Mozzarella Stuffed Bacon Wrapped (Print Version)

Tender beef packed with mozzarella and wrapped in crispy bacon for a cozy and crowd-pleasing meal.

# Ingredients:

→ Meat Mixture

01 - 680 grams ground beef
02 - 100 grams dry breadcrumbs
03 - 2 large eggs
04 - 120 milliliters whole milk
05 - 1 small onion, finely diced
06 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
07 - 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
08 - 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
09 - 0.5 teaspoon onion powder
10 - Salt, to taste
11 - Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

→ Filling

12 - 150 grams mozzarella cheese, sliced or shredded

→ Wrap and Glaze

13 - 8 to 10 strips smoked bacon
14 - 120 milliliters ketchup-style sauce
15 - 2 tablespoons brown sugar (optional)
16 - Chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)

# Instructions:

01 - Set oven temperature to 190°C. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.
02 - Combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, onion, garlic, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl. Mix gently until just combined.
03 - Form half of the meat mixture into a loaf shape on the prepared baking sheet or in the pan. Place mozzarella evenly along the center, then cover with the remaining meat mixture, sealing all edges to enclose the cheese.
04 - Arrange bacon strips slightly overlapping on a clean surface. Position the meatloaf on top and wrap the bacon around, tucking ends underneath for a secure fit.
05 - Mix ketchup-style sauce with brown sugar if desired. Brush the glaze generously over the bacon-wrapped loaf.
06 - Place in oven and bake uncovered for 50 to 60 minutes until cooked through and bacon is crispy. Optional: Broil for 2 to 3 minutes at the end for extra caramelization.
07 - Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve warm.

# Notes:

01 - Use chilled mozzarella to help it stay centered; avoid overmixing the meat to maintain tenderness.
02 - If bacon browns rapidly before the center is cooked, loosely tent with aluminum foil.
03 - The internal temperature should reach 71°C for safe consumption.