This Cheesy Beef Meatloaf takes classic comfort food and gives it a rich, irresistible upgrade. Juicy seasoned ground beef is packed around a generous layer of melted cheese, then baked beneath a sweet and tangy glaze and finished with crispy bacon. The result is a tender, savory meatloaf with a gooey cheesy center and a beautifully caramelized topping.
The secret to this meatloaf is the combination of textures. The beef stays moist and flavorful thanks to finely diced onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, and a touch of Worcestershire sauce, while the cheese melts into the center as it bakes. Every slice reveals a rich ribbon of gooey cheese surrounded by perfectly seasoned beef.
A classic ketchup-brown sugar glaze adds a glossy, tangy-sweet finish that pairs beautifully with the savory meat. The bacon on top becomes crisp and caramelized in the oven, adding smoky flavor and a satisfying crunch against the tender meatloaf underneath.
Serve thick slices with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or buttery green beans for the ultimate comfort-food dinner. It’s hearty, cheesy, family-friendly, and exactly the kind of homemade meal that makes everyone ask for seconds.
Servings: 6–8
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf
- 2 lbs lean ground beef
- 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup whole milk
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1½ tsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp dried oregano
For the Cheese Filling
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
For the Glaze
- ½ cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
For the Bacon Topping
- 6–8 slices bacon
- ½ cup shredded Cheddar cheese
Optional Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Sliced green onions
