Cheesy Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Meatloaf

Description

If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food, this Cheesy Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Meatloaf is guaranteed to impress. Juicy, flavorful ground beef is seasoned with herbs, garlic, onion, and spices, then stuffed with a rich mixture of gooey cheddar and mozzarella cheese. The entire loaf is carefully wrapped in crispy bacon, brushed with a sweet and tangy glaze, and baked until beautifully caramelized. Every slice reveals a delicious cheesy center surrounded by tender, perfectly seasoned meat and smoky bacon.

This meatloaf is perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or meal prep because it reheats beautifully. The bacon keeps the meat incredibly moist while adding a smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the melted cheese. Serve it alongside creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, green beans, or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or simply craving a hearty homemade dinner, this stuffed meatloaf is a recipe everyone will ask you to make again.

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf

2 lbs (900g) lean ground beef (80/20)
1 cup breadcrumbs
2 large eggs
1 small onion, finely diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
2 tbsp ketchup
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Cheese Filling

1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tbsp cooked bacon bits (optional)

Bacon Wrap

12–14 slices thick-cut bacon

Glaze

½ cup ketchup
2 tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper or lightly grease a baking dish.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix gently until everything is evenly incorporated. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
In a separate bowl, mix together the cheddar, mozzarella, and bacon bits.
Place the meat mixture onto parchment paper and flatten it into a rectangle approximately 10 x 14 inches.
Spread the cheese mixture evenly down the center, leaving about a 1-inch border around the edges.
Carefully roll the meat around the cheese filling, sealing the edges well so the cheese stays inside while baking.
Arrange the bacon slices slightly overlapping across the top and wrap them completely around the meatloaf. Tuck the bacon ends underneath.
Transfer the loaf to the prepared baking tray.
Mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Brush half of the glaze generously over the bacon.
Bake for 45 minutes.
Remove the meatloaf, brush with the remaining glaze, and continue baking for another 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
For extra crispy bacon, broil for 2–4 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
Let the meatloaf rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices and melted cheese to settle.
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.

Tips & Notes

Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melt.
Thick-cut bacon creates a crispier, more flavorful exterior.
Don’t skip the resting time—it helps prevent the cheese from running out.
Add diced jalapeños to the filling for a spicy version.
Leftovers make incredible sandwiches the next day.
Store refrigerated for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes. Ground turkey works well, though the texture will be slightly leaner. Add a tablespoon of olive oil if needed.

Can I prepare it ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble the meatloaf up to one day ahead, cover tightly, and refrigerate until ready to bake.

What cheese melts best?
A combination of cheddar and mozzarella provides both rich flavor and a stretchy, creamy center.

Servings

Serves: 8 people

Approximate Nutrition (Per Serving)

Calories: 540
Protein: 38g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fat: 37g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 880mg