Mozzarella Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf

Mozzarella Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf 1 pound ground beef 1/4 pound Italian sausage ground 1 large egg 1/2 cup breadcrumbs 1/2 teaspoon pepper 1 teaspoon onion powder 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning 8-10 slices thin-cut bacon 6-8 ounces mozzarella cheese cubed 1/3 cup barbecue sauce Preheat oven to 350° F. In a large bowl mix ground beef, Italian sausage, egg, breadcrumbs and spices. Line a 9 x 5 inch loaf pan with parchment paper overhanging the sides. Remove the parchment paper and lay flat on counter. Carefully lay the bacon one piece at a time next to each other on the parchment. Shape meat mixture into a long log with ⅔ of the meat mixture and lay on top of the bacon. Make a groove in the middle and add the mozzarella cheese to it. Carefully pick up the parchment paper with the bacon/meat mixture and place it in the loaf pan parchment and all. Cover the top with the remaining meat mixture. Lay 2 pieces of bacon lengthwise over the loaf. Fold the other bacon strips over on top to cover entirely bacon. Spread with ⅓ cup of the barbecue sauce. Bake in the middle of the preheated oven for 40 minutes. Remove from oven and carefully spread out the barbecue sauce. Continue baking for another 20 minutes before turning the heat up to 400° F for the last 5-10 minutes to crisp the bacon. Let sit for about 10 minutes. VERY carefully pick up parchment paper, being cautious to not spill any bacon grease. Place parchment paper/meatloaf on counter or a cutting board and use a paper towel to soak up any excess grease. Move meatloaf to serving platter and slice.