Ultimate Bacon-Wrapped Cheese-Stuffed Meatloaf
📖 Description
Get ready for the ultimate comfort food! This Bacon-Wrapped Cheese-Stuffed Meatloaf is made with juicy seasoned ground beef, a generous layer of gooey melted cheese, crispy bacon, and a delicious sweet-and-smoky BBQ glaze. The outside becomes beautifully caramelized while the inside stays tender and juicy.
When sliced, the melted cheese creates an irresistible center surrounded by flavorful beef and smoky bacon. It is perfect for a hearty family dinner, weekend gathering, holiday meal, or whenever you want to turn classic meatloaf into something extra special. Serve it with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, corn, coleslaw, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
🍽️ Recipe
🥩 Ingredients
For the meatloaf:
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1½ lb (700 g) ground beef
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1 large egg
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½ cup breadcrumbs
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½ small onion, finely chopped
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
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1 tbsp ketchup
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1 tsp salt
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1 tsp black pepper
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1 tsp smoked paprika
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½ tsp onion powder
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½ tsp garlic powder
For the filling:
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1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
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1 cup shredded mozzarella
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4–6 slices cooked bacon, chopped
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½ cup caramelized onions, optional
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2 tbsp cream cheese, optional
For wrapping:
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10–14 strips bacon
For the glaze:
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½ cup BBQ sauce
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2 tbsp ketchup
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1 tbsp honey
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1 tbsp brown sugar
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1 tsp smoked paprika
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½ tsp black pepper
👨🍳 Instructions
1. Prepare the beef:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Add the ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, salt, pepper, paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder to a large bowl. Mix gently until everything is combined. Avoid overmixing.
2. Shape the first layer:
Place parchment paper on your work surface and spread about half of the meat mixture into an even rectangle.
3. Add the cheesy filling:
Spread cheddar and mozzarella over the center. Add chopped bacon and caramelized onions. For extra creaminess, add small pieces of cream cheese.
4. Seal the meatloaf:
Cover the filling with the remaining meat mixture. Carefully press and seal all edges so the cheese stays inside during baking.
5. Wrap with bacon:
Arrange bacon strips slightly overlapping on parchment. Place the meatloaf on top and wrap the bacon around it. Place it seam-side down on a lined baking tray.
6. Make the glaze:
Mix BBQ sauce, ketchup, honey, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and black pepper in a small bowl.
7. Bake:
Bake for approximately 50–65 minutes. During the final 20 minutes, brush generously with the BBQ glaze. Brush again during the final few minutes for a glossy, caramelized coating.
8. Crisp the bacon:
For an extra-crispy finish, increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) for the final 5–10 minutes. Watch closely so the glaze doesn’t burn.
9. Check and rest:
The center should reach 160°F (71°C) for ground beef. Remove from the oven and let the meatloaf rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing.
🔥 Pro Tip
Don’t cut the meatloaf immediately after removing it from the oven. Resting allows the juices to redistribute and gives the melted cheese time to settle, resulting in cleaner slices and a much better presentation.
❓ Q&A
Q: Can I use a different cheese?
A: Absolutely! Cheddar and mozzarella work beautifully, but Monterey Jack, Gouda, Colby, or Pepper Jack are also delicious.
Q: Can I prepare it ahead of time?
A: Yes. Assemble the meatloaf, cover it tightly, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Add the glaze during cooking.
Q: How do I make the bacon extra crispy?
A: Finish the meatloaf at 425°F (220°C) for a few minutes, keeping a close eye on the bacon and glaze.
Q: What should I serve with it?
A: Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, green beans, corn, coleslaw, or a crisp salad are excellent choices.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container and consume within a few days. Reheat individual slices gently until heated through.
