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Homemade copycat Cheesecake Factory meatloaf recipe served with mashed potatoes and green beans on a white dinner plate.

Cheesecake Factory Meatloaf Recipe (Better Than the Restaurant!)

A juicy, savory, copycat Cheesecake Factory meatloaf recipe made with simple ingredients, a sweet-tangy glaze, and loads of comforting flavor, no pork required. This version is easy to make at home and even better the next day!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Course: dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 370
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Meatloaf
  • 2 lbs ground beef 80/20
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs plain or Italian
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Glaze
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • Optional: pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes

Equipment

  • 1 Large mixing bowl For combining meat mixture
  • 1 Loaf pan or tray For baking
  • 1 Skillet For sautéing onions & garlic
  • 1 Meat thermometer For sautéing onions & garlic

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a loaf pan or line with parchment paper.
  2. Sauté onions and garlic in a skillet over medium heat for 3–4 minutes. Set aside to cool.
  3. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, pepper, and the cooked onion/garlic. Mix gently until combined.
  4. Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared pan.
  5. Bake uncovered for 40 minutes.
  6. While it bakes, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar to make the glaze.
  7. Spread the glaze over the meatloaf and return it to the oven for another 15–20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  8. Let rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
  • Want a healthier twist? Use ground turkey and whole wheat breadcrumbs.
  • Pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes and green beans for a full Cheesecake Factory-style meal.