Cheddar-Stuffed BBQ Meatloaf Recipe

Cheddar-Stuffed BBQ Meatloaf is a delicious twist on the classic meatloaf, featuring a gooey center of melted cheddar cheese and a flavorful barbecue glaze. This hearty dish is perfect for family dinners and is sure to please both kids and adults alike!

Ingredients List

For the Meatloaf:

• 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
• 1/2 cup onion (finely chopped)
• 1/2 cup bell pepper (finely chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for stuffing)

For the BBQ Glaze:

• 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (your choice)
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Timing

Preparing Cheddar-Stuffed BBQ Meatloaf takes about 20 minutes of prep time and 1 hour of baking time.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, bell pepper, minced garlic, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.

Step 3: Shape the Meatloaf

1. Form the Base: On a sheet of parchment paper or a clean surface, shape half of the meat mixture into a rectangle about 1/2 inch thick.
2. Add Cheese: Place the shredded cheddar cheese in the center of the meat rectangle.
3. Seal the Meatloaf: Carefully fold the other half of the meat mixture over the cheese, sealing the edges to enclose the cheese completely. Shape it into a loaf.

Step 4: Prepare the BBQ Glaze

1. Mix Glaze Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the barbecue sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Mix until smooth.

Step 5: Bake the Meatloaf

1. Transfer to Baking Dish: Place the meatloaf in a lightly greased baking dish or on a lined baking sheet.
2. Glaze the Meatloaf: Brush half of the BBQ glaze over the top of the meatloaf.
3. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, brush the remaining glaze over the meatloaf and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).

Step 6: Serve

1. Rest and Slice: Let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with your favorite sides!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional profile of Cheddar-Stuffed BBQ Meatloaf (per serving, based on 8 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	350
Protein	28g
Fat	20g
Carbohydrates	15g
Sugar	6g

Tips for Customization

• Cheese Variations: Substitute cheddar with mozzarella, pepper jack, or your favorite cheese for different flavors.
• Add Vegetables: Incorporate finely grated carrots or zucchini into the meat mixture for added moisture and nutrition.
• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture for extra heat.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Store any leftover Cheddar-Stuffed BBQ Meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just ensure it cools completely before freezing. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Conclusion

Cheddar-Stuffed BBQ Meatloaf is a delightful and satisfying dish that elevates the classic meatloaf with a cheesy surprise. Perfect for family meals or potlucks, this recipe is sure to become a favorite!

FAQs

Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Can I cook this in an Instant Pot?

While this recipe is best suited for baking, you can adapt it for an Instant Pot by using the pressure cooking function, but the texture may differ slightly.

Print