Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Dish
Introduction
Imagine sinking your teeth into a mouthwatering slice of meatloaf, enveloped in smoky bacon and bursting with flavor. This bacon-wrapped meatloaf recipe takes the traditional comfort food to a whole new level. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress. In this article, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of creating this delectable dish, share some expert tips, and provide variations and serving suggestions to suit your taste buds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are several reasons why this bacon-wrapped meatloaf recipe will become a favorite in your household:
Firstly, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward instructions, even novice cooks can achieve outstanding results.
Secondly, the combination of ground meat, herbs, and seasonings creates a moist and flavorful meatloaf that will leave you craving for more.
Lastly, the bacon wrapping not only adds a beautiful presentation but also infuses the meatloaf with a smoky and savory essence that elevates its taste to new heights.
Ingredients
For the meatloaf:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 8-10 slices of bacon
For the glaze:
- ½ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your bacon-wrapped meatloaf:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and beaten eggs. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Place the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and shape it into a loaf shape, approximately 9 inches long and 5 inches wide.
- Wrap the bacon slices around the meatloaf, slightly overlapping each slice. Tuck the ends of the bacon underneath the meatloaf to secure them.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce to create the glaze.
- Brush the glaze generously over the bacon-wrapped meatloaf, ensuring it is fully coated.
- Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Once cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
- Serve the bacon-wrapped meatloaf warm, slicing it into thick, juicy portions.
Expert Tips for Success:
To achieve the best results with your bacon-wrapped meatloaf, keep these tips in mind:
– Use a mixture of ground beef and pork for a more flavorful meatloaf.
– Don’t overmix the ingredients, as this can result in a dense and tough texture. Mix until just combined.
– For extra flavor, you can add grated cheese or sautéed mushrooms to the meat mixture.
– Letting the meatloaf rest before slicing allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and moist meatloaf.
Variations and Substitutions
If you’re looking to put your own spin on this bacon-wrapped meatloaf recipe, here are a few variations and substitutions you can try:
– Instead of using ground beef, try a combination of ground turkey and ground pork for a leaner option.
– Experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your taste. Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can add a fragrant touch.
– For a gluten-free meatloaf, replace the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
– If you prefer a touch of sweetness, add a handful of dried cranberries or raisins to the meat mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your bacon-wrapped meatloaf with the following side dish and beverage suggestions to create a well-rounded and satisfying meal:
– Serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a classic and comforting combination.
– For a lighter option, accompany the meatloaf with a mixed green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette.
– A glass of full-bodied red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, complements the rich flavors of the meatloaf.
FAQs
1. Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf up to a day in advance. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to bake. Add the glaze just before baking.
2. Can I freeze the leftovers?
Absolutely! Slice the leftover meatloaf and store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
3. Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can customize the recipe by using ground chicken, turkey, or even a plant-based ground meat substitute for a vegetarian version.
Final Thoughts
Bacon-wrapped meatloaf is a timeless classic with a twist that will leave your taste buds singing with delight. The combination of juicy ground meat, fragrant herbs, and smoky bacon creates a symphony of flavors that is hard to resist. Whether you’re cooking for your loved ones or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. So, why not give it a try and experience the magic of bacon-wrapped meatloaf for yourself? Don’t forget to share your culinary adventures and tag us on social media!
MEATLOAF-Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf
A delicious twist on a classic meatloaf recipe, this bacon-wrapped meatloaf is moist, flavorful, and wrapped in smoky bacon, making it a perfect comfort food dish for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 8-10 slices of bacon
- ½ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Directions
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
-
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and beaten eggs. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
-
Place the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and shape it into a loaf shape, approximately 9 inches long and 5 inches wide.
-
Wrap the bacon slices around the meatloaf, slightly overlapping each slice. Tuck the ends of the bacon underneath the meatloaf to secure them.
-
In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce to create the glaze.
-
Brush the glaze generously over the bacon-wrapped meatloaf, ensuring it is fully coated.
-
Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
-
Once cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
-
Serve the bacon-wrapped meatloaf warm, slicing it into thick, juicy portions.
