A Juicy Twist on Classic Comfort
This Cheddar-Stuffed Meatloaf with BBQ Glaze takes the classic comfort dish and turns it into something extra special—by hiding a gooey center of melted cheddar cheese and smothering the outside in tangy barbecue sauce.
It’s meatloaf like you’ve never had before: savory, cheesy, sweet, and smoky all in one bite!
Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or impressing guests with your comfort food skills.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- 🧀 Cheesy Surprise Center: Melted cheddar adds a rich, creamy twist inside every slice.
- 🍯 BBQ Glaze Perfection: Adds that sticky-sweet finish we all crave.
- ⏱️ One Loaf, One Pan: No complicated layers or stuffing tubes—just press, layer, and bake.
- 🧑🍳 Classic Meets Bold: Ritz crackers give a crispy texture while enhancing flavor.
- ❄️ Great for Leftovers: Keeps well and reheats like new—ideal for lunchbox meals.
Ingredients (Makes 6–8 servings):
For the Meatloaf:
- 2 lbs lean ground beef (or mix with pork or veal for more depth)
- 2 large eggs , beaten
- ¾ cup crushed Ritz crackers (about 17 crackers – or use breadcrumbs if preferred)
- 1½ cups barbecue sauce , divided (sweet & tangy works best)
- 4 oz cheddar cheese , sliced into thin strips (¼ inch thick for even melting)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat Oven & Prep Dish
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) .
Lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or baking dish to prevent sticking.
Set aside while mixing the meatloaf.
Step 2: Combine the Meatloaf Mixture
In a large bowl:
- Mix ground beef , beaten eggs , crushed Ritz crackers , and ½ cup BBQ sauce until fully combined.
Tip: Use your hands for even mixing—but keep it gentle to avoid over-packing the meat.
Step 3: Shape Half the Mixture
Divide the meat mixture into two equal parts .
Press half of the meatloaf mixture into a log shape in your hands or on a clean surface.
Place the cheddar slices along the length of the log, covering the center.
Step 4: Encase the Cheese
Take the second half of the meat mixture and press it gently around the cheese-filled log.
Shape into a meatloaf form , sealing the edges well to ensure the cheese stays inside during baking.
Step 5: Brush with Barbecue Sauce
Place the shaped meatloaf in the prepared pan.
Brush the remaining 1 cup of barbecue sauce generously over the top.
This creates a caramelized glaze as it bakes—giving that perfect balance of sweet and savory.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden & Juicy
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 45–50 minutes , or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the glaze is bubbling and golden.
Let rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing—this helps retain juices and makes cleaner cuts.
Step 7: Slice & Serve Hot
Cut into thick slices and serve warm.
Each slice reveals a cheesy center wrapped in rich, smoky meatloaf—pure comfort food magic!
Pair with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or mac and cheese for the ultimate comfort plate.
Tips for Success:
- 🧈 Use Cold Hands: Helps shape the meat without sticking.
- 🧀 Cheese Swap Magic: Try pepper jack, mozzarella, or gouda for different flavors.
- 🍞 Cracker Crush Hack: Place crackers in a ziplock bag and crush with a rolling pin for easy prep.
- 🌶️ Spice It Up: Add hot sauce, chili flakes, or smoked paprika to the meatloaf for kick.
- ❄️ Make Ahead Friendly: Assemble and refrigerate overnight—or freeze uncooked meatloaf for future meals.
Serving Suggestions:
- Perfect for Sunday suppers, potlucks, or school lunches.
- Great with cornbread, green beans, or a simple green salad.
- Ideal with a cold drink like lemonade, beer, or sweet tea.
Nutritional Information (per serving, makes 6 servings – approximate):
(With regular cheese and ground beef – per slice)
- Calories: ~400 kcal
- Protein: ~25g
- Carbohydrates: ~15g
- Fat: ~25g
- Fiber: ~0.5g
- Sugar: ~8g
This Cheddar-Stuffed Meatloaf with BBQ Glaze proves that comfort food can still surprise you. With its soft crumb, hidden cheese core, and sweet-savory glaze—it’s a must-bake for anyone who loves bold, juicy meatloaf.
