Cheddar-Stuffed Buffalo Chicken Meatloaf Recipe
This Cheddar-Stuffed Buffalo Chicken Meatloaf combines lean ground chicken with spicy buffalo sauce and sharp cheddar cheese for a flavorful twist on classic meatloaf. Topped with additional buffalo sauce and served with ranch or blue cheese dressing, it’s a hearty, savory dish perfect for a satisfying dinner.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Meatloaf
- 1 pound lean ground chicken (or substitute turkey)
- 1 egg
- 3 tablespoons buffalo sauce (your favorite brand)
- ⅓ cup panko breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs)
- ⅓ cup scallions, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 3 ounces sharp cheddar cheese (about ¾ cup shredded)
Topping
- ½ cup buffalo sauce, divided
To Garnish
- Diced scallions or fresh chopped cilantro
For Serving
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, egg, 3 tablespoons buffalo sauce, panko breadcrumbs, minced garlic, diced scallions, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Use your hands or a large spoon to mix thoroughly until the mixture is well combined.
- Shape the Meatloaf: Place half of the meat mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and form into a 9×5 inch rectangle. Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese in the center, leaving about ½ inch margin on all sides. Top with the remaining meat mixture, enclosing the cheese completely. Seal the edges carefully to create a smooth oval-shaped loaf.
- Add Buffalo Sauce Topping: Spread half (¼ cup) of the buffalo sauce evenly over the top of the meatloaf. Reserve the remaining sauce for brushing later after baking to maintain its fresh flavor. Avoid double dipping the serving sauce.
- Bake the Meatloaf: Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer. This ensures the meat is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Finish and Rest: Once baked, brush the meatloaf with the remaining buffalo sauce. Let it rest and cool for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute before slicing.
- Serve: Slice the meatloaf into 4 portions. Garnish with diced scallions or chopped cilantro. Serve alongside ranch or blue cheese dressing for a creamy complement to the spicy buffalo flavors.
Notes
- You can substitute lean ground turkey if preferred.
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce to control spiciness.
- Make sure to fully enclose the cheddar cheese to prevent it from leaking out during baking.
- Allow the meatloaf to rest after baking for easier slicing and better flavor.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
