This bacon-wrapped meatloaf is a tasty twist on a classic dish! The crispy bacon adds a smoky flavor that makes every bite so delicious. Plus, it’s packed with juicy meat and spices!
Who can resist bacon, right? I love serving this with some mashed potatoes and a side of veggies. It’s the perfect comfort food for family dinners or gatherings!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Using 80% lean ground beef gives a great balance of flavor and juiciness. If you want to cut down on fat, leaner beef (like 90% lean) works too, but it may be a bit drier. Ground turkey or chicken are also great alternatives for a lighter version!
Ground Pork or Italian Sausage: This adds moisture and flavor. If you’re avoiding pork, feel free to use more ground beef or ground turkey. Some love using a bit of chorizo for a spicy kick!
Bacon: The star of the show! Regular or thick-cut bacon adds flavor. Turkey bacon is a lighter option, though it may not get as crispy. If you’re vegetarian, consider using veggie bacon or omitting it entirely and draping the loaf with bell pepper strips!
How Do I Shape and Wrap the Meatloaf for Best Results?
Shaping and wrapping the meatloaf is crucial for it to hold together and cook evenly. Here’s how to do it:
- Mix your meatloaf ingredients gently to keep it tender.
- After placing the meat mixture on the baking sheet, use your hands to mold it into a loaf shape, about 2 inches high.
- For wrapping, lay the bacon strips lengthwise over the top. You can tuck the ends under the meatloaf for better coverage. Overlapping adds a nice layer of flavor!
Follow these tips for a delicious and appealing meatloaf that’s sure to impress! Enjoy your cooking!
Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (80% lean)
- 1/2 pound ground pork or Italian sausage
- 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup ketchup, plus extra for glaze
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- 10-12 slices bacon
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious bacon-wrapped meatloaf takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 1 hour of cooking time, plus a little rest time before serving. In total, you’re looking at around 1 hour and 15 minutes for a hearty meal that serves the family well!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This gives your meatloaf the perfect environment to cook evenly. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Meat Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork or sausage, plain breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, and minced garlic. Mix these ingredients together with your hands or a spoon until well combined.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and optional thyme. This mixture adds moisture and flavor to the meatloaf.
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the meat mixture. Gently mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix — you want your meatloaf to stay tender!
5. Shape the Meatloaf:
Shape the meat mixture into a loaf shape and place it carefully on the prepared baking sheet. This will help it cook evenly and nicely.
6. Add the Bacon:
Take your slices of bacon and arrange them over the top of the meatloaf, overlapping them slightly. This not only adds flavor but also helps keep the meatloaf moist!
7. Bake the Meatloaf:
Place your meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes. The bacon will begin to cook and crisp up during this time.
8. Glaze the Meatloaf:
After 45 minutes, remove it from the oven and brush some extra ketchup over the bacon-covered meatloaf for a flavorful glaze. Return the meatloaf to the oven.
9. Finish Baking:
Continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the bacon is crispy. This will ensure everything is cooked perfectly!
10. Let it Rest:
Once it’s done baking, take the meatloaf out of the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This will help the juices settle for better slicing later.
11. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your delicious meatloaf with chopped fresh parsley. Serve warm alongside your favorite sides like mashed potatoes and steamed veggies for a delightful meal!
Enjoy your savory and smoky bacon-wrapped meatloaf! It’s sure to be a favorite around the table!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner option for this recipe. Just make sure it’s a bit fattier than the extra-lean varieties (around 93% is a good choice) to keep your meatloaf moist.
What Can I Substitute for Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have breadcrumbs on hand, you can use crushed crackers, oats, or even cooked rice as a substitute. Just make sure they’re finely crushed if using crackers or oats for a smoother texture.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, use the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through or microwave individual slices.
How Can I Ensure My Meatloaf Doesn’t Fall Apart?
Proper binding is key! Make sure to include eggs and not to overmix the meatloaf mixture. Letting it rest after baking also helps it set up better for slicing, so don’t skip that step!
