Mozzarella Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf (Print Format)

Tender beef filled with mozzarella, wrapped in bacon, and topped with a sweet-savory glaze for extra flair.

# Ingredients:

→ Meatloaf

01 - 1.5 lb ground beef (or beef blend)
02 - 1 cup breadcrumbs
03 - 2 large eggs
04 - 0.5 cup milk
05 - 1 small onion, finely diced
06 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
07 - 1 tsp paprika
08 - 0.5 tsp garlic powder
09 - 0.5 tsp onion powder
10 - Salt & black pepper to taste

→ Filling

11 - 1.5 cups mozzarella-style cheese, sliced or shredded

→ Wrap & Topping

12 - 8-10 bacon strips
13 - 0.5 cup ketchup-style sauce
14 - 2 tbsp brown sugar (optional)
15 - Optional garnish: chopped parsley

# Steps:

01 - Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.
02 - In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, onion, garlic, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined—overmixing can make the meatloaf dense.
03 - Press half of the meat mixture into a loaf shape. Add mozzarella evenly down the center. Top with the remaining meat mixture and seal the edges well so the cheese stays inside.
04 - Lay bacon strips slightly overlapping on a clean surface. Place the meatloaf on top and wrap bacon around it, tucking the ends underneath.
05 - Mix ketchup-style sauce with brown sugar if using. Brush generously over the bacon-wrapped meatloaf.
06 - Bake uncovered for 50–60 minutes, until cooked through and the bacon is crispy. Optional: Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end for extra crispiness.
07 - Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve warm.

# Tips:

01 - Use cold cheese—it melts more slowly and stays centered
02 - Don’t overmix the meat mixture for a tender result
03 - Overlap bacon strips slightly to avoid gaps
04 - Allow the meatloaf to rest before slicing to retain juices