Introduction
If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that your whole family will love, these Grilled Meatloaf Sandwiches are the perfect choice. This recipe transforms leftover meatloaf into a mouthwatering sandwich that’s both hearty and flavorful. With melty cheese, a tangy chipotle ketchup, and crispy bread, these sandwiches are sure to become a family favorite. Plus, they’re highly adaptable – you can customize the cheese and the spiciness to suit your family’s taste. Best of all, they can be flash-frozen and reheated, making them a convenient option for busy weeknights.
Grilled Meatloaf Sandwich Recipe
Ingredients
- 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 freshly ground black pepper
- 4 slices leftover meatloaf (1/3 inch thick)
- 8 slices Italian bread or white bread
- 4 slices white American cheese
- 4 slices baby Swiss cheese
- 3 tablespoons butter
- Pickles (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Chipotle Ketchup
- Mix Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the ketchup, chopped chipotle chile, adobo sauce, and balsamic vinegar. Stir well to blend all the flavors.
- Season: Add kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Set the mixture aside.
Assemble the Sandwiches
- Layer the Ingredients: Start by laying out four slices of bread. On each slice, layer one slice of white American cheese, one slice of meatloaf, one slice of baby Swiss cheese, and pickles (if using).
- Top the Sandwiches: Place the remaining slices of bread on top to form four sandwiches.
- Butter the Bread: Spread butter on the top and bottom slices of each sandwich.
Cook the Sandwiches
- Heat the Skillet: Warm a large skillet over medium-low heat.
- Cook the Sandwiches: Place the sandwiches in the skillet and cover them with foil. This helps the cheese melt evenly and ensures the sandwich is heated through. Cook until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted, about 3-4 minutes per side.
Serve
- Serve Hot: Remove the sandwiches from the skillet and serve them immediately with the prepared chipotle ketchup on the side for dipping.
Tips for the Best Grilled Meatloaf Sandwiches
- Choosing the Bread: Italian or white bread works well for this recipe, but you can use your favorite type of bread. Sourdough or whole grain bread would add a nice texture and flavor.
- Adjusting the Spice Level: The amount of chipotle chile and adobo sauce can be adjusted to your liking. If you prefer a milder flavor, use less chipotle and adobo sauce. For more heat, add more.
- Melting the Cheese: Covering the skillet with foil helps the cheese melt more evenly. You can also use a lid if it fits your skillet.
- Flash Freezing: To flash freeze the sandwiches, assemble them and place them on a baking sheet in the freezer until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Reheat in the microwave or oven when ready to eat.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Cheddar, mozzarella, or provolone would all be great alternatives.
What if I don’t have leftover meatloaf?
If you don’t have leftover meatloaf, you can make a fresh batch or use store-bought meatloaf. Alternatively, you could use cooked ground beef or a plant-based meatloaf for a vegetarian option.
How do I store leftover sandwiches?
Store any leftover sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet until heated through.
Can I make these sandwiches ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the sandwiches ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. When ready to eat, butter the bread and cook as directed. You can also flash freeze the sandwiches for longer storage.
How can I reheat frozen sandwiches?
To reheat frozen sandwiches, you can use a microwave or oven. For the microwave, heat on high for 2-3 minutes until heated through. For the oven, preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10-15 minutes or until hot and the cheese is melted.
What sides go well with grilled meatloaf sandwiches?
Grilled meatloaf sandwiches pair well with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with a simple salad, sweet potato fries, or coleslaw for a complete meal.
Can I add other toppings?
Yes, you can customize your sandwiches with additional toppings like sautéed onions, mushrooms, or jalapeños for extra flavor.
By following this easy and versatile recipe, you’ll be able to enjoy delicious Grilled Meatloaf Sandwiches that are perfect for any meal. Whether you’re using up leftovers or making them from scratch, these sandwiches are sure to satisfy your taste buds.