🥓🧀 Cheesy Bacon-Topped Meatloaf

Description

This isn’t your grandma’s meatloaf—it’s an indulgent, over-the-top version loaded with flavor! A juicy ground beef base is baked to perfection, smothered in melted cheddar cheese, and topped with crispy bacon. The gooey cheese drips down the sides while the smoky bacon adds crunch and richness. It’s hearty, comforting, and guaranteed to make everyone at the table say WOW!

📝 Ingredients

• 2 lbs (900 g) ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers)
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• ½ cup milk
• 2 tbsp ketchup (plus more for topping if desired)
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 8–10 strips crispy cooked bacon, chopped

🍳 Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: 375°F (190°C).
2. Make the Meatloaf Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, eggs, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix until just combined (don’t overmix).
3. Shape & Bake: Transfer mixture to a greased loaf pan or shape into a loaf on a baking sheet. Bake for 45 minutes.
4. Add Cheese: Remove from oven, cover with shredded cheddar, and bake another 10–15 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Top with Bacon: Sprinkle chopped crispy bacon on top.
6. Rest & Serve: Let rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing so juices settle.

🥗 Servings

• Makes 6–8 servings

📌 Notes

• You can swap cheddar for mozzarella, Colby Jack, or pepper jack for a spicy kick.
• Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• For extra smokiness, use BBQ sauce instead of ketchup.
• If you like a crustier top, broil for 2–3 minutes after adding cheese.

💡 Tips

• Don’t pack the meat mixture too tightly—this keeps it tender.
• For juicier meatloaf, mix in ¼ cup grated zucchini or carrots.
• Cook bacon separately before topping so it stays crispy instead of soggy.
• Let meatloaf rest before slicing, or it may fall apart.

🔢 Nutritional Info (per serving, approx. based on 8 servings)

• Calories: ~520 kcal
• Protein: 32 g
• Fat: 36 g
• Carbs: 14 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Sodium: ~780 mg

🌟 Benefits

• High protein meal for satiety and muscle support.
• Comfort food classic with a modern, indulgent twist.
• Family-friendly — kids love the cheese and bacon combo.
• Meal prep friendly — leftovers taste amazing in sandwiches or wraps.

❓ Q & A

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! Assemble the meatloaf, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Q: Can I freeze it?
A: Absolutely! Freeze baked meatloaf (without cheese/bacon topping). Reheat, then add cheese and bacon fresh.

Q: What can I serve with this?
A: Mashed potatoes, green beans, roasted veggies, or a crisp salad.

Q: Can I use different meats?
A: Yes—try a beef/pork mix, or substitute with ground turkey for leaner meat.

Q: How do I make it less greasy?
A: Use leaner ground beef (90/10) and drain excess fat halfway through baking.