Cheesy Bacon-Topped Meatloaf

There’s something undeniably nostalgic about a warm, hearty slice of meatloaf fresh out of the oven. This Cheesy Bacon-Topped Meatloaf takes that comfort food favorite and elevates it with a rich layer of melted cheese and crispy bacon. It’s the perfect blend of savory, cheesy, and smoky goodness—all wrapped into one irresistible main dish.

Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, a casual get-together, or prepping meals for the week, this meatloaf is sure to impress. The combination of juicy ground beef, flavorful seasonings, gooey cheese, and crispy bacon creates a comforting yet indulgent meal that everyone will love.

Best of all, it’s easy to make and uses simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. Let’s dive into this cheesy, bacon-topped masterpiece!

🕒 Cooking Time & Serving

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes

• Servings: 6

🧂 Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)

• 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian seasoned)

• 2 large eggs

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• ½ cup milk

• ½ cup ketchup

• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp dried parsley (optional)

For the Topping:

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese blend)

• 6–8 slices of bacon

• ¼ cup barbecue sauce or extra ketchup (optional, for glaze)

👩‍🍳 How to Make Cheesy Bacon-Topped Meatloaf

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet or loaf pan with parchment paper or foil.

2. Mix the Meatloaf Base:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, chopped onion, minced garlic, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.

3. Shape the Meatloaf:
   Transfer the mixture to your prepared pan or form it into a loaf shape on a baking sheet.

4. Add Glaze (Optional):
   Brush the top with a thin layer of barbecue sauce or ketchup for extra flavor.

5. Bake the Meatloaf:
   Place it in the oven and bake for 50 minutes.

6. Add Cheese and Bacon:
   Remove the meatloaf from the oven and sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top. Lay bacon slices over the cheese layer, slightly overlapping them.

7. Finish Baking:
   Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for another 20 minutes, or until the bacon is crisp and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

8. Rest & Serve:
   Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad.

📝 Notes

• You can substitute ground turkey or pork for a lighter or richer flavor.

• Add diced bell peppers or shredded carrots to sneak in some veggies.

• For a spicy kick, mix in a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper.

• Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days or can be frozen for up to 2 months.

❓ FAQs

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

Q: What cheese works best?
Cheddar is classic, but mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack also melt beautifully.

Q: How do I keep my meatloaf from falling apart?
Make sure to use enough binding agents (eggs and breadcrumbs) and let the loaf rest before slicing.

Q: Can I make it without bacon?
Absolutely. Skip the bacon and add extra cheese or a breadcrumb topping instead.

🍽️ Nutrition Information

(Values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients and serving size.)

⚠️ Disclaimer

This recipe is intended for occasional enjoyment as part of a balanced diet. Consume in moderation, especially if you are monitoring cholesterol or sodium intake.
Allergy warning: Contains dairy, eggs, and gluten (breadcrumbs). Always check ingredient labels for allergens or substitute as needed.