Ultimate Cheesy BBQ Bacon Stuffed Meatloaf: Easy Family Recipe

Posted on August 15, 2025

Cheesy BBQ Bacon Meatloaf - featured image

The smell of meatloaf baking in the oven reminds me of cozy family dinners around the table. Honestly, there’s something about a hearty meatloaf that just gives you that warm, fuzzy feeling, especially when it’s loaded with cheesy goodness and smoky bacon! This Ultimate Cheesy BBQ Bacon Stuffed Meatloaf is everything you could want in a comfort food dish—savory, satisfying, and packed with flavor. I first whipped this up for a Sunday family dinner, and it quickly became a favorite. The combination of tangy BBQ sauce, gooey cheese, and crispy bacon takes this classic dish from ordinary to extraordinary!

What I love about this recipe is its versatility. You can serve it with mashed potatoes, a fresh salad, or even on a bun for a killer meatloaf sandwich. Plus, it’s an easy way to sneak in some extra protein for the kids. Let’s face it, whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or foodies, everyone loves a good meatloaf, especially when it’s stuffed with ooey-gooey cheese and wrapped in crispy bacon! Trust me, this is the kind of dish that will have your family asking for seconds and maybe even thirds!

This meatloaf is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Not only is it simple to prepare, but it’s also a crowd-pleaser that can be made ahead of time. If you’re ready to impress your family with a mouthwatering dinner, let’s dive into this Ultimate Cheesy BBQ Bacon Stuffed Meatloaf recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy: This meatloaf comes together in less than an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute meals.
Simple Ingredients: Most of the ingredients are pantry staples or things you probably already have in your fridge, so no fancy grocery trips needed!
Perfect for Family Dinners: Whether it’s a casual weeknight or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table.
Crowd-Pleaser: With cheesy goodness and smoky bacon, it’s a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults alike!
Unbelievably Delicious: The combination of flavors creates a comforting dish that you’ll want to make again and again.

What makes this recipe stand out is the delicious blend of flavors and textures. The cheesy filling is simply irresistible, and the BBQ sauce adds a tangy punch that takes the meatloaf to the next level. Plus, wrapping it in crispy bacon not only enhances the flavor but also keeps the meatloaf moist and tender. This isn’t just any meatloaf; it’s the ultimate comfort food experience!

This recipe is great for meal prep too! You can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer. When you’re ready to eat, just pop it in the oven, and you’ll have a delicious meal waiting for you. Trust me, once you try this Ultimate Cheesy BBQ Bacon Stuffed Meatloaf, you’ll want to keep it in your regular dinner rotation!

Ingredients Needed

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to create a flavorful and satisfying dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Meatloaf:

1 lb (450g) ground beef (80% lean)
1/2 lb (225g) ground pork
1 cup (100g) breadcrumbs
1/2 cup (120ml) milk
1/4 cup (60g) finely chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 large egg
1 tsp (5g) salt
1/2 tsp (2g) black pepper
1 tsp (5g) smoked paprika

For the Filling:

1 cup (100g) shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup (120ml) BBQ sauce (plus more for topping)
6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled

All these ingredients come together to create a meatloaf that’s bursting with flavor. I recommend using high-quality ground beef and fresh ingredients for the best results. If you’re looking to switch things up, feel free to change the cheese type or experiment with different BBQ sauces!

Equipment Needed

To whip up this delicious meatloaf, you’ll need a few basic kitchen tools:

Large mixing bowl
Loaf pan (9×5 inch)
Baking sheet (for catching drips)
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife and cutting board
Mixing spoon or your hands for combining ingredients

If you don’t have a loaf pan, you can shape the meatloaf free-form on a baking sheet, which works just as well! Just be sure to line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Preparation Method

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix until just combined; don’t overmix, or your meatloaf might turn out tough.
Take about half of the meat mixture and press it into the bottom of your loaf pan to form the base. This layer should be about 1 inch thick.
In a separate bowl, mix together the shredded cheddar cheese, BBQ sauce, and crumbled bacon until well combined. Spread this cheesy filling evenly over the meat base.
Take the remaining meat mixture and gently press it on top of the cheese filling, sealing the edges to prevent any leaking.
Top the meatloaf with additional BBQ sauce for extra flavor and moisture.
Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). You can check this with a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Once done, remove from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps keep it juicy!

When you slice into this meatloaf, you’ll see the delicious cheese oozing out. Pair it with your favorite sides, and you’ve got yourself a meal that everyone will love!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Cooking meatloaf might seem straightforward, but here are some tips to ensure it turns out perfectly every time:

Use a mix of ground beef and pork for a richer flavor. The fat content from the pork helps keep the meatloaf moist.
Don’t overmix the meat mixture. You want to combine everything just enough so it holds together without becoming dense.
Letting the meatloaf rest after baking is crucial. This helps the juices redistribute, making each slice tender and flavorful.
Feel free to add your favorite herbs and spices to the meat mixture for added flavor. Fresh parsley, thyme, or even a dash of cayenne pepper can elevate the taste!

One common mistake people make is not checking the internal temperature. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked through but not dry. It should read 160°F (70°C) for safe consumption.

Variations & Adaptations

This Ultimate Cheesy BBQ Bacon Stuffed Meatloaf is already fantastic, but here are some fun variations to switch things up:

Veggie-Packed: Add finely chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to the meat mixture for some extra nutrition.
Spicy Kick: Mix in some diced jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce for a spicy version that packs a punch.
Different Cheeses: Swap out cheddar for pepper jack or even mozzarella for a different flavor profile.

If you’re on a low-carb diet, you can substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds. The possibilities are endless!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This meatloaf is best served warm, right out of the oven. You can slice it and plate it with your favorite sides, like mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad. It also makes for a delicious sandwich the next day!

To store leftovers, let the meatloaf cool completely and then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. It can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, just pop it in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

As the meatloaf sits in the fridge, the flavors may deepen, making it even more delicious the next day!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This Ultimate Cheesy BBQ Bacon Stuffed Meatloaf is not only tasty but also provides a good amount of protein and essential nutrients. Here’s a rough breakdown per serving:

Calories: 350
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fat: 22g

The ground beef and pork provide a hearty dose of protein, while the cheese adds calcium. Plus, if you load it with veggies, you’ll get some extra vitamins and minerals. Just keep in mind the portion sizes if you’re watching your calorie intake!

Conclusion

This Ultimate Cheesy BBQ Bacon Stuffed Meatloaf is a must-try recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite. It’s loaded with flavor, easy to prepare, and perfect for any occasion. I love how you can customize it to fit your family’s tastes, making it a versatile dish that everyone can enjoy.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab those ingredients and whip up this delicious meatloaf tonight! Don’t forget to leave a comment below about your experience, share with your friends, and let me know how you customized your version!

Happy cooking!

FAQs

Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?
You can substitute breadcrumbs with crushed crackers, oats, or even almond flour for a gluten-free option.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should read 160°F (70°C).
Can I freeze leftover meatloaf?
Yes, it freezes well! Just wrap it tightly and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.
What sides go well with meatloaf?
Mashed potatoes, green beans, corn, or a fresh salad are all great choices!

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