place them in a bowl. Wipe the skillet clean.
2. Step 2: Heat the skillet over medium and add 2 tablespoons of butter. When melted, add the meatloaf slices and cook for about 3 minutes on each side without crowding the pan. Cook in batches if needed. Set the cooked meatloaf aside and wipe the skillet clean.
3. Step 3: Place the skillet over medium-low heat. Spread a thin layer of butter on each bread slice and put them butter-side down in the skillet. Cook in batches if necessary. Lay a slice of cheese on each bread slice and cook until the bread is golden and the cheese has melted, about 3 minutes.
4. Step 4: Remove the toasted bread from the skillet. Assemble the sandwiches by layering meatloaf slices, sautéed onions, and a spoonful of warmed meatloaf sauce on half the bread slices. Top with the remaining bread slices. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• Use a sturdy white bread or sourdough for better structure and flavor.
• Swap Colby Jack cheese for cheddar or provolone for a different melt and taste.
• Try adding a spread of mustard or mayonnaise for extra moisture and tang.
• For a sweeter onion, add a teaspoon of brown sugar while caramelizing.

Storage

Prepare the sandwich fresh for best results. Leftover meatloaf can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you have pre-assembled sandwiches, wrap them tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Reheat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through and the cheese is melted.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh meatloaf instead of leftovers?

Yes, you can slice freshly cooked meatloaf and use it immediately. Just let it cool slightly before grilling for easier handling.

What can I use if I don’t have meatloaf sauce?

You can substitute with ketchup, barbecue sauce, or a savory tomato-based glaze to complement the meatloaf and add moisture to the sandwich.

Meatloaf Sandwich with Caramelized Onions and Melty Colby Jack Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.5 from 96 reviews

This Meatloaf Sandwich recipe transforms leftover meatloaf into a savory, comforting sandwich featuring sautéed onions, melted Colby Jack cheese, and a tangy meatloaf sauce, all grilled to golden perfection on thick white bread. Ready in just 25 minutes, this easy stovetop sandwich is perfect for a satisfying lunch or casual dinner.

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

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Butter and Vegetables

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

Main Ingredients

• 4 slices leftover meatloaf, about 1-inch thick
• 8 slices bakery white bread, sliced 1-inch thick
• 8 slices Colby Jack cheese

Condiments

• 1/2 cup meatloaf sauce or glaze, warmed in the microwave

Instructions

1. Sauté Onions: Add 2 tablespoons 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 have developed a golden color. Remove the onions from the skillet and set aside in a bowl. Wipe the skillet clean.
2. Cook Meatloaf Slices: Return the skillet to medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of butter. When melted, add the meatloaf slices and cook them for approximately 3 minutes on each side until heated through and slightly caramelized. If needed, cook the meatloaf in batches to avoid overcrowding. Remove the cooked meatloaf and wipe the skillet clean again.
3. Grill Bread with Cheese: Set the skillet to medium-low heat. Butter each slice of bread lightly on one side and place them butter-side down in the skillet, working in batches if necessary. Immediately add a slice of Colby Jack cheese on top of each bread slice in the skillet. Cook until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has melted, about 3 minutes.
4. Assemble Sandwiches: Remove the cheesy bread slices from the skillet. Build each sandwich by layering one cheese-toasted bread slice with one slice of grilled meatloaf, sautéed onions, and a spoonful of warmed meatloaf sauce. Top with another cheesy bread slice to complete the sandwich. Serve immediately and enjoy the hearty, melty flavors.

Notes

• Use leftover meatloaf thickly sliced for best texture and flavor.
• Warming the meatloaf sauce before assembling enhances its flavor and helps it spread easily.
• Cooking in batches prevents overcrowding and ensures even cooking.
• For added texture, consider toasting the sandwiches in a panini press instead of the skillet.
• Store leftover sandwiches wrapped tightly in the refrigerator and reheat in a skillet or oven for best results.

Keywords: Meatloaf sandwich, leftover meatloaf, sautéed onions, grilled sandwich, American sandwich, comfort food