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Cheddar Stuffed Meatloaf Recipe – Juicy 5 Star Meatloaf Dinner Idea

Cheddar Stuffed Meatloaf Recipe – Juicy 5 Star Meatloaf Dinner Idea

This Cheddar Stuffed Meatloaf is a rich, juicy, and comforting dinner recipe featuring a tender ground beef loaf filled with melted sharp cheddar cheese and topped with a sweet-savory glaze. Every slice delivers a perfect cheese pull, making it a family-favorite 5-star comfort food that transforms a classic meatloaf into something truly indulgent and memorable.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meatloaf
  • 2 lbs ground beef 80/20 recommended
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp dried Italian herbs
For the Cheddar Filling
  • 1 1/2 to 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded or cubed
For the Glaze
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp mustard optional

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Baking sheet or loaf pan
  • Parchment paper (optional)
  • Spatula or spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Small mixing bowl (for glaze)
  • Oven

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, onion, garlic, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, paprika, and herbs. Mix gently until just combined.
  3. Shape half of the mixture into a loaf on parchment paper or baking tray.
  4. Create a center cavity and fill with cheddar cheese.
  5. Cover with remaining meat mixture and seal edges completely.
  6. Mix glaze ingredients in a small bowl until smooth.
  7. Spread half of the glaze over the meatloaf before baking.
  8. Bake for 50–60 minutes until fully cooked (internal temp 70°C / 160°F).
  9. Add remaining glaze halfway through baking.
  10. Let rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

Do not overmix the meat mixture to keep the loaf tender and juicy.
Letting the meatloaf rest is essential for clean slicing and preventing cheese loss.
Sharp cheddar gives the best flavor contrast against the savory beef.
You can prepare the loaf ahead and refrigerate before baking for deeper flavor.
For extra richness, mix mozzarella with cheddar for a stretchier cheese center.