CHEESE STUFFED MEATLOAF
This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #NaturallyCheesy #CollectiveBias
Here I am once more to share with you another delicious recipe! This time, it’s a classic American comfort dish: Bacon Wrapped Cheese Stuffed Meatloaf. Because who doesn’t love tasty cheesy recipes?
I know what you’re thinking. I’m the queen of comfort food! 8 out of 10 recipes on this blog belong in the comfort category.
Lately, with the cool weather plus all the shenanigans happening in my life, comfort food is pretty much needed all the time. I get home from torture work, get a plate of whatever leftovers I have that day and then head right into my bed to watch Netflix with my husband. Oooh, the married life… How exciting, right?
But the reality is that I could eat comfort food (and watch Netflix with my husband) every day for the rest of my life!
If you’re American, chances are you either already have a nice meatloaf recipe you use all the time, or you run to the hills at the slightest mention of meatloaf because all you ever had was a dry, bland version of the dish.
If you belong in the second group and somehow still made this far into the post, stop right there. Do not run to the hills! Take my hand. Here ->✋I will walk you through this and, hopefully, convince you that meatloaf is not supposed to be dry and bland. Whatever they did to you in the past, I will fix it! Promise! ? (<- you and me holding hands into the meatloaf wonderland).
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Cheese Stuffed Meatloaf is the ultimate comfort food. It’s juicy, flavorful, and oozes with melted cheese in every bite. Wrapped in crispy bacon, this dish will redefine your idea of meatloaf!
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Loaf pan
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Non-stick cooking spray
- Oven
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup crushed saltines or bread crumbs
- 2 pounds ground meat (beef, sausage, turkey, or a mix)
- 1 egg
- 3 cloves crushed garlic
- 1 small onion, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup ketchup (or BBQ sauce)
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 4 slices Swiss cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded Colby cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- Extra ketchup (or BBQ sauce) for the top
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a loaf pan with non-stick cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, bread crumbs, egg, garlic, onion, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and ketchup. Mix with your hands until everything is just combined.
- Divide the meat mixture in half.
- Place half of the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan, pressing it down evenly.
- Layer the Swiss cheese slices over the meat, followed by the shredded Colby and Monterey Jack cheeses.
- Top with the remaining meat mixture, ensuring you seal the edges to keep the cheese inside.
- Spread additional ketchup (or BBQ sauce) over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake for about 60 minutes or until the meat is fully cooked.
Tips for Success
Be gentle when mixing the meat to avoid a dense texture. Sealing the edges well ensures no cheese escapes during baking. Let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.
Additional Tips or Variations
For a spicy kick, add chopped jalapeños to the cheese layer. You can also try using different cheese combinations to suit your taste.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
This recipe is a good source of protein and calcium, with around 350 calories per serving, depending on the specific ingredients used.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf a day in advance and bake it before serving.
Can I freeze leftovers? Absolutely! Wrap slices in aluminum foil and freeze for up to three months. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Conclusion
This Cheese Stuffed Meatloaf is a delightful twist on a classic dish that promises comfort in every bite. I invite you to give it a try and share your thoughts and any delicious variations you come up with. Enjoy your culinary adventure!
