Meatballs & Meatloaf

Cheddar And Bacon Meatloaf

Name: Cheddar And Bacon Meatloaf
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 60 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) ground beef; 6 slices of bacon, diced; 1 large onion, diced; 2 cloves of garlic, minced; 1 cup (115g) grated cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup (55g) grated mozzarella cheese; 1 egg; 1/2 cup (60g) breadcrumbs; 1 tsp (5g) salt; 1/2 tsp (2g) black pepper; 1/4 cup (60g) ketchup; 2 tbsp (30g) brown sugar

By Tessa Fairchild · June 19, 2026 · Meatballs & Meatloaf

Prep20 min

Cook40 min

Total60 min

Serves6

I still remember the first time I made a meatloaf for my family. It was a chilly winter evening, and we all gathered around the dinner table, eager to taste the fruits of my labor. The aroma of ground beef, bacon, and cheddar filled the air, and the first bite was like a warm hug on a cold day. From that moment on, meatloaf became a staple in our household, and I've been perfecting my recipe ever since.

There's something special about a well-made meatloaf. It's more than just a dish - it's a comfort food that brings people together. And when you add the richness of cheddar and the smokiness of bacon, you get a flavor combination that's hard to resist. In this recipe, I'll share with you my secrets for making the perfect Cheddar And Bacon Meatloaf, a dish that's sure to become a favorite in your household.

So, what makes this recipe special? For starters, it's incredibly easy to make. You'll need just a few ingredients, most of which are probably already in your pantry. The key is to use high-quality ground beef, fresh bacon, and a blend of cheddar cheeses that will melt beautifully and add a creamy texture to the meatloaf. And don't worry if you're short on time - this recipe can be prepared in under an hour, and it's perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.

Whether you're a meatloaf aficionado or just looking for a new recipe to add to your repertoire, this Cheddar And Bacon Meatloaf is sure to impress. It's a dish that's perfect for any occasion, from a family dinner to a special gathering with friends. So, let's get started and make some unforgettable memories around the dinner table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal preparation time
The combination of cheddar and bacon creates a rich, savory flavor that's sure to please even the pickiest eaters
The meatloaf is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner, as it can be prepared in under an hour and serves a crowd
The recipe is highly customizable, allowing you to add your favorite ingredients or spices to make it your own
The meatloaf is a great make-ahead dish, as it can be refrigerated or frozen for later use
The recipe is budget-friendly, using affordable ingredients that won't break the bank
The meatloaf is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for serving at parties or special gatherings

Why This Recipe Works

The secret to a great meatloaf lies in the balance of flavors and textures. In this recipe, the ground beef provides a solid foundation, while the bacon adds a smoky, savory element that complements the beef perfectly. The cheddar cheese, on the other hand, adds a creamy, melty texture that binds the whole dish together. But what really makes this recipe work is the way the flavors are layered. By cooking the bacon and onions before adding the ground beef, we create a depth of flavor that's hard to achieve with other recipes.

Another important aspect of this recipe is the use of a mixture of cheddar cheeses. By combining sharp and mild cheddar, we get a rich, complex flavor that's both sharp and creamy. And by adding a sprinkle of paprika on top of the meatloaf, we add a smoky, slightly sweet flavor that complements the bacon perfectly. The result is a dish that's both familiar and exciting, comforting and adventurous at the same time.

Finally, the key to a great meatloaf is to not overmix the ingredients. By handling the meat gently and avoiding overmixing, we ensure that the meatloaf stays tender and juicy, rather than dense and dry. This is especially important when working with ground beef, which can quickly become tough and chewy if overworked.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this delicious Cheddar And Bacon Meatloaf, you'll need a few simple ingredients, most of which are probably already in your pantry. The key is to use high-quality ground beef, fresh bacon, and a blend of cheddar cheeses that will melt beautifully and add a creamy texture to the meatloaf. Here's what you'll need:

When shopping for ingredients, be sure to choose the best quality you can find. Look for ground beef that's at least 80% lean, and choose a blend of cheddar cheeses that includes both sharp and mild varieties. Fresh bacon is also essential, as it will add a smoky, savory flavor to the meatloaf. With these simple ingredients, you'll be able to create a dish that's both comforting and delicious.

1 lb (450g) ground beefChoose ground beef that's at least 80% lean to ensure the meatloaf stays juicy and flavorful. You can also use a combination of ground beef and ground pork for added flavor.
6 slices of bacon, dicedFresh bacon is essential for this recipe, as it will add a smoky, savory flavor to the meatloaf. Look for thick-cut bacon for the best results.
1 large onion, dicedChoose a sweet onion, such as Vidalia or Maui, for the best flavor. You can also use a combination of onion and shallots for added depth of flavor.
2 cloves of garlic, mincedFresh garlic is essential for this recipe, as it will add a pungent flavor to the meatloaf. You can also use roasted garlic for added depth of flavor.
1 cup (115g) grated cheddar cheeseChoose a blend of cheddar cheeses that includes both sharp and mild varieties. This will add a rich, complex flavor to the meatloaf.
1/2 cup (55g) grated mozzarella cheeseMozzarella cheese adds a creamy texture to the meatloaf, which complements the cheddar cheese perfectly. You can also use other cheeses, such as Parmesan or Gruyère, for added flavor.
1 eggThe egg helps to bind the ingredients together, creating a cohesive and tender meatloaf. You can also use a flax egg or other egg substitute for a vegan version.
1/2 cup (60g) breadcrumbsBreadcrumbs help to add texture to the meatloaf, which complements the creamy cheese and savory bacon perfectly. You can also use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
1 tsp (5g) saltSalt helps to bring out the flavors of the other ingredients, creating a rich and savory flavor profile. You can also use other seasonings, such as paprika or dried herbs, for added flavor.
1/2 tsp (2g) black pepperBlack pepper adds a subtle kick to the meatloaf, which complements the other ingredients perfectly. You can also use other seasonings, such as cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes, for added heat.
1/4 cup (60g) ketchupKetchup adds a sweet and tangy flavor to the meatloaf, which complements the savory bacon and cheese perfectly. You can also use other condiments, such as barbecue sauce or hot sauce, for added flavor.
2 tbsp (30g) brown sugarBrown sugar adds a rich, caramel-like flavor to the meatloaf, which complements the other ingredients perfectly. You can also use other sweeteners, such as honey or maple syrup, for added flavor.

Ingredients for Cheddar And Bacon Meatloaf

Equipment You’ll Need

Large heavy skillet or Dutch ovenSharp chef's knifeCutting boardMeat thermometerInstant-read thermometerOven-safe meatloaf panAluminum foil

How to Make Cheddar And Bacon Meatloaf

1
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating up, cook the diced bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until it's crispy and golden brown. Remove the bacon from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
2
Add the diced onion to the same skillet and cook until it's translucent and starting to caramelize, stirring occasionally. This should take about 8-10 minutes, or until the onion is soft and fragrant.
3
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning. The garlic should be fragrant and slightly softened, but not burnt.
4
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook the beef until it's no longer pink, stirring occasionally, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to cook the beef to an internal temperature of at least 160°F (71°C) to ensure food safety.
5
Once the beef is cooked, add the cooked bacon, grated cheddar cheese, grated mozzarella cheese, egg, breadcrumbs, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir everything together until just combined, being careful not to overmix the ingredients.
6
Transfer the meat mixture to a meatloaf pan or shape it into a loaf shape on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil. Brush the top of the meatloaf with ketchup and sprinkle with brown sugar.
7
Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of at least 160°F (71°C). You can check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf is cooked to a safe temperature.
8
Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute and the meatloaf to retain its moisture.
9
While the meatloaf is resting, prepare your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables. You can also serve the meatloaf with a side of ketchup or your favorite condiment.
10
Slice the meatloaf into thick slices and serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or thyme if desired. You can also serve the meatloaf with a side of gravy or au jus for added flavor.
11
To check the meatloaf for doneness, insert a meat thermometer into the center of the loaf. The internal temperature should be at least 160°F (71°C) to ensure food safety. You can also check the meatloaf for doneness by cutting into it; the juices should run clear, and the meat should be cooked through.

Expert Tips

To ensure the meatloaf stays juicy and flavorful, don't overmix the ingredients. Stop stirring as soon as everything is just combined.
If you're using a meatloaf pan, make sure to grease it with cooking spray or oil before adding the meat mixture. This will prevent the meatloaf from sticking to the pan.
To add extra flavor to the meatloaf, try adding some diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the skillet with the onion and garlic.
If you're short on time, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before baking.
To make the meatloaf more substantial, try adding some cooked rice or quinoa to the meat mixture. This will add texture and nutrients to the dish.
To make the meatloaf more indulgent, try wrapping it in bacon slices before baking. This will add a smoky, savory flavor to the dish.
To make the meatloaf ahead of time, prepare the meat mixture and shape it into a loaf. Wrap the meatloaf in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw frozen meatloaf overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overmixing the ingredients, which can make the meatloaf dense and dry
Not cooking the bacon until it's crispy, which can make the meatloaf lack flavor
Not letting the meatloaf rest before slicing, which can make it lose its juices and become dry
Not checking the internal temperature of the meatloaf, which can make it undercooked or overcooked
Not using high-quality ingredients, such as fresh bacon and sharp cheddar cheese, which can make the meatloaf lack flavor
Not greasing the meatloaf pan, which can make the meatloaf stick to the pan

Variations and Substitutions

Try adding some diced ham or cooked sausage to the meat mixture for added flavor
Use different types of cheese, such as Parmesan or Gruyère, for a unique flavor profile
Add some chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, to the meat mixture for added flavor
Use a combination of ground beef and ground pork for a more complex flavor profile
Try adding some diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the skillet with the onion and garlic for added flavor
Use a mixture of ketchup and barbecue sauce for a sweeter, tangier flavor
Add some chopped bacon or cooked sausage to the top of the meatloaf before baking for added flavor

What to Serve With Cheddar And Bacon Meatloaf

This Cheddar And Bacon Meatloaf is perfect for serving with a variety of sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad. You can also serve it with a side of ketchup or your favorite condiment. For a more substantial meal, try serving the meatloaf with a side of mac and cheese or a hearty stew.

Some other ideas for serving the meatloaf include:

Serve with mashed potatoes and roasted vegetablesServe with a side salad and a drizzle of your favorite dressingServe with mac and cheese and a side of garlic breadServe with a hearty stew and a side of crusty bread

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

This Cheddar And Bacon Meatloaf can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To refrigerate, wrap the meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator at 40°F (4°C) or below. To freeze, wrap the meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the freezer at 0°F (-18°C) or below.

To reheat the meatloaf, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Wrap the meatloaf in aluminum foil and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of at least 160°F (71°C). You can also reheat the meatloaf in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook it.

Some tips for storing and reheating the meatloaf include:

Always store the meatloaf in a covered container to prevent drying out. You can also store the meatloaf in a zip-top bag or airtight container to prevent freezer burn.

When reheating the meatloaf, make sure to check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches a safe temperature. You can also use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of ground beef should I use for this recipe?

For this recipe, you should use ground beef that's at least 80% lean. This will ensure the meatloaf stays juicy and flavorful. You can also use a combination of ground beef and ground pork for added flavor.

Can I use different types of cheese for this recipe?

Yes, you can use different types of cheese for this recipe. Some options include Parmesan, Gruyère, or a combination of cheddar and mozzarella. Just be sure to choose a cheese that melts well and has a rich, creamy flavor.

How do I know when the meatloaf is done?

To check if the meatloaf is done, insert a meat thermometer into the center of the loaf. The internal temperature should be at least 160°F (71°C) to ensure food safety. You can also check the meatloaf for doneness by cutting into it; the juices should run clear, and the meat should be cooked through.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time. Prepare the meat mixture and shape it into a loaf. Wrap the meatloaf in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw frozen meatloaf overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

How do I store the meatloaf after it's been cooked?

To store the meatloaf after it's been cooked, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator at 40°F (4°C) or below for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the meatloaf for up to 3 months. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of at least 160°F (71°C).

Can I use a different type of pan for this recipe?

Yes, you can use a different type of pan for this recipe. A meatloaf pan or a 9x5-inch loaf pan works well, but you can also use a regular baking sheet lined with aluminum foil. Just be sure to grease the pan with cooking spray or oil to prevent the meatloaf from sticking.

How do I prevent the meatloaf from drying out?

To prevent the meatloaf from drying out, make sure to not overmix the ingredients and don't overbake the meatloaf. You can also cover the meatloaf with aluminum foil during baking to prevent it from drying out. Additionally, you can add some extra moisture to the meatloaf by adding some chopped onions or bell peppers to the meat mixture.

Can I use this recipe for a special diet?

Yes, you can use this recipe for a special diet. This recipe is gluten-free, and you can also make it low-carb by using a sugar-free ketchup and reducing the amount of breadcrumbs. Additionally, you can make it dairy-free by using a non-dairy cheese substitute.

How do I serve the meatloaf?

You can serve the meatloaf with a variety of sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad. You can also serve it with a side of ketchup or your favorite condiment. For a more substantial meal, try serving the meatloaf with a side of mac and cheese or a hearty stew.

The Full Recipe

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