Grilled Meatloaf Melt Sandwich
Transform your leftover meatloaf into a mouthwatering grilled sandwich that’s perfect for lunch or a quick snack. This Grilled Meatloaf Melt Sandwich features savory meatloaf encased in delicious monterey jack cheese, nestled between two slices of wholesome whole grain bread. With a crispy, golden crust from a light brushing of olive oil, every bite melts in your mouth while the umami flavors of the meatloaf shine through. Ideal for using up leftovers, this sandwich is both satisfying and easy to make, making it a great choice for any meal of the day.
1
Servings
N/A
Calories
4
Ingredients
Ingredients
Leftover meatloaf
1/2 inch thick slice (Chilled)
Monterey jack cheese
2 slices (None)
Whole grain bread
2 slices (None)
Olive oil
1 tablespoon (For brushing)
Instructions
1
Start by taking a 1/2 inch thick slice of leftover meatloaf and placing it between two slices of monterey jack cheese.
2
Next, add these to one slice of whole grain bread, then top with the second slice of bread to create the sandwich.
3
Brush the outer sides of the sandwich generously with olive oil to promote a golden, crispy crust.
4
Heat a skillet over medium-low heat and gently place the sandwich in the pan.
5
Cook for approximately 3-5 minutes on each side, carefully flipping until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted, ensuring even cooking.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Grilled Meatloaf Melt Sandwich?
It is a savory sandwich made by grilling leftover meatloaf and Monterey jack cheese between slices of whole grain bread until golden and crispy.
What are the main ingredients for this recipe?
The main ingredients are a 1/2 inch thick slice of leftover meatloaf, two slices of Monterey jack cheese, two slices of whole grain bread, and one tablespoon of olive oil.
How long does it take to cook the sandwich?
The sandwich takes approximately 3 to 5 minutes to cook on each side over medium-low heat.
What type of bread is recommended?
Wholesome whole grain bread is recommended for its texture and flavor.
Which cheese is used in this recipe?
Monterey jack cheese is used for its excellent melting properties and mild flavor.
Why should I use olive oil on the bread?
Brushing the outer sides of the sandwich with olive oil promotes a golden, crispy crust when grilled.
Can I use butter instead of olive oil?
Yes, butter is a suitable alternative to olive oil for browning the bread, though it will change the flavor profile slightly.
What heat setting should I use for grilling?
A medium-low heat setting is ideal to ensure the bread toasts evenly and the cheese melts without burning the exterior.
Is this recipe good for leftovers?
Yes, it is specifically designed as a delicious way to transform leftover meatloaf into a new meal.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is portioned for 1 serving.
How thick should the meatloaf slice be?
A 1/2 inch thick slice is recommended so it heats through properly during the grilling process.
Can I add condiments to the sandwich?
While not in the base recipe, you can easily add ketchup, mustard, or BBQ sauce to complement the meatloaf flavor.
What is the best way to flip the sandwich?
Use a wide spatula to carefully flip the sandwich, ensuring the meatloaf and cheese stay centered between the bread slices.
Is Monterey jack the only cheese I can use?
No, you can substitute it with other melting cheeses like Cheddar, Provolone, or Swiss.
Should the meatloaf be cold when I start?
Yes, the recipe suggests using a chilled slice of leftover meatloaf.
Can I make this sandwich in an air fryer?
Yes, you can air fry it at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 3-5 minutes per side until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
Is this a quick recipe?
Yes, with just 4 ingredients and about 10 minutes of total cook time, it is very fast.
Can I add vegetables to the melt?
Certainly; adding caramelized onions or sautéed mushrooms would enhance the savory umami flavors.
How do I know when the sandwich is done?
The sandwich is done when the bread is golden brown on both sides and the cheese has completely melted.
Can I use white bread instead of whole grain?
Yes, any sliced bread will work for this recipe, though whole grain provides a heartier structure.
Is this sandwich suitable for a kid's lunch?
Yes, its mild flavors and crispy texture make it a very kid-friendly meal.
Can I use a panini press?
Yes, a panini press is an excellent alternative to a skillet for making this melt.
What sides go well with a meatloaf melt?
It pairs well with potato chips, a side salad, pickles, or even a cup of tomato soup.
What if my meatloaf is crumbly?
The melted Monterey jack cheese acts as a 'glue' to help hold the meatloaf slice together inside the bread.
Can I use turkey meatloaf for this recipe?
Absolutely, any type of meatloaf works well with this grilling method.
Do I need to grease the pan?
Since you brush the bread with olive oil, you do not necessarily need to grease the pan, though a light coating can't hurt.
How many slices of cheese are used?
The recipe calls for two slices of Monterey jack cheese.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free bread and ensure your meatloaf was prepared with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Is this considered comfort food?
Yes, the combination of warm meatloaf and melted cheese makes it a classic comfort food dish.
Does this recipe require a lot of prep?
No, the prep is minimal since it primarily involves assembling pre-cooked leftovers.