The Best Meatloaf Grilled Cheese Recipe for a Hearty Meal

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with a healthy twist: Meatloaf Grilled Cheese. This recipe combines the hearty flavors of homemade meatloaf with the gooey, cheesy goodness of a classic grilled cheese sandwich. Perfect for a quick lunch or satisfying dinner, this dish is designed to fit seamlessly into your Weight Watchers plan while delivering maximum flavor.

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf

• 1 lb lean ground turkey or beef (93% lean or higher)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (whole wheat or gluten-free, if needed)
• 1/4 cup onion, finely diced
• 1/4 cup low-sugar ketchup
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 egg
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Grilled Cheese

• 8 slices light whole-grain bread
• 4 slices reduced-fat cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons light butter or cooking spray

Instructions

Prepare the Meatloaf

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, onion, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a loaf pan or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
5. Allow the meatloaf to cool slightly before slicing into thin pieces.

Assemble the Grilled Cheese

1. Preheat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Lightly butter one side of each slice of bread.
3. On the unbuttered side of 4 slices, layer a slice of reduced-fat cheese, a slice of meatloaf, and another slice of cheese. Top with the remaining bread slices, buttered side facing out.

Cook the Sandwiches

1. Place the sandwiches in the preheated skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
2. Press gently with a spatula for even toasting and ensure the sandwich holds together.

Serve

1. Remove from the skillet and let the sandwiches rest for 1-2 minutes before slicing in half.
2. Serve with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or a cup of tomato soup for a complete meal.

Nutritional Information

(Per Serving: 1 sandwich)

• Calories: ~320
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fat: 11g
• Fiber: 4g
• WW Points: ~6-8 (varies based on ingredients)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Healthy Comfort Food: Combines two classics—meatloaf and grilled cheese—into a lighter, guilt-free version.
2. High in Protein: Keeps you full and satisfied without overloading on calories.
3. Customizable: Swap turkey for lean beef or add spices like paprika or Italian seasoning for a flavor boost.
4. Quick and Easy: Make the meatloaf ahead of time for an even faster meal prep.

Tips for Success

• Choose the Right Bread: Opt for light whole-grain bread or a low-calorie alternative to keep points in check.
• Use Cooking Spray: For a lighter option, spray the bread with cooking spray instead of using butter.
• Leftover Meatloaf: This recipe is perfect for using up leftover meatloaf. Slice it thin for easy layering.
• Add Vegetables: Layer in spinach, tomato slices, or caramelized onions for extra flavor and nutrients.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair your Meatloaf Grilled Cheese with:
  • A low-point tomato soup for dipping.
  • Steamed green beans or a mixed salad for added fiber.
  • Baked sweet potato fries for a satisfying side.

This Meatloaf Grilled Cheese is the ultimate combination of hearty and cheesy goodness in a guilt-free package. Whether you’re craving something nostalgic or looking for a creative way to use up leftovers, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Keep it light, flavorful, and on plan—because you deserve to enjoy every bite!