Bang-Bang Melty Bacon Cheddar Stuffed Meatloaf Bombs
Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and exploding with cheesy, smoky, spicy goodness
If comfort food and party food had a delicious baby, it would be these Bang-Bang Melty Bacon Cheddar Stuffed Meatloaf Bombs. They’re bite-sized, flavor-packed, and perfect for everything from game day spreads to weeknight dinners that feel a little extra. Each meatloaf bomb is stuffed with gooey cheddar and smoky bacon, then finished with a sweet-spicy bang-bang sauce that takes things over the top.
Let’s break down what makes these little flavor bombs irresistible—and how to nail them every time.
What Are Meatloaf Bombs?
Think of classic meatloaf, but portable, stuffed, and way more fun. Instead of slicing a loaf, you form individual meatballs, hide delicious fillings inside, and bake them until juicy and golden. The result? A hand-held comfort food explosion with minimal effort and maximum payoff.
Ingredient Breakdown (Why Each One Matters)
Ground Beef (1 lb)
The foundation of the dish. Ground beef provides richness and structure. An 80/20 blend works best—enough fat to stay juicy without becoming greasy.
Bread Crumbs (½ cup)
These act as a binder and help retain moisture, keeping the meat tender instead of dense.
Milk (¼ cup)
Milk hydrates the breadcrumbs, creating a soft panade that prevents the meat from drying out.
Egg (1)
The glue that holds everything together, ensuring your meatloaf bombs keep their shape.
Garlic Powder & Onion Powder (1 tsp each)
These add deep, savory flavor without overpowering the filling.
Salt & Pepper
Essential for bringing out all the flavors in the beef and fillings.
Bacon (4 slices, cooked & crumbled)
Smoky, salty, and crispy—bacon adds texture and a big flavor boost inside each bomb.
Cheddar Cheese (1 cup, shredded)
Melty, sharp, and indulgent. Cheddar balances the spice of the bang-bang sauce perfectly.
Bang-Bang Sauce (½ cup)
A creamy, sweet, and spicy sauce made from mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. It adds heat, sweetness, and richness all at once.
Toothpicks
Optional but helpful if you’re serving these as appetizers or want easy grab-and-go portions.
Step-by-Step Method of Preparation
- Preheat & Prep
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Mix the Meat Base
In a large bowl, combine:
Ground beef
Bread crumbs
Milk
Egg
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Salt and pepper
Mix gently until just combined—overmixing can make the meat tough.
- Form the Bombs
Take a small handful of meat and flatten it in your palm. Add:
A spoonful of crumbled bacon
A pinch of shredded cheddar
Carefully fold the meat around the filling and roll into a smooth ball.
- Bake
Place the meatloaf bombs on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until fully cooked and lightly browned.
- Sauce It Up
Remove from the oven and brush generously with bang-bang sauce. Return to the oven for 5 more minutes so the sauce warms and slightly caramelizes.
- Rest & Serve
Let cool for a few minutes (the cheese inside will be molten!). Serve with extra bang-bang sauce on the side.
Pro Tips for Best Results
Seal the meat well around the filling to prevent cheese leakage.
Use cold cheese for easier stuffing.
For extra crispiness, broil for the last 1–2 minutes—keep an eye on them!
A small cookie scoop helps keep all bombs the same size.
Variations & Customizations
Spicy Lovers: Add diced jalapeños or extra sriracha to the filling.
Different Cheeses: Try pepper jack, mozzarella, or smoked gouda.
Ground Meat Swap: Use ground turkey or chicken (add a bit of oil for moisture).
Air Fryer Method: Cook at 375°F for 12–15 minutes, flipping once.
Serving Suggestions
As an appetizer with toothpicks and dipping sauce
Over mashed potatoes or rice for a full meal
In slider buns for mini meatloaf sandwiches
Alongside a fresh slaw or roasted veggies to balance the richness
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze: Freeze cooked bombs for up to 2 months.
Reheat: Oven at 350°F or air fryer for best texture. Microwave works, but the outside won’t stay crisp.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble them, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
How do I know they’re cooked through?
The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) for beef.
Can I make my own bang-bang sauce?
Absolutely. Mix:
½ cup mayo
¼ cup sweet chili sauce
1–2 tbsp sriracha (to taste)
What if I don’t eat pork?
Skip the bacon or replace it with turkey bacon or sautéed mushrooms for a smoky feel.
Final Thoughts
These Bang-Bang Melty Bacon Cheddar Stuffed Meatloaf Bombs are everything you want in a comfort-food recipe—easy, indulgent, and crowd-pleasing. Whether you’re feeding friends or just treating yourself, one thing’s guaranteed: they won’t last long on the plate.