Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf Cheese Stuffed
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with the hearty, savory goodness of meatloaf. But when you take it up a notch with melty cheese inside and crispy bacon outside, you create something truly unforgettable. That’s exactly what this bacon wrapped meatloaf cheese stuffed recipe delivers a juicy, flavorful loaf packed with cheddar, wrapped in smoky bacon, and glazed to perfection.
This isn’t just any meatloaf; it’s the kind of recipe that turns a simple family dinner into a feast. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd, preparing a special weekend meal, or simply craving something indulgent, this dish is guaranteed to impress.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious bacon wrapped meatloaf cheese stuffed recipe:
For the Meatloaf
- 1 soft roll, cut into small cubes (or 2 slices white bread, crust removed)
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus 1 1/2 cups for stuffing)
- 1/3 cup chopped parsley
- 2 eggs
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 1/2 lbs ground sirloin
- 1 1/2 lbs ground chuck
- 14 slices bacon
For the Glaze
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons white wine vinegar
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the glaze
In a small bowl, mix together ketchup, brown sugar, and white wine vinegar until smooth. Set aside. This glaze will caramelize beautifully in the oven and balance the smoky bacon.
Step 2: Prepare the bread mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed bread (or slices) with milk. Let it soak until the bread is soft and mushy—this will keep the meatloaf moist.
Step 3: Sauté the aromatics
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Season lightly with salt and pepper, then remove from heat and allow to cool.
Step 4: Mix the base
Add the cooled onion and garlic mixture to the soaked bread. Stir in Parmesan cheese, 1/2 cup shredded cheddar, parsley, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, chili powder, and paprika. Mix with a fork until evenly combined.
Step 5: Add the meat
Gently fold in the ground sirloin and ground chuck. Season with salt and pepper. Use your hands to mix just until combined—overworking the meat can make the loaf dense and dry.
Step 6: Shape and stuff the loaf
Place two-thirds of the meat mixture onto a broiler pan. With wet hands, shape it into a loaf about 9 by 5 inches. Press a well into the center, leaving a rim around the edges. Fill the hollow with the remaining cheddar cheese. Cover with the rest of the meat mixture, sealing the edges well so the cheese stays inside. Smooth the surface with damp hands.
Step 7: Wrap with bacon and glaze
Brush the meatloaf with the prepared glaze. Arrange bacon slices over the loaf, slightly overlapping, and tuck the ends underneath to prevent curling.
Step 8: Bake to perfection
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the bacon is crisp and the internal temperature reaches 160°F. Remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute for a moist, tender loaf.
About the Recipe
Why it works
Classic meatloaf has always been a comfort food staple, but adding bacon and cheese transforms it into a show-stopping centerpiece. The bacon locks in moisture while adding smoky flavor, and the melted cheddar inside ensures every slice is gooey and rich.
Helpful tips
- Use a mix of meats: Combining sirloin and chuck gives you the perfect balance of lean and fatty meat, keeping the loaf tender.
- Don’t skip the resting time: Cutting too early can make the cheese ooze out and the juices run.
- Crispier bacon hack: If you want extra-crispy bacon, broil the meatloaf for the last 2–3 minutes of cooking.
Variations
- Try swapping cheddar with mozzarella or pepper jack for a different cheesy surprise.
- Add jalapeños or chili flakes to the filling if you like extra spice.
- Use barbecue sauce instead of ketchup glaze for a smoky-sweet twist.
Serving suggestions
This bacon wrapped meatloaf cheese stuffed pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. It also makes amazing leftovers—slice it up for sandwiches the next day.
Nutrition insights
While indulgent, this recipe provides plenty of protein and calcium from the meat and cheese. To lighten it up, you can use turkey bacon, leaner beef, or even replace half the meat with ground turkey or chicken.
Conclusion
This bacon wrapped meatloaf cheese stuffed recipe takes everything you love about traditional meatloaf and makes it extraordinary. Juicy beef, smoky bacon, melty cheese, and a tangy glaze come together for a dish that’s hearty, satisfying, and guaranteed to impress.
It’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for family dinners, holidays, or anytime you want to serve a meal that feels both rustic and special. So gather your ingredients, wrap that loaf in bacon, and get ready to enjoy one of the most delicious meatloafs you’ve ever had.
