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This cheese-stuffed, bacon-wrapped meatloaf is the kind of cozy main dish that'll totally wow your guests—and you don't need any fancy skills to whip it up. You'll get juicy beef, gooey cheese, and crispy bacon in every slice. Who could say no?
I make this meatloaf every time the family gets together. It's gone before you know it. My picky nephews keep coming back for more.
Tasty Ingredients
- 255 grams bacon: go for medium-cut strips for the best wrap—not too thick, not too thin
- 125 ml shredded mozzarella: pick a type that melts nicely in the oven
- 125 ml BBQ sauce: any flavor works, sweet or spicy, just go with what you like
- Salt, pepper, and paprika: sprinkle as much as you want, paprika brings a lovely smoky vibe
- 165 ml breadcrumbs: use plain so you can control the taste
- 2 eggs: they help everything stick together
- 900 grams ground beef: 15–20% fat is your friend—keeps things moist and tasty
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Let’s Get It Cooking:
- Set the oven to 175°C and move the rack to the middle spot so it bakes evenly.
- Bacon Layer:
- Lay two-thirds of your bacon across your lined loaf pan, letting some hang over so you can fold it over the top when you're done.
- Meat Mixture Time:
- Mix the beef, eggs, breadcrumbs, and your spices in a big bowl—get in there with your hands but don’t squish it too much or it'll get tough.
- Get the Pan Ready:
- Grab some parchment and line your loaf pan, making sure there’s extra at the ends so you can pull it out after baking.
- Start the Meat Base:
- Press two-thirds of the beef mix into the bacon-lined pan, shaping a hollow section down the middle.
- Load That Cheese:
- Put the mozzarella right into the dip in the meat, then cover it up entirely with the rest of your beef mix, pinching the edges so no cheese sneaks out.
- Bacon on Top:
- Wrap the bacon hanging over the sides up onto the loaf, then place the rest of your strips right on top to cover everything fully.
- First Bake:
- Pour a third of your BBQ sauce over the top and bake for about 40 minutes until the bacon starts turning golden and the meat firms up.
- More Sauce:
- Take it out, slather another third of BBQ sauce over, and pop it back in the oven.
- Last Finishing Touch:
- Give it 20 more minutes, brush over the rest of your sauce, and make sure it hits 71°C inside for the perfect cook.
First time I pulled this off was for my dad’s birthday. He liked it so much he took the leftovers home. That never happens!
Storing and Reheating
Pop leftovers in a well-sealed container in the fridge—they’ll be good for up to 3 days. To heat, slice it thick and stick it in a 160°C oven for a few minutes to keep that bacon crisp. Skip the microwave—your bacon will just get soft.
Fun Twists to Try
Don’t stop at mozzarella. Sharp cheddar, smoky gouda, or even blue cheese give things a bigger kick. Toss in chopped peppers or mushrooms with the meat for more flavor and a veggie hit.
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Awesome Sides
Pair this meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes and something green like roasted asparagus or green beans. Scoop some sauce onto the mashed potatoes for extra goodness—everyone at home will want seconds.
Pro Tips
- Let it sit for ten minutes before you cut—it’ll stay juicy and the melty cheese won’t run everywhere
- Want to nail the doneness? Use a thermometer and make sure the middle is at 71°C
- If you crave super crisp bacon, flick the broiler on for 2 to 3 minutes at the end, but keep your eye on it so it doesn’t burn
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I stop the meatloaf from falling apart?
Make sure to mix the eggs, breadcrumbs, and ground meat thoroughly. This binds everything together so it stays intact.
- → Can I swap bacon for another type of meat?
Absolutely, you can use pancetta or prosciutto for a delicious alternative.
- → What sauce pairs best with this dish?
BBQ sauce is a great option because it complements the bacon and cheese perfectly. You can also try homemade tomato sauce or peppercorn gravy.
- → Can I use a different cheese?
Definitely, you can swap mozzarella for cheddar, Swiss, or even blue cheese for a stronger flavor profile.
- → How can I tell if the meatloaf is fully cooked?
Use a thermometer to check that the internal temperature hits 160°F (70°C). This ensures it's properly cooked.