Skip to content
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix just until combined.
- Divide the meat mixture into 6 equal portions and flatten each into a thick patty.
- Place a generous amount of shredded cheddar in the center of each patty.
- Wrap the meat around the cheese, sealing completely to form a tight ball.
- Wrap each meatloaf bomb with one slice of bacon, tucking the ends underneath.
- Place seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- In a small bowl, whisk together all bang-bang glaze ingredients. Brush generously over each bomb.
- Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, until cooked through and bacon is caramelized.
- Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end for extra color and sticky glaze.
- Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Variations
- Use pepper jack or smoked cheddar for a different cheese profile.
- Add chopped jalapeños to the cheese center for extra heat.
- Swap BBQ sauce for ketchup-based glaze for a more classic meatloaf flavor.
Tips
- Do not overmix the meat, or the bombs can become dense.
- Seal the cheese completely to prevent leaks during baking.
- Resting is essential—this keeps the cheese molten inside instead of running out immediately.
- For crispier bacon, place the bombs on a rack set over the baking sheet.