🧀🥓 Mozzarella Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf

A juicy, cheesy meatloaf wrapped in crispy bacon—perfect for family dinners or meal prep.

🛒 Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 2 lbs (900g) ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)

• 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-style)

• 2 large eggs

• ½ cup milk

• 1 small onion, finely diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tbsp dried)

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)

• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

For the Filling:

• 8 oz (225g) fresh mozzarella (block or thick slices)

For the Wrap & Glaze:

• 10–12 slices bacon

• ½ cup BBQ sauce or ketchup

• 2 tbsp brown sugar

• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional)

🔥 Instructions

1️⃣ Preheat Oven

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

2️⃣ Make the Meat Mixture

In a large bowl, combine:

• Ground beef

• Breadcrumbs

• Eggs

• Milk

• Onion

• Garlic

• Parsley

• Salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, paprika

• Worcestershire sauce

Mix gently until just combined. Do not overmix.

3️⃣ Form & Stuff

• Lay the meat mixture onto parchment paper and flatten into a rectangle (about 10×12 inches).

• Place mozzarella in the center lengthwise.

• Carefully roll the meat around the cheese, sealing the edges well so cheese doesn’t leak.

4️⃣ Wrap with Bacon

• Place bacon slices side by side.

• Lay the meatloaf on top and wrap the bacon around it.

• Tuck ends underneath.

5️⃣ Glaze

Mix BBQ sauce (or ketchup), brown sugar, and mustard. Brush generously over the top.

6️⃣ Bake

Bake uncovered for 60–75 minutes, or until:

• Internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

• Bacon is crispy and caramelized.

Let rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing.

🍽️ Serving Ideas

• Garlic mashed potatoes

• Roasted vegetables

• Buttery green beans

• Fresh garden salad

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

Q1: How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out?

Seal the meat edges tightly and avoid placing cheese too close to the ends. You can also freeze the mozzarella for 15–20 minutes before stuffing.

Q2: Can I use ground turkey instead?

Yes! Use 85–93% lean turkey. Add 1–2 tbsp olive oil to keep it moist.

Q3: Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate covered. Bake when ready.

Q4: How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 325°F for best texture.

Q5: Can I freeze it?

Yes.

• Before baking: Wrap tightly and freeze up to 3 months.

• After baking: Slice and freeze individually for easy meals.

Q6: How do I get extra crispy bacon?

• Place meatloaf on a rack.

• Broil for the last 3–5 minutes (watch carefully).