Savory Apple and Cheese Meatloaf with Thyme Glaze

Short Description

Savory Apple and Cheese Meatloaf with Thyme Glaze is a unique twist on a classic comfort dish, featuring ground meat enriched with sweet apples, melty cheese, and fresh thyme. Topped with a flavorful glaze, this meatloaf is moist, aromatic, and perfect for both weeknight dinners and special gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Sweet & Savory Combo: Apples add natural sweetness that balances the savory elements
• Moist & Flavorful: Cheese melts into the meat for tender, rich slices
• Elevated Classic: The thyme glaze introduces a refined herbal note
• Family-Friendly: A familiar dish with a gourmet spin
• Great Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day in sandwiches or wraps

Tip by Elsa: “Use tart apples like Granny Smith to cut through the richness of the meat and cheese.”

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
• Egg
• Panko or breadcrumbs
• Onion, finely chopped
• Garlic, minced
• Apple (Granny Smith or similar), peeled and grated
• Cheddar or Gruyère cheese, cubed or shredded
• Fresh thyme, chopped
• Dijon mustard
• Salt and black pepper
• Ketchup or tomato paste (for glaze)
• Brown sugar or maple syrup
• Apple cider vinegar

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Set to 375°F (190°C) and line a loaf pan with parchment or foil.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, grated apple, cheese, thyme, mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until combined.
3. Form and Place: Shape into a loaf and place in the prepared pan or on a baking sheet.
4. Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, mix ketchup (or tomato paste), brown sugar, vinegar, and a pinch of thyme. Spread half over the top of the meatloaf.
5. Bake: Bake for 45–55 minutes, brushing with more glaze halfway through. Use a thermometer to ensure internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
6. Rest and Slice: Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm.

Tip by Elsa: “Don’t overmix the meat—this keeps the loaf tender instead of dense.”

Servings and Timing

Serves: 6
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Rest Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Variations

• Turkey Version: Use ground turkey and swap cheddar for goat cheese
• Gluten-Free: Use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs
• Spicy Glaze: Add a dash of hot sauce or chipotle paste to the glaze
• Veggie Boost: Mix in grated zucchini or carrot for added moisture and nutrition
• Stuffed Option: Layer cheese cubes in the center for a molten core

Tip by Elsa: “Add a spoonful of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the mix to boost juiciness without adding fat.”

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Wrap individual slices and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through or microwave gently, covered.

Tip by Elsa: “Reheat with a splash of broth or glaze to keep it moist.”

FAQs

What’s the best apple to use in this recipe?

Granny Smith is ideal for its firm texture and tart flavor, but Honeycrisp or Pink Lady also work.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Yes, but freshly shredded or cubed cheese melts better and integrates more smoothly.

Is the thyme glaze sweet?

It’s sweet-savory with herbal undertones—feel free to adjust sugar or vinegar to taste.

Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes, assemble it a day in advance and store covered in the fridge until ready to bake.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely—onion, grated carrots, zucchini, or spinach are great additions.

How do I know when it’s done?

Use a thermometer to check that the internal temp reaches 160°F (71°C).

Can I make it in muffin tins?

Yes! Mini meatloaves bake in 20–25 minutes and are great for portioning.

Can I skip the glaze?

Yes, but it adds moisture and flavor—consider a mustard-honey glaze as an alternative.

What can I serve this with?

Mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a green salad all pair wonderfully.

What’s the best cheese for melting in meatloaf?

Cheddar, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Gruyère all melt beautifully without overpowering the dish.

Conclusion

Savory Apple and Cheese Meatloaf with Thyme Glaze is a delightful twist on tradition, infusing sweetness, depth, and a gourmet touch into an everyday classic. It’s hearty, homey, and uniquely satisfying—perfect for family meals, fall dinners, or reinventing leftovers into something spectacular.

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