Cheesy Bacon Wrapped Meat Loaf: The Ultimate Juicy
Cheesy Bacon Wrapped Meat Loaf is a flavorful twist on traditional meat loaf, featuring seasoned ground beef stuffed with melted cheese and wrapped in crispy bacon. The result is a juicy, tender loaf packed with rich, savory flavors and an irresistible cheesy center. Easy enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive enough for special occasions, this dish is a crowd-pleaser for all ages. The bacon helps lock in moisture while adding a smoky crunch. Paired with classic side dishes, it creates a complete comfort-food meal that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
For the Meat Loaf
- 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup milk
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
For the Cheese Filling
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese
For the Bacon Wrap
- 12–14 bacon strips
For the Glaze
- ½ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet or loaf pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, onion, garlic, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Mix gently until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Place the meat mixture on parchment paper and flatten into a large rectangle.
- Spread the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly down the center.
- Carefully fold the meat around the cheese and shape into a loaf, sealing all edges.
- Arrange bacon strips across the loaf, slightly overlapping.
- Mix ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard to create the glaze.
- Brush half of the glaze over the bacon.
- Bake for 45 minutes.
- Brush with the remaining glaze and continue baking for 15–20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Allow the meat loaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting.
- Do not overmix the meat mixture.
- Seal the edges well to prevent cheese leakage.
- Thick-cut bacon may require additional cooking time.
- Resting the loaf helps retain juices.
- A meat thermometer ensures perfect doneness.
- Lean beef may produce a drier loaf.
- Leftovers make excellent sandwiches.