Cheddar-Stuffed BBQ Glazed Meatloaf Recipe
Meatloaf is one of those timeless comfort foods that brings back memories of family dinners, hearty meals, and warm kitchens. But this recipe takes the traditional dish and makes it even better. Imagine tender ground beef mixed with herbs and spices, stuffed with gooey melted cheddar cheese, and finished with a glossy barbecue glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. That’s what you’ll get with this cheddar-stuffed BBQ glazed meatloaf. It’s juicy, flavorful, and satisfying, with layers of taste and texture that make every bite unforgettable.
This recipe is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even meal prep. It’s easy enough for weeknights but impressive enough to serve guests. The best part? You only need simple pantry ingredients, and the results taste like something you’d order from a restaurant.
In this article, we’ll cover everything: step-by-step instructions, helpful tips to keep your meatloaf moist, variations to try, serving suggestions, and answers to common questions. By the end, you’ll have the ultimate guide to making the best cheddar-stuffed BBQ glazed meatloaf at home.
Why You’ll Love This Meatloaf
- Cheesy center – melty cheddar in the middle makes every slice irresistible.
- Moist and tender – no dry, crumbly meatloaf here.
- Sweet and smoky glaze – barbecue sauce adds richness and bold flavor.
- Family favorite – both kids and adults love it.
- Versatile – works with ground beef, turkey, chicken, or even a blend.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this cheesy BBQ glazed meatloaf:
- 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend for best flavor and juiciness)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (whole milk preferred)
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional but recommended)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional for a little heat)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (reserve some for garnish if desired)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Prepare the meat mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, onion, garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, paprika, oregano, and chili powder. Mix gently with your hands or a spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing, which can make the meatloaf tough.
3. Shape the loaf with cheese filling
Take half of the meat mixture and press it evenly into the bottom of your prepared loaf pan. Create a slight indentation in the center. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese into the indentation, keeping it away from the edges so it doesn’t leak out while baking. Add the remaining meat mixture on top, pressing gently to seal the cheese inside. Smooth the surface with your hands or a spatula.
4. Add the first layer of glaze
Brush about half of the barbecue sauce over the top of the meatloaf. This first layer helps lock in moisture and flavor as it bakes.
5. Bake the meatloaf
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes.
6. Add the final glaze
Remove the meatloaf from the oven and brush the remaining barbecue sauce over the top. Return it to the oven and bake for another 15–20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
7. Rest and serve
Remove from the oven and let the meatloaf rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the cheese from spilling out too quickly. Slice into thick portions and serve warm.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Meatloaf
- Use 80/20 ground beef for the best balance of flavor and moisture.
- Don’t overmix – mix until the ingredients just come together.
- Seal the cheese well – press the edges of the meat firmly so the cheddar stays inside.
- Rest before slicing – this makes it easier to cut and keeps the meatloaf juicy.
- Customize the glaze – mix a little honey or hot sauce into your barbecue sauce for extra flavor.
Variations to Try
- Different cheeses – swap cheddar for mozzarella, pepper jack, or gouda.
- Spicy kick – add jalapeños or chipotle peppers.
- Healthier version – use ground turkey or chicken with low-fat cheese.
- Gluten-free – replace breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or oats.
- Mini loaves – shape into small individual loaves for faster cooking and portion control.
What to Serve with Meatloaf
This cheesy BBQ meatloaf pairs beautifully with classic comfort food sides:
- Creamy mashed potatoes or garlic butter potatoes
- Steamed or roasted vegetables (green beans, carrots, broccoli)
- Dinner rolls or cornbread
- Mac and cheese
- Side salad for balance
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerator – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer – Wrap slices in foil and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat – Warm in the oven at 325°F until heated through, or microwave individual slices for 1–2 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble it up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready.
Q: Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
You can, but freshly shredded cheddar melts better and has more flavor.
Q: How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
Use a meat thermometer. It should read 160°F (71°C) at the thickest part.
Q: Can I make it without a loaf pan?
Yes, you can shape it free-form on a baking sheet. The glaze will still caramelize beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This cheddar-stuffed BBQ glazed meatloaf is comfort food at its finest. The smoky, sweet barbecue glaze balances the rich, cheesy filling, and the tender beef holds everything together in the most delicious way. It’s a dish that never fails to impress, whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends.
Once you try this version, you may never go back to plain meatloaf again. It’s bold, flavorful, and packed with melty cheese in every slice. Pair it with your favorite sides, and you’ve got the ultimate comfort meal.
