Mozzarella Stuffed Bacon Wrapped (Print Version)
Juicy meat filled with mozzarella, wrapped in bacon and finished with a tangy glaze for a comforting meal.
# Ingredients:
→ Meatloaf Base
01 -
1.5 pounds ground beef
02 -
1 cup plain dry breadcrumbs
03 -
2 large eggs
04 -
0.5 cup whole milk
05 -
1 small onion, finely diced
06 -
2 cloves garlic, minced
07 -
1 teaspoon sweet paprika
08 -
0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
09 -
0.5 teaspoon onion powder
10 -
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
→ Cheese Filling
11 -
1.5 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded or sliced
→ Wrap and Topping
12 -
8 to 10 bacon strips
13 -
0.5 cup ketchup-style sauce
14 -
2 tablespoons brown sugar (optional)
15 -
Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
# Steps:
01 -
Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease a loaf pan lightly.
02 -
In a large mixing bowl, gently blend ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, diced onion, minced garlic, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until just incorporated. Avoid overmixing.
03 -
Press half of the meat mixture into a loaf shape on the prepared pan. Distribute mozzarella cheese evenly down the center, then cover with remaining meat mixture, sealing the edges to encase the cheese fully.
04 -
Lay bacon strips in slightly overlapping rows on a clean surface. Place the meatloaf on top and wrap bacon around it, positioning the ends underneath for security.
05 -
Stir ketchup-style sauce with brown sugar if using. Brush the mixture generously over the bacon-wrapped loaf.
06 -
Bake uncovered for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches at least 160°F and bacon is golden and crisp. For extra browning, broil for an additional 2 to 3 minutes if desired.
07 -
Allow meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve warm.
# Notes:
01 -
Letting the meatloaf rest ensures clean slices and prevents melted cheese from spilling out.