Mozzarella Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf for Dinner

If you’re looking for a way to elevate the humble meatloaf, look no further than Mozzarella Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf. This recipe combines the best of both worlds—classic, savory meatloaf with a gooey mozzarella center and a crispy bacon exterior. It’s a delicious, crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or simply when you want to indulge in comfort food with a twist. In this article, we’ll walk you through every step of the recipe, offer helpful tips, and provide insights into why this Mozzarella Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love Mozzarella Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf

1. A Flavor Explosion

The combination of mozzarella cheese and crispy bacon is undeniably delicious. The mozzarella cheese melts beautifully inside the meatloaf, creating a creamy, gooey center that pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of the ground beef and spices. The bacon wrapping adds an extra layer of flavor and crunch, making each bite irresistible.

2. A Show-Stopping Presentation

Not only does this dish taste amazing, but it also looks stunning when served. The bacon-wrapped exterior gives the meatloaf a gorgeous, golden-brown finish, while the melted mozzarella oozes from the center when you slice it open. It’s a recipe that’s sure to impress your guests.

3. Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a weeknight dinner, a family gathering, or a special holiday meal, Mozzarella Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf fits the bill. The recipe is easy to prepare, yet sophisticated enough to be the star of any meal.

Ingredients for Mozzarella Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf

Meatloaf Mixture:

• 2 lbs ground beef – The base of the meatloaf, provides a hearty and juicy texture.

• 1 cup breadcrumbs – Helps bind the meat mixture together and adds a bit of texture.

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds depth of flavor and richness to the meatloaf.

• 1/2 cup milk – Keeps the meatloaf moist and tender.

• 1 large egg – Binds the ingredients and provides structure to the meatloaf.

• 1 tsp garlic powder – For a mild, savory garlic flavor.

• 1 tsp onion powder – Adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the dish.

• 1 tsp salt – Enhances the overall flavor.

• 1/2 tsp black pepper – Adds a little heat and balance to the flavor profile.

Mozzarella Filling:

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – The star of the show, creating a gooey, cheesy center that oozes out when sliced.

Bacon Wrap:

• 8 slices bacon – The bacon serves as the perfect wrapping, crisping up in the oven while adding flavor and texture to the meatloaf.

Topping:

• 1/2 cup barbecue sauce – Adds a sweet and smoky finish to the meatloaf, complementing the savory bacon and cheese.

Instructions for Making Mozzarella Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Before you start mixing the ingredients, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the oven is at the right temperature for baking the meatloaf and will help it cook evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Meat Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, milk, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix the ingredients until everything is well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf dense. The mixture should be moist but still hold its shape.

Step 3: Form the Meatloaf

Once the meat mixture is prepared, divide it in half. Shape half of the meat mixture into a loaf on a baking sheet, creating a rectangular shape that will serve as the base of your meatloaf. This is where the fun part begins—creating the mozzarella-filled center.

Step 4: Add the Mozzarella Cheese

Press a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese into the center of the meatloaf. Make sure to leave a border around the edges so that the cheese doesn’t escape when the meatloaf is baking. The mozzarella will melt as the meatloaf cooks, creating a gooey, delicious center.

Step 5: Seal the Meatloaf

Take the remaining half of the meat mixture and cover the cheese-filled center, pressing it down to seal the cheese inside. This forms a full meatloaf, ensuring the mozzarella stays in place while cooking. Make sure the edges are tightly sealed to prevent any cheese from leaking out during baking.

Step 6: Wrap with Bacon

Now it’s time to wrap the meatloaf in bacon! Lay the 8 slices of bacon over the top of the meatloaf, making sure they’re slightly overlapping. Tuck the edges of the bacon underneath the meatloaf to secure them in place. The bacon will crisp up as the meatloaf bakes, adding both flavor and texture.

Step 7: Brush with Barbecue Sauce

For an extra layer of flavor, brush the top of the meatloaf with barbecue sauce. This gives the meatloaf a sweet, smoky finish that complements the savory bacon and cheese. You can use your favorite barbecue sauce, or try a homemade version for an extra special touch.

Step 8: Bake the Meatloaf

Place the bacon-wrapped, cheese-stuffed meatloaf in the oven and bake for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). The bacon should be crispy and the meatloaf fully cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the meatloaf has reached a safe temperature for eating.

Step 9: Let It Rest

Once the meatloaf is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the meatloaf more moist and flavorful. After resting, slice the meatloaf into thick portions and serve.

Tips for the Best Mozzarella Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf

Use Lean Ground Beef

For a healthier version of Mozzarella Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf, opt for lean ground beef. This will help reduce the overall fat content without sacrificing flavor.

Don’t Overmix the Meat Mixture

It’s important to mix the ingredients just enough to combine them. Overmixing can lead to a tough meatloaf. Gently mix the ingredients for the perfect texture.

Experiment with Cheese

If mozzarella isn’t your favorite, feel free to experiment with other cheeses. Cheddar, provolone, or even a blend of Italian cheeses can add different flavors and textures to your meatloaf.

Let the Bacon Crisp Up

For the crispiest bacon, bake the meatloaf on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. This will allow the fat to drain away from the bacon as it cooks, resulting in a crispy, golden bacon exterior.

Nutritional Information for Mozzarella Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf

Each serving of Mozzarella Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf provides a generous portion of protein, thanks to the ground beef and mozzarella cheese. While the bacon adds a bit of fat, it’s a flavorful addition that enhances the overall taste and texture. Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutritional values per serving (1 slice):

• Calories: 400-450 kcal

• Protein: 30-35 grams

• Fat: 25 grams

• Carbohydrates: 10 grams

• Fiber: 1-2 grams

• Sodium: 900-1000 mg

These values may vary based on ingredient choices, such as the type of cheese or the cut of beef used. For a lighter version, you can reduce the amount of bacon or opt for leaner ground beef.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Million Dollar Steak Potato Casserole

• Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf

• Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Fries

FAQs for Mozzarella Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf

1. Can I use a different type of cheese instead of mozzarella?

Yes, absolutely! While mozzarella is a classic choice for its meltability, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or even a blend of Italian cheeses. Each type will add a unique flavor profile and texture, so feel free to get creative. For a stronger flavor, try sharp cheddar, or for a smoother consistency, go with provolone.

2. How do I ensure the bacon gets crispy on the meatloaf?

To achieve the perfect crispy bacon on your meatloaf, there are a few tricks you can use. First, make sure the bacon slices are laid flat over the meatloaf, with the edges tucked underneath. You can also place the meatloaf on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. This will allow air to circulate around the bacon, helping it cook evenly and get crispy as the fat renders. The key is to bake it at a steady temperature (350°F) to ensure the bacon crisps up without burning.

3. Can I prepare the meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the Mozzarella Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf in advance. Assemble the meatloaf, wrap it in bacon, and brush with barbecue sauce, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge, brush with any extra barbecue sauce, and bake as directed. This method saves time and ensures that your meatloaf is ready to pop in the oven when you’re ready for dinner.

4. What can I serve with Mozzarella Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf?

This meatloaf pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. For a classic comfort meal, serve it with mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans. If you want something lighter, try roasted vegetables or a simple salad with a tangy vinaigrette. For a fun twist, consider pairing it with baked macaroni and cheese or garlic bread. The options are endless, and each side dish will complement the rich, savory flavors of the bacon-wrapped meatloaf.

Conclusion: Why You Should Try Mozzarella Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf

There’s no denying the appeal of Mozzarella Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf. With its gooey mozzarella center, crispy bacon exterior, and savory meatloaf filling, it’s a dish that’s both satisfying and impressive. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting a dinner party, this meatloaf will undoubtedly become a favorite.

The combination of flavors and textures makes each bite a delicious experience, and the recipe itself is simple enough to make any night of the week. With just a few ingredients and a little time, you can create a show-stopping dish that’s both comforting and indulgent. So, the next time you’re craving meatloaf, give this Mozzarella Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf a try—it’s bound to become a new classic in your recipe rotation.

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