Cheesy Bacon Meatloaf

 

Cheesy Bacon Meatloaf – The Ultimate Comfort Food Upgrade

If you think meatloaf is boring, think again. This Cheesy Bacon Meatloaf takes the classic comfort food and kicks it up several notches with melty cheese, crispy bacon, and bold flavor in every bite. It's juicy, savory, and incredibly satisfying — the kind of hearty dinner that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds (and maybe even fighting over leftovers).

Whether you're feeding a hungry family or looking for the perfect cozy meal, this meatloaf is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. And the best part? It’s just as easy to make as the original — but way more exciting.

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🧀🥓 Why You’ll Love This Meatloaf

• Bacon makes everything better – and here, it adds smoky crunch on top and inside.

• Cheesy center – A surprise layer of melty cheese takes it over the top.

• Perfectly seasoned – A flavorful mix of spices, onion, and garlic means no bland bites.

• Great leftovers – Slice it up for sandwiches the next day!

• Family favorite – Even picky eaters go back for more.

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🛒 Ingredients

• 1 1/2 lbs ground beef (80/20 works best)

• 1 cup breadcrumbs

• 1/2 cup milk

• 1 egg

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella for a milder flavor)

• 6–8 slices of bacon

• Optional: 1/4 cup ketchup or BBQ sauce for glazing the top

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.

2. Make the meat mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined — don’t overwork it.

3. Shape and stuff: On your baking sheet, shape half the meat mixture into a loaf. Sprinkle shredded cheese in the center, leaving space around the edges. Cover with the remaining meat mixture, sealing the cheese inside.

4. Top with bacon: Lay bacon strips across the top of the loaf, tucking the ends underneath. For extra flavor, brush the top with ketchup or BBQ sauce.

5. Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

6. Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or your favorite comfort food sides.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

• Classic sides: Mashed potatoes, green beans, corn on the cob

• Low-carb option: Serve with cauliflower mash or a leafy green salad

• Leftover idea: Make a killer meatloaf sandwich with toasted bread, a smear of BBQ sauce, and melted cheese

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🧊 Storage Tips

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days

• Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating

• To reheat: Warm slices in the oven or microwave until heated through

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📝 Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Bacon Meatloaf is proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be boring. It’s rich, flavorful, and packed with everything you love — smoky bacon, gooey cheese, and juicy beef all wrapped into one delicious loaf. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a hug at the end of a long day.

So next time you’re craving something hearty and homemade, skip the takeout and give this recipe a try. Your taste buds (and your dinner guests) will thank you.

🥓🧀🍽️ Save this recipe — it might just become your new favorite meatloaf!