Introduction
There’s something undeniably heartwarming about a homemade meal that fills the kitchen with rich, savory aromas—a smell that evokes memories of family gatherings and cozy nights at home. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Bacon Wrapped Cheese Stuffed Meatloaf. This indulgent twist on a classic comfort food combines flavorful seasoned beef with gooey melted cheese and is enveloped in crispy bacon, creating a dish that’s not only delicious but also a fantastic centerpiece for any family meal. So grab your aprons, and let’s create this delightful feast together!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Bacon Wrapped Cheese Stuffed Meatloaf is all about the joys of shared meals, making it a hit at dinner tables everywhere. Here are some heartfelt reasons to fall in love with this recipe:
- Delicious Flavors: The combination of seasoned ground beef, melty cheese, and smoky bacon creates layers of flavor that will have you coming back for seconds.
- Easy to Prepare: Though it sounds fancy, this dish is surprisingly simple and requires just a few steps to get it into the oven.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for families and gatherings, this meatloaf is sure to impress even the pickiest eaters.
- Budget-Friendly: With affordable ingredients, it’s a meal that won’t break the bank but will fill hearts and stomachs.
- Comforting: There’s nothing like a hearty slice of meatloaf, especially when it’s topped with crispy bacon, to warm you up on a chilly evening.
Ingredients
Let’s gather our ingredients that transform this dish from simple to spectacular:
- 2 pounds ground beef: Aim for an 80/20 mix for that perfect balance of flavor and juiciness.
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend): Cheese is the heart of the indulgence!
- 1 cup breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch or standard breadcrumbs will work just fine.
- 1/2 cup milk: This keeps the meatloaf moist and tender.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: A splash of umami magic.
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped: Sweeter if you sauté it a bit first.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Because garlic makes everything better.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings for enhancing flavors.
- 8-10 strips of bacon: Use a thick-cut variety for extra texture.
- Optional toppings: Ketchup or barbecue sauce for glazing.
Prep and Cook Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
This recipe is perfect for a make-ahead option—prepare it in advance and let the flavors meld, making it even tastier when you finally bake it!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your meatloaf starts cooking in a perfectly warm environment.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix it with your hands until just combined—you want to avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
- Form the Meatloaf: On a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, shape your meat mixture into a rectangle, about 8×10 inches.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the meatloaf, then roll it tightly from the shorter side to form a log. Pinch the ends to seal the cheese inside; this is where the magic happens!
- Wrap with Bacon: Lay the bacon strips over the top of the meatloaf, weaving them to ensure even coverage. Secure with toothpicks if needed.
- Bake: Place your masterpiece in the oven and bake for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
- Glaze Optional: If you prefer a glaze, take it out about 10 minutes before it’s done, brush with ketchup or barbecue sauce, and return to the oven for the final touch.
- Rest and Serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing; it helps keep all that cheesy goodness inside!
Variations and Twists
Don’t hesitate to get creative! Here are a few ideas to customize your Bacon Wrapped Cheese Stuffed Meatloaf:
- Vegetable Add-Ins: Incorporate finely chopped mushrooms or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
- Different Cheeses: Try pepper jack for a spicy kick or blue cheese for a bold twist.
- Healthy Swaps: Use ground turkey or chicken as a leaner option while keeping the cheese and bacon for flavor.
- Festive Treat: For holidays, blend in chopped nuts for added texture and elegance.
Serving Suggestions
Picture this: your beautifully baked Bacon Wrapped Cheese Stuffed Meatloaf resting on a large serving platter, everyone gathered around the table, forks at the ready. Pair it with creamy mashed potatoes, honey-glazed carrots, or a fresh green salad. This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s a slice of family tradition and love on a plate.
Storage and Reheating
If you find yourself with leftover meatloaf (though it’s hard to resist), here’s how to save it:
- Storing: Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil, or place it in an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze slices for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Gently reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through; it keeps the bacon crispy and the inside deliciously cheesy.
Kitchen Tips for Success
- Patience is Key: Let your meatloaf rest before slicing to keep it juicy.
- Bacon Magic: Using thicker bacon not only adds flavor but also holds together the meatloaf better.
- Sizzling Aromas: Sauté the onions before mixing them in for deeper flavor.
- Do Not Overmix: Treat the mixture gently to keep the final product light and fluffy.
FAQs
- Can I substitute the beef? Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works well, just ensure you keep the bacon for added flavor and moisture.
- Can I prep this in advance? Yes! Assemble the meatloaf a day ahead of time and bake it right before serving.
- How many servings does this yield? This recipe will serve about 8 people, ideal for a family gathering or leftovers!
Conclusion
As you experience the warmth and joy this Bacon Wrapped Cheese Stuffed Meatloaf brings, remember it’s more than just a dinner—it’s about sharing love at the table. Families and friends come together, laughter fills the air, and the memories made around this dish will linger long after the last bite. So gather your loved ones, cook up this heartwarming recipe, and enjoy the cozy conversations that follow. Happy cooking!
Contents
Bacon Wrapped Cheese Stuffed Meatloaf
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef 80/20 mix recommended
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend) Cheese is the heart of the indulgence!
- 1 cup breadcrumbs Panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch or standard breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk Keeps the meatloaf moist and tender
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce A splash of umami magic
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped Sweeter if sautéed first
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder Because garlic makes everything better
- to taste salt and pepper Essential seasonings for enhancing flavors
- 8-10 strips bacon Use a thick-cut variety for extra texture
- optional toppings (ketchup or barbecue sauce) For glazing
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure your meatloaf starts cooking in a perfectly warm environment.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix it with your hands until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
- On a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, shape your meat mixture into a rectangle, about 8 x 10 inches.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the meatloaf, then roll it tightly from the shorter side to form a log. Pinch the ends to seal the cheese inside.
- Lay the bacon strips over the top of the meatloaf, weaving them to ensure even coverage. Secure with toothpicks if needed.
Cooking
- Place your masterpiece in the oven and bake for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
- If you prefer a glaze, take it out about 10 minutes before it’s done, brush with ketchup or barbecue sauce, and return to the oven for the final touch.
Serving
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing to help keep all that cheesy goodness inside!
Notes
Written by Salaheddine — founder of Tasty Sunrise, sharing easy and comforting homemade recipes for every occasion.
📩 admin@tastysunrise.com • Pinterest