Grilled Meatloaf Sandwich: A Flavorful Twist on a Classic Comfort Food
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with our Grilled Meatloaf Sandwich recipe. Perfectly seasoned meatloaf slices, layered with a zesty chipotle-kissed ketchup, gooey melted cheese, and sandwiched between slices of buttery grilled bread, this sandwich is sure to become a new family favorite. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying lunch or a quick and easy dinner option, this recipe has you covered. Let’s dive into the details of how to create this mouthwatering masterpiece!
Ingredients:
For the Chipotle Ketchup:
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1-2 teaspoons chopped chipotle chile from canned chipotles (see notes)
- 1 tablespoon adobo sauce from can (see notes)
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
- Kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper
For the Sandwich:
- 4 slices leftover meatloaf, 1/3 inch thick
- 8 slices Italian bread or white bread
- 4 slices white American cheese
- 4 slices baby Swiss
- 3 tablespoons butter
- Pickles (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chipotle Ketchup:
- In a small bowl, combine the ketchup, chopped chipotle chile, adobo sauce, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
2. Grill the Meatloaf Slices:
- Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat.
- Place the meatloaf slices directly on the grill and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until heated through and grill marks form. Remove from the grill and set aside.
3. Assemble the Sandwiches:
- Spread a generous amount of chipotle ketchup on one side of each slice of bread.
- Layer two slices of white American cheese on four slices of bread, followed by two slices of baby Swiss cheese.
- Place a grilled meatloaf slice on top of the cheese, then cover with the remaining bread slices to form sandwiches.
4. Grill the Sandwiches:
- Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and add butter.
- Once the butter has melted and the skillet is hot, carefully place the assembled sandwiches in the skillet.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
- Remove the grilled meatloaf sandwiches from the skillet and transfer to serving plates.
- Optionally, serve with pickles on the side for added flavor and crunch.
- Slice the sandwiches in half diagonally and serve immediately while hot.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Chipotle Chiles: Adjust the amount of chopped chipotle chiles according to your desired level of spiciness. You can also substitute with chipotle powder for a milder flavor.
- Adobo Sauce: If you don’t have adobo sauce, you can use chipotle hot sauce or BBQ sauce as a substitute for added smokiness and flavor.
- Meatloaf Variation: Feel free to use your favorite meatloaf recipe for this sandwich. Whether it’s beef, turkey, or even vegetarian, the choice is yours!
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto-Friendly Option:
- Replace the bread with low-carb alternatives such as lettuce wraps or keto-friendly bread made from almond flour or coconut flour.
Cook Notes and Variations
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian twist, substitute the meatloaf slices with grilled portobello mushrooms or a plant-based protein alternative such as tempeh or tofu. Marinate the mushrooms or tofu in the chipotle ketchup mixture for added flavor.
- Gluten-Free Version: Swap out the regular bread for gluten-free bread or use gluten-free wraps for a gluten-free option. Ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free, including the Worcestershire sauce and cheese.
- Customize the Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese to suit your taste preferences. Sharp cheddar, provolone, or pepper jack would all be delicious alternatives to the American and Swiss cheeses.
- Add Extra Toppings: Enhance the flavor and texture of your grilled meatloaf sandwich by adding additional toppings such as sliced avocado, caramelized onions, or roasted red peppers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use store-bought meatloaf for this recipe? A: Yes, you can use store-bought meatloaf if you’re short on time or prefer the convenience. Simply slice the meatloaf into 1/3-inch thick slices and grill according to the recipe instructions.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: While the sandwiches are best enjoyed fresh off the grill, you can prepare the chipotle ketchup, cook the meatloaf slices, and assemble the sandwiches ahead of time. Store the assembled sandwiches in the refrigerator until ready to grill, then cook as directed.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions
Keto-Friendly Option (Continued):
- Opt for a sugar-free barbecue sauce or make your own keto-friendly version using tomato paste, vinegar, and keto-approved sweeteners like erythritol or stevia.
Low-Carb Twist
- Serve the grilled meatloaf slices atop a bed of mixed greens or cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative to traditional bread.
In conclusion, the Grilled Meatloaf Sandwich is a versatile and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, enjoying a casual weeknight dinner, or packing a picnic lunch, this recipe is sure to please. With its smoky grilled flavor, zesty chipotle ketchup, and gooey melted cheese, each bite is a symphony of deliciousness. Plus, with its customizable ingredients and easy preparation, you can tailor this recipe to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. So fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to the ultimate comfort food experience with our Grilled Meatloaf Sandwich recipe!