Tips
While this recipe is fairly straightforward, there are a few tricks to making sure your meatloaf turns out perfectly every time.
1. Choosing the Right Bacon
For best results, choose thick-cut bacon. Thin bacon can become too crispy and might not wrap around the meatloaf properly. Thick-cut bacon will give you the right amount of crispiness and chewiness, adding the perfect texture to your meatloaf.
2. Use Fresh Mozzarella
When it comes to cheese, fresh mozzarella is the way to go. Pre-shredded mozzarella often has additives that can affect the melt, while fresh mozzarella gives you that perfect gooey cheese pull.
3. Check the Temperature
To ensure the meatloaf is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the meatloaf, avoiding the cheese center, and ensure it reads 160°F (71°C). This guarantees that your meatloaf is safe to eat and perfectly cooked.
4. Let It Rest
After removing the meatloaf from the oven, let it rest for 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and the cheese to set, preventing it from oozing out when you slice into it.
For additional tips on perfecting your meatloaf skills, check out this guide on making the juiciest meatloaf to ensure your next batch is even better!
