Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf With Cheese Center Delight

If you’ve ever gathered around a table with family or friends, eagerly awaiting a dish that’s both comforting and indulgent, then you know the magic that happens when you cut into a bacon-wrapped meatloaf with a cheese center. In my cooking journey, I’ve found that the simplest meals often become the most memorable. The first time I made this dish, the gooey cheese center and crispy bacon exterior brought an undeniable joy to everyone’s faces.

Recreating this bacon wrapped meatloaf with cheese center brings back fond memories of kitchen experiments and culinary triumphs. Each step, from mixing ingredients to baking, feels like a dance in the kitchen. The aroma that fills the room as the cheese melts and the bacon crisps is an experience in itself. This recipe has become a staple in my household, not just for its taste, but for the happiness it brings.

As someone who loves sharing recipes that are as delightful to make as they are to eat, I’m excited to walk you through the process of creating this bacon wrapped meatloaf with cheese center. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this dish is all about embracing the joy of cooking. Let’s dive into the fundamentals and discover how this meal can become a cherished part of your culinary repertoire.

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Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf With Cheese Center

Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf With Cheese Center

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  • Author: Chloe
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 6-8 servings
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italienne

Description

Discover the ultimate Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf With Cheese Center recipe! Learn how to create this savory delight with a gooey cheese core that will wow your taste buds.


Ingredients

  • 1 soft roll, cut into small cubes (or 2 slices white bread, without crust)
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) whole milk
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoon (30 ml) s olive oil
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) Kraft Natural Shredded Cheddar Cheese plus 1 1/2 cup (360 ml) s for stuffing
  • 1/3 cup (80 ml) chopped parsley
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) s Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon (5 ml) chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon (5 ml) paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 1/2 lb (680 g) s ground sirloin
  • 1 1/2 lb (680 g) s ground chuck
  • 14 slices of beef bacon
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) ketchup
  • 2 tablespoon (30 ml) s brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoon (10 ml) s apple cider vinegar


Instructions

  1. Combine all the glaze components in a small bowl and set aside.
  2. Set the oven to preheat at 350°F.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, soak the bread cubes in the milk as you prepare the vegetables.
  4. Warm the olive oil in a medium pan, then cook the onion and garlic until they’re tender, around 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper, then let them cool.
  5. After the vegetables have cooled, mix them into the soaked bread along with the Parmesan, one portion of the cheddar, parsley, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, chili powder, and paprika. Stir with a fork until everything is well combined.
  6. Add the ground meats, seasoning with salt and pepper, and combine gently with your hands, being careful not to over-mix to avoid drying out the meatloaf.
  7. Shape two-thirds of the meat blend into a loaf on a broiler pan, about 9×5 inches, using damp hands. Form a hollow in the center and pack it with the rest of the cheddar cheese. Cover with the remaining meat mixture, smoothing the edges to seal the cheese inside.
  8. Apply the glaze over the loaf, then lay the bacon slices over it, slightly overlapping and tucking the ends underneath to stop them from curling.
  9. Place the meatloaf in the oven and cook for 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
  10. Allow it to rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • Thoroughly soak bread cubes in milk for smooth integration and moisture retention
  • Cool onions and garlic before mixing to avoid premature egg cooking
  • Mix meat gently for a light texture and juicy result

Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf With Cheese Center

Fundamentals

The key to a successful bacon wrapped meatloaf with cheese center lies in understanding the balance of flavors and textures. The combination of ground sirloin and ground chuck creates a juicy base, while the blend of cheeses adds a rich, creamy center. The bacon not only provides a savory, crispy exterior but also keeps the meatloaf moist as it cooks.

Using quality ingredients is crucial. Fresh parsley, a good quality Parmesan, and a finely grated Cheddar enhance the overall flavor. The Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard bring depth, while the chili powder and paprika add a subtle kick. It’s these fundamentals that elevate this dish from a simple meatloaf to something truly special.

Preparation/setup

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Soak the bread cubes in milk to ensure your meatloaf remains tender and moist. While the bread is soaking, sauté the onions and garlic in olive oil until tender, which will infuse the meatloaf with a savory aroma. After cooling, combine these with the soaked bread, cheeses, parsley, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and spices.

Gently mix the ground sirloin and chuck with the seasoned bread mixture. Overmixing can result in a dense meatloaf, so handle with care. Shape two-thirds of the mixture into a loaf, create a hollow for the cheese, and then seal it with the remaining meat. This preparation ensures the cheese center stays perfectly in place while baking.

Creating a Flavorful Masterpiece

Technique

Perfecting the technique of making a bacon wrapped meatloaf with cheese center involves careful attention to detail. Cover the formed meatloaf with a sweet and tangy glaze made from ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. This glaze caramelizes in the oven, adding an alluring sheen and a burst of flavor with each bite.

Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf With Cheese Center

Lay the slices of beef bacon over the loaf, overlapping slightly to ensure full coverage. Tuck the ends underneath to prevent curling during baking. The bacon not only enhances the flavor but also creates a delightful contrast of textures between the crispy exterior and the soft, cheesy interior.

Tips/tricks

For an even cook, place the meatloaf on a broiler pan, allowing excess fat to drip away. This prevents the bottom from becoming soggy and ensures a uniformly cooked dish. To achieve the perfect internal temperature of 160°F, use a meat thermometer. Let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a moist and flavorful dish.

Incorporate variations by adding your favorite herbs or spices to the meat mixture. If you enjoy creative comfort food, you’ll definitely want to try these Bacon Cheeseburger Stuffed Tater Tot Cones—a fun twist on classic flavors.

Achieving Perfection

Perfecting results

To achieve perfection with your bacon wrapped meatloaf with cheese center, focus on the cooking process. The right oven temperature and cooking time ensure that the bacon crisps up while the cheese melts beautifully inside. Monitor the meatloaf closely as it nears the end of its cooking time to prevent overcooking.

Experiment with different cheese combinations to find your favorite blend. Mixing Kraft Natural Shredded Cheddar with other cheeses like mozzarella or gouda can add a unique twist to the classic recipe. For more inspiration, take a look at this Bacon Mushroom Swiss Cheese Meatloaf for a delicious variant.

Troubleshooting/variations

If your meatloaf tends to crumble, ensure the bread and milk mixture is thoroughly soaked and well-integrated into the meat. This acts as a binding agent, holding the loaf together. For a spicier version, increase the amount of chili powder or add a dash of hot sauce to the mixture. For more cheesy delights, explore this Cheese Sauce for Broccoli which complements the meatloaf beautifully.

Presenting Your Masterpiece

Serving/presentation

When it’s time to serve your bacon wrapped meatloaf with cheese center, presentation is key. Slice the loaf carefully to reveal the molten cheese center, letting the visual appeal speak for itself. Arrange slices on a platter, adorned with fresh parsley for a pop of color. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple salad.

For a meal that’s both satisfying and visually stunning, consider pairing your meatloaf with these Crispy Cheese and Bacon Potatoes. The combination of textures and flavors will make your meal unforgettable.

Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf With Cheese Center

Pairings/storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, or freeze for longer storage. When reheating, cover the meatloaf with foil to retain moisture. For a classic touch, serve with mashed potatoes or explore this Fully Loaded Classic Chili Cheese Dog Casserole for an all-American feast.

Conclusion

Creating a bacon wrapped meatloaf with cheese center is an adventure in flavor and texture. The combination of savory bacon, juicy meat, and melty cheese offers a delightful culinary experience. This dish not only satisfies hunger but also brings people together, making it perfect for any gathering. As you master this recipe, you’ll find that its versatility allows for endless creativity.

The strengths of this recipe lie in its simplicity and ability to adapt to personal tastes. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a comforting weeknight meal, the bacon wrapped meatloaf with cheese center stands out as a timeless favorite. Explore different variations and pairings to make this dish a staple in your home, and enjoy the joy it brings with every slice.

FAQs – Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf With Cheese Center

Based on our recipe instructions, the total preparation and cooking time for Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf With Cheese Center is approximately 2 hours. This includes 30 minutes for preparation and 1 hour and 30 minutes for baking. Remember to let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
You’ll need the following ingredients: 1 soft roll or 2 slices of white bread, 1/2 cup whole milk, 1 medium onion, 3 cloves of garlic, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese, 1/3 cup chopped parsley, 2 eggs, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon paprika, salt and pepper, 1 1/2 lbs ground beef, 14 slices of beef bacon, 1/4 cup ketchup, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, and 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar.
If you’re looking for a substitute for beef bacon, turkey bacon or chicken bacon are excellent alternatives. Both options provide a similar texture and flavor when cooked, making them suitable for wrapping the meatloaf and achieving that crispy finish.
To prepare the cheese center, shape two-thirds of the meat mixture into a loaf and form a hollow in the center. Fill this hollow with 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Then, cover the cheese with the remaining meat mixture, making sure to smooth the edges to seal the cheese inside, preventing it from leaking during baking.
Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf With Cheese Center pairs well with a variety of sides. You could serve it with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. For a refreshing drink, consider serving it with a glass of apple juice or a citrus blend juice to complement the savory flavors of the meatloaf.
The meatloaf is fully cooked when the internal temperature reaches 160°F. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature by inserting it into the center of the meatloaf. Additionally, the bacon should be crispy and the meatloaf should have a firm texture. Allow it to rest for 10 minutes before slicing to let the juices redistribute.

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