Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Smoked Bacon Triple-Cheese Stack Meatloaf takes a classic comfort dish and elevates it with layers of melty cheese, smoky bacon, and rich, savory flavor. This is not an ordinary meatloaf—it is stacked, stuffed, and wrapped for maximum impact. I first made this when I wanted a centerpiece-style dinner that felt indulgent yet familiar, and it immediately stood out. The smoke from the bacon infuses the meat as it cooks, while the trio of cheeses melts into irresistible layers that keep every slice moist and flavorful. Despite its impressive appearance, the preparation is straightforward and very forgiving. This meatloaf is perfect for weekend dinners, gatherings, or anytime you want a hearty meal that truly satisfies. Served with simple sides, it delivers bold flavor, comforting texture, and a presentation that feels special without being complicated.
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Smoked Bacon Triple-Cheese Stack Meatloaf: Bold, Cheesy, and Deeply Comforting
- Total Time: 90 minutes
- Yield: 8 slices
- Diet: Low Lactose
Description
A bold and hearty meatloaf layered with three kinds of cheese and wrapped in smoky bacon, baked until juicy and irresistibly cheesy.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lb (680 g) ground beef
- 1/2 lb (225 g) ground pork
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded provolone or Swiss cheese
- 10–12 slices smoked bacon
- 1/4 cup ketchup or BBQ sauce (optional glaze)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a loaf pan or baking sheet with foil.
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, eggs, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Mix gently until just combined.
- Press half of the meat mixture into the pan.
- Layer cheddar, mozzarella, and provolone evenly over the meat.
- Top with remaining meat mixture and press gently to seal.
- Wrap the entire loaf with bacon slices, tucking ends underneath.
- Brush with ketchup or BBQ sauce if using.
- Bake for 60–70 minutes until cooked through and bacon is crispy.
- Rest 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Do not overmix meat to keep meatloaf tender.
- Use a meat thermometer for doneness (71°C / 160°F).
- Excellent served with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 70 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Ingredients Breakdown
Ground beef forms the hearty base of the meatloaf. Using beef with a bit of fat ensures juiciness and flavor throughout the loaf.
Breadcrumbs help bind the meat mixture and keep the texture tender rather than dense.
Eggs act as a binder, holding the meatloaf together while maintaining moisture.
Milk softens the breadcrumbs and contributes to a juicy, cohesive texture.
Onion adds sweetness and depth as it cooks into the meat mixture.
Garlic enhances the savory profile and complements both the beef and cheese.
Cheddar cheese brings sharp, bold flavor and melts smoothly into the layers.
Mozzarella cheese adds stretch and creaminess, creating satisfying cheese pulls.
Parmesan cheese provides a salty, nutty note that deepens overall flavor.
Smoked bacon wraps the meatloaf, adding crispness, fat, and smoky richness as it cooks.
Ketchup or barbecue sauce adds moisture and a lightly sweet glaze-like finish.
Salt and black pepper balance and sharpen all the flavors.
Optional seasonings such as smoked paprika or Italian seasoning enhance depth and aroma.
Directions
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Begin by preheating the oven to 180°C and lining a baking tray or loaf pan with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, onion, garlic, salt, black pepper, and optional seasonings. Mix gently until just combined, taking care not to overwork the meat.
Divide the meat mixture into two portions. Press the first portion into a rectangular layer on the prepared surface. Sprinkle a layer of cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan evenly over the meat. Top with the remaining meat mixture and press gently to seal the edges, creating a stacked loaf.
Wrap the entire loaf with strips of smoked bacon, overlapping slightly and tucking the ends underneath.
Transfer the loaf to the oven and bake until cooked through and the bacon is crisp. During the final minutes of baking, brush the top lightly with ketchup or barbecue sauce if desired.
Allow the meatloaf to rest before slicing to keep the layers intact.
Equipment needed
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 6 people. Preparation takes about 20 minutes, baking time is approximately 55 to 65 minutes, and resting time 10 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat slices in the oven or skillet to maintain texture. Avoid microwaving for best results.
Variations and Customizations
This meatloaf is highly adaptable. You can substitute ground turkey or a beef and pork blend for a slightly different flavor profile. I tested a beef and pork combination and found it even juicier and more flavorful.
Cheese choices can be customized easily. Gouda adds smokiness, provolone adds mild creaminess, and pepper jack introduces gentle heat. You can also add sautéed mushrooms or spinach between the layers for extra texture and balance.
For a stronger smoky note, add smoked paprika or a splash of barbecue sauce directly into the meat mixture. If you prefer a crispier finish, broil briefly at the end of cooking while watching closely.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
Smoked Bacon Triple-Cheese Stack Meatloaf is a protein-rich, indulgent dish. Beef and cheese provide protein and calcium, while bacon adds richness. Moderation and balanced sides help keep this meal part of a varied diet.
Expert Tips & Customizations
Gentle Mixing
Overmixing can lead to a dense texture, so combine just until incorporated.
Cheese Layer Control
Keep cheese away from the edges to reduce leakage during baking.
Resting Time
Let the meatloaf rest before slicing to preserve clean layers.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the loaf ahead and bake when ready.
Can I freeze this meatloaf?
Yes, freeze unbaked or baked and cooled for up to two months.
What bacon works best?
Thick-cut smoked bacon provides the best flavor and structure.
Can I use only one type of cheese?
Yes, but using three creates better depth and texture.
How do I know it is fully cooked?
The internal temperature should reach safe doneness and juices should run clear.
Can I cook this on a grill?
Yes, indirect heat works well with careful temperature control.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, the flavors are familiar and comforting.
Can I add sauce on top?
Yes, ketchup or barbecue sauce works well.
Why did my cheese leak out?
The cheese layer may have been too close to the edges.
What sides pair well?
Mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad pair perfectly.
Conclusion
Smoked Bacon Triple-Cheese Stack Meatloaf is a bold, satisfying take on a classic favorite. With smoky bacon, melty cheese layers, and juicy beef, it delivers comfort and flavor in every slice, making it a standout recipe for hearty, memorable meals.
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