Stuffed Cheese and Bacon Meatloaf
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf
2 lbs (900 g) ground beef
1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
4–5 slices cooked bacon, chopped
½ cup breadcrumbs
¼ cup milk
1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 large egg
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Glaze
½ cup ketchup
2 tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a baking dish.
2. Prepare the Breadcrumbs
Place the breadcrumbs in a small bowl and pour in the milk. Let them soak for 5 minutes to soften. This helps keep the meatloaf moist and tender.
3. Mix the Meatloaf
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, soaked breadcrumbs, diced onion, minced garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until everything is combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
4. Add the Cheese and Bacon Filling
Divide the meat mixture into two portions. Shape the first portion into a thick rectangle on the prepared baking sheet.
Spread the shredded cheese and chopped cooked bacon down the center, leaving the edges clear. Place the remaining meat mixture on top and seal all the edges firmly so the cheese stays inside during baking.
5. Prepare the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar until smooth.
Brush half of the glaze over the top of the meatloaf.
6. Bake the Meatloaf
Bake for 50 minutes. Remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread the remaining glaze over the top.
Return it to the oven for another 10–15 minutes, or until the center reaches 160°F (71°C) for ground beef.
7. Rest and Serve
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to settle and helps the melted cheese stay inside.
Slice and serve warm with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.
Tips
Seal the edges well: Pinch all seams tightly to prevent the cheese from leaking out.
Choose the right cheese: Cheddar gives a rich flavor, while mozzarella creates a stretchy, gooey center.
Cook the bacon first: Use cooked, chopped bacon for a smoky, crispy flavor.
Keep it moist: Avoid overmixing the beef, and don’t skip soaking the breadcrumbs in milk.
Let it rest: Resting for 10 minutes makes slicing easier and keeps the filling in place.
