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Have you ever tried a hot meatloaf sandwich? It is, hands-down, the best thing you’ll ever do with leftover meatloaf! Or, who says you need leftover meatloaf really? I’m all about making an entire meatloaf specifically for the purpose of enjoying it in this meatloaf sandwich. And I won’t stop at dinner, either. This one’s a hearty sandwich you can have at any meal, breakfast included. 😉

If you’re in the mood for another classic comfort food dinner, my homemade sloppy joe recipe is always a hit, and just as easy to make.
meatloaf sandwich: best served hot!
Now for a very important question- do you like your meatloaf sandwich hot or cold? I find that both are pretty tasty, but this meatloaf sandwich recipe is made to be enjoyed hot.
The meatloaf is served on ciabatta buns with marinara, mozzarella (or provolone) and finished off with slices of fresh basil. It’s all heated together in the oven which results in a deliciously toasted hot sandwich, complete with gooey, melted cheese and lots of Italian-inspired flavor! It’s best served hot, but if you’re the type who enjoys cold leftovers, you do you. 😉
how to make it
First things first, you’ll need some meatloaf. We have a few different meatloaf recipes on Savor the Best, including:
Here’s everything you need for this five-ingredient recipe:
- ciabatta buns
- marinara sauce
- grated mozzarella or provolone cheese
- leftover meatloaf
- fresh basil, sliced into strips

This hot meatloaf sandwich takes just a few minutes to assemble, and a few more minutes to get it toasted just right! Here’s the process (check out the full recipe at the bottom of the page):
- Toast the ciabatta buns- Preheat the oven to 450°F, split the ciabatta buns, and lay them on a baking sheet, cut side up. Toast 5-8 minutes or until they’re golden brown.
- Assemble the layers- Spread a thick layer of marinara sauce on top of the buns, place meatloaf on one side of each bun, then pile shredded cheese on top of the meatloaf. Toast in the oven for another 5-8 minutes or until the cheese gets all melted and gooey.
- Final touch- Remove from the oven and pile the sliced basil leaves on top of the melted cheese. Close the sandwich and enjoy while hot!

We know you’ll love this hot meatloaf sandwich- it’s hearty and full of meaty flavor, the best comfort food in sandwich form! Plus, it’s so simple to make and easy to customize based on what you have on hand.
If you’re a fan of hearty, messy sandwiches (the kind that require extra napkins), check out our patty melts. They’re like the meatloaf sandwich’s griddled cousin with a cheesy, oniony attitude.
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Hot Meatloaf Sandwich
If you make this recipe, please leave a star rating and comment.
Ingredients
- 2 ciabatta buns
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup grated mozzarella , or provolone cheese
- 2 leftover meatloaf, thick sliced
- 1 bunch fresh basil , sliced into strips
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 450°F.
- Split open the ciabatta buns and lay on a baking sheet, cut side up.
- Toast in the oven until golden brown (about 5 to 8 minutes).
- Spread the toasted buns with a thick layer of marinara sauce. Top one side of each bun with the meatloaf then pile shredded cheese over the tops.
- Return to the oven for 5 to 8 minutes or until the cheese melts.
- Pile the sliced basil leaves on top and close the sandwich.
- Enjoy while hot.
Video
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

I did something similar with brioche buns 🙂 Yours looks super yummy with crusty ciabatta buns.
Thanks Angie 😉