Name: Cheesy Leftover Meatloaf Sandwich Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon barbecue sauce; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 slices leftover meatloaf (about 1 inch thick each); 2 slices thick processed cheese or your favorite variety; 1 tablespoon water; Thinly sliced red onion (to taste); Yellow mustard (to taste); 4 slices sandwich bread (your favorite variety)

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 57 reviews

If you have some leftover meatloaf sitting in your fridge, get ready to elevate it into a mouthwatering, comforting meal with this Cheesy Leftover Meatloaf Sandwich Recipe. It transforms simple leftovers into a warm, melty, and satisfying sandwich that’s bursting with flavor, combining tender meatloaf, gooey cheese, and a tangy barbecue mayo that makes each bite absolutely unforgettable. Whether it’s a quick lunch or a cozy dinner, this recipe is a brilliant way to bring new life to your meatloaf with just a few easy steps.

Ingredients You'll Need

The image shows two thick rectangular slices of a cooked minced meatloaf with visible green herbs inside. On top of the meatloaf slices, there are two layers of pale yellow cheese slices stacked. To the left, there are thin, curly slices of purple onion placed next to a small white bowl filled with bright yellow mustard. Below the mustard, there is another white bowl with smooth white mayonnaise, and to the right of the mayonnaise, a white bowl filled with dark red ketchup with a slightly shiny surface. Above the onions, there is a small white bowl containing golden yellow olive oil with a glossy texture. All items are arranged neatly on white parchment paper laid on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are straightforward yet vital—they each play a part in layering flavors and textures that make this sandwich pop. From creamy mayo to zingy barbecue sauce, and of course the star ingredient, leftover meatloaf, every component works in harmony to create a truly delicious experience.

Mayonnaise: Brings a smooth, creamy base to balance the tang of barbecue sauce in the spread.

Barbecue sauce: Adds a smoky, slightly sweet kick that brightens up the leftover meatloaf.
Olive oil: Perfect for frying the meatloaf slices to a golden crisp without overpowering.
Leftover meatloaf (2 slices): The hearty main element that gets a toasted makeover.

Processed cheese slices (or your favorite cheese): Melts beautifully over the meatloaf for that irresistible gooeyness.
Water: Helps steam the cheese melt perfectly in the skillet.
Sandwich bread (4 slices): Your choice of bread gives texture and structure to the sandwich.

Thinly sliced red onion: Adds crunch and a sharp bite to contrast the richness.
Yellow mustard: Provides a tangy finish and balances the creamy barbecue mayo.

How to Make Cheesy Leftover Meatloaf Sandwich Recipe

Step 1: Prepare barbecue mayo

Start by combining mayonnaise and barbecue sauce in a small bowl, whisking them together until the mix is smooth and uniform. This simple sauce packs a punch, bringing creamy richness with a touch of smoky sweetness that complements the meatloaf brilliantly.

Step 2: Cook meatloaf slices

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-low to medium heat, then lay your meatloaf slices gently in the pan. Cook each side for 3 to 5 minutes until they develop a slightly golden crust and are comfortably heated through. This step transforms the meatloaf’s texture, giving it a crispy outer layer that’s irresistible.

Step 3: Melt cheese over meatloaf

Fold each cheese slice to create a thick layer and place it atop each warm meatloaf slice. Add a tablespoon of water to the skillet and cover it with a lid to steam the cheese for 30 seconds to a minute, until it melts perfectly gooey. This melted cheese seals in the flavor and brings a luscious creaminess.

Step 4: Toast bread and spread sauce

Toast your sandwich bread slices to your favorite level of crispness—this adds a fantastic crunch that contrasts the soft meatloaf. Then, spread your homemade barbecue mayo generously over one side of each toast slice; this spread infuses every bite with tang and creaminess.

Step 5: Assemble sandwiches

Now comes the fun part: on two bread slices with barbecue mayo side up, place the cheesy meatloaf, then top with thin slices of red onion and a drizzle of yellow mustard for that extra zing. Close the sandwiches with the remaining bread slices, mayo side down. Serve immediately and prepare for a delightful hearty treat!

How to Serve Cheesy Leftover Meatloaf Sandwich Recipe

A white bowl holds a smooth, creamy light brown sauce with tiny black specks visible throughout. In the bowl, a metal whisk is partially dipped, mixing the sauce gently. A woman's hand with bright pink nail polish decorated with small blue and black floral patterns is holding the handle of the whisk. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with soft lighting from above, giving the sauce a slight shine. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Simple garnishes like fresh pickle slices or a few dill sprigs elevate the sandwich’s flavor while adding a crisp freshness. A little extra red onion or a sprinkle of smoked paprika can also brighten up the presentation and taste.

Side Dishes

This sandwich pairs beautifully with classic sides like crispy French fries, a colorful garden salad, or even creamy coleslaw. For a cozy meal, bowl up some tomato soup for dipping and savor the comforting combination.

Creative Ways to Present

Try cutting the sandwich diagonally into triangles for an inviting look, or serve open-faced with an egg on top for a brunch twist. Wrapping it up tightly in parchment paper makes it perfect for picnics or packed lunches that feel special yet easy.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftover sandwiches, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store in the fridge. They’re best enjoyed within 1 to 2 days to maintain freshness and soft bread texture.

Freezing

While fresh is always best, you can freeze these sandwiches wrapped well in freezer paper or airtight bags for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to keep the flavors intact.

Reheating

To reheat, place the sandwich in a skillet over medium heat, pressing lightly with a spatula, heating a few minutes on each side until warmed through and the cheese softens again. Avoid microwaving as it may make the bread soggy.

FAQs

Can I use fresh meatloaf instead of leftovers?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with freshly cooked meatloaf; just slice it thick enough to hold up during cooking and melting the cheese.

What types of cheese work best for this sandwich?

Processed cheese melts reliably, but you can experiment with cheddar, mozzarella, or provolone for different flavor profiles and meltiness.

Is there a substitute for barbecue sauce in the mayo spread?

If you prefer, try using ketchup mixed with a bit of Worcestershire sauce or even a spicy sriracha mayo for a different but equally delicious twist.

Can I make this sandwich vegetarian?

While the original relies on meatloaf, you can swap in a vegetarian meatloaf or thick grilled veggie patties and keep the rest of the recipe intact for a meat-free treat.

How can I make the sandwich less messy to eat?

Use sturdier bread like a rustic loaf or ciabatta and make sure the barbecue mayo is spread thinly. Wrapping the sandwich snugly before serving also helps keep everything in place.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Leftover Meatloaf Sandwich Recipe is a true champion for anyone looking to reinvent leftovers with heart and flavor. It’s quick, easy, and endlessly satisfying—a real crowd-pleaser perfect for turning ordinary meatloaf into an extraordinary meal. Give it a try and watch your leftovers become the highlight of your day!

Cheesy Leftover Meatloaf Sandwich Recipe

Ingredients You'll Need