Bacon Wrapped Cheese Stuffed Meatloaf
A delightful twist on a classic comfort food, this Bacon Wrapped Cheese Stuffed Meatloaf combines seasoned beef, gooey cheese, and crispy bacon for a heartwarming family meal.
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
For variations, consider incorporating finely chopped mushrooms or spinach, using different cheeses like pepper jack or blue cheese, or using ground turkey or chicken as a leaner option. For holidays, blend in chopped nuts for added texture.