Mozzarella-Stuffed Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Looking for a hearty, cheesy, and flavor-packed main dish that will wow your family or dinner guests? This Mozzarella-Stuffed Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf is a delicious twist on the classic meatloaf—filled with gooey mozzarella cheese and wrapped in crispy bacon for the ultimate bite. It’s juicy, indulgent, and easy to make with pantry staples.

This recipe goes beyond the basics and gives you everything you need: clear instructions, expert tips, serving ideas, and even storage options. Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Meatloaf Recipe

Cheesy Center: Melty mozzarella in every slice.
Crispy Bacon Wrap: Adds smoky flavor and irresistible texture.
Meal Prep Friendly: Make ahead and reheat perfectly.
Family Favorite: Kids and adults both love it.

Ingredients You’ll Need

2 lbs (900g) ground beef (80/20 blend works best)
1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
1/4 cup milk
1 large egg
1/2 small onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp ground black pepper
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
8 oz (about 225g) mozzarella cheese, cut into sticks
10–12 slices bacon
Optional: ketchup or BBQ sauce for topping

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Oven and Baking Sheet

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Line a baking sheet or loaf pan with aluminum foil for easier cleanup.

2. Make the Meatloaf Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, gently combine:

Ground beef
Breadcrumbs
Milk
Egg
Onion
Garlic
Salt, pepper, paprika
Worcestershire sauce

Tip: Do not overmix. This can make the meatloaf dense and tough.

3. Flatten and Stuff

Place the meat mixture on a large piece of parchment paper.
Press it into a rectangular shape about ½ inch thick.
Lay mozzarella sticks lengthwise down the center.
Carefully fold the sides over to cover the cheese completely.
Press edges and ends to seal.

4. Wrap in Bacon

Lay bacon slices over the top of the loaf, slightly overlapping.
Tuck ends of the bacon underneath the loaf to hold everything together.

5. Add Sauce (Optional)

If using ketchup or BBQ sauce, brush it over the bacon for extra flavor and color.

6. Bake to Perfection

Transfer the loaf to your lined baking sheet.
Bake for 55 to 65 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Optional: Broil the top for the last 3–5 minutes to crisp up the bacon.

Let It Rest Before Slicing

Once out of the oven, let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before cutting. This helps the cheese set and prevents it from spilling out. Billion Dollar Buttery Biscuits

Serving Suggestions

Pair this meatloaf with:

Creamy mashed potatoes
Roasted vegetables
A side salad with vinaigrette
Garlic bread or dinner rolls

It also works great for sandwiches the next day!

Storage Tips

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheat: Bake covered at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through or microwave individual slices.

Nutrition Info (Per Serving, Approximate)

Calories: 450–500
Protein: 30g
Fat: 35g
Carbs: 6–10g

FAQs

Can I use other cheeses?
Yes! Cheddar, gouda, or pepper jack are all great choices.

Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely. Just note that leaner meats may require a bit more fat (like olive oil or butter) to stay moist.

What if I don’t have Worcestershire sauce?
You can substitute with soy sauce or a splash of balsamic vinegar for depth.

Final Thoughts

This mozzarella-stuffed bacon-wrapped meatloaf is a showstopper. Whether you’re serving it for a Sunday family dinner, a holiday meal, or simply craving something ultra satisfying, it’s guaranteed to impress. Make it once, and it just might become your go-to meatloaf recipe.