THE RECIPE JOURNAL · Main Course
Cheese-Loaded Meatloaf
This hearty dish combines juicy ground beef with gooey melted cheese for a comforting meal the whole family will love. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, it’s perfect for a cozy dinner any night of the week.
FROM THE KITCHEN • Cheese-Loaded Meatloaf
01 THE RECIPE
Let's make it.
Follow these steps for a delicious result. Tick off each step as you go.
FROM OUR VIDEO COLLECTION
Tasty Chicken and Onion Combo
Something delicious to watch next.
01
Step 1
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Chop up 4 strips of bacon and cook them in a large skillet over medium heat, stirring often, until they’re nice and crispy—this usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. Set those cooked bits aside.
02
Step 2
In a big bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, garlic, a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce, and some salt and pepper until everything is well combined. Then, lay the meat mixture out on a piece of wax paper, shaping it into a roughly 10-inch square.
03
Step 3
Sprinkle the cheddar cheese and the cooked bacon over the meat, leaving about a half-inch border all around. Carefully lift one edge and roll the meat up like a jelly roll, keeping the filling inside. Place the roll seam-side down into a loaf pan.
04
Step 4
Pop the meatloaf in the oven and bake it for about 30 minutes, until it’s hot and starting to brown. While it’s baking, mix together ketchup, brown sugar, pineapple, and another teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce until the sugar dissolves.
05
Step 5
Take the meatloaf out and lay the remaining 4 bacon strips on top, weaving them together like a little lattice. Spread the pineapple glaze over the bacon and return the loaf to the oven for another 20 minutes or so, until the bacon is crispy and the glaze has thickened. It’s done when the internal temperature hits 160°F (70°C). Let it rest a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Why you’ll love it
This dish combines savory ground meat with gooey melted cheese for a comforting meal. It’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for family dinners. The cheese inside adds a delicious surprise in every bite.
How to serve
Serve with creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. A fresh green salad or steamed green beans also pair well, offering a light contrast to the rich flavors.
Storage & leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven to keep the meatloaf moist. You can also freeze portions for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.
