Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf: A Recipe for Unforgettable Flavor
This isn't your grandma's meatloaf. We're taking a classic comfort food and elevating it to gourmet status with a crispy bacon blanket. This bacon-wrapped meatloaf recipe is sure to impress your family and friends, becoming a new favorite at your dinner table. Get ready for juicy, flavorful meatloaf with a smoky, salty bacon crust – pure deliciousness!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe is surprisingly simple, using ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. Gather these essentials:
- For the Meatloaf:
- 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1/2 lb ground pork
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- For the Bacon Wrap:
- 12 slices bacon
Step-by-Step Instructions: Making the Perfect Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf
Let's get cooking! Follow these easy steps to create a mouthwatering meatloaf:
1. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:
- In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, ground pork, onion, and garlic. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in a tough meatloaf.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the breadcrumbs, milk, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
- Add the wet ingredients to the meat mixture and combine until just moistened. Again, avoid overmixing.
2. Shape and Wrap the Meatloaf:
- Form the meat mixture into a loaf shape. You can use a loaf pan for easier handling, but it's not strictly necessary.
- Wrap the bacon slices evenly around the meatloaf, overlapping the slices slightly to ensure complete coverage. Secure the bacon with toothpicks if needed.
3. Bake to Perfection:
- Place the bacon-wrapped meatloaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 60-75 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the bacon is crispy. You may need to tent the meatloaf with foil during the last 15-20 minutes of baking to prevent the bacon from burning.
4. Rest and Serve:
- Once cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meatloaf.
Tips for an Even Better Meatloaf:
- Use quality ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the meatloaf. Opt for higher quality ground meats for optimal flavor and texture.
- Don't overmix: Overmixing the meatloaf mixture can result in a tough meatloaf. Gently combine the ingredients until just moistened.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your preference. You can add other herbs and spices, such as thyme, rosemary, or paprika.
- Consider adding vegetables: For a healthier and more flavorful meatloaf, consider adding finely chopped vegetables such as carrots, celery, or bell peppers to the meat mixture.
Serving Suggestions:
This bacon-wrapped meatloaf is delicious on its own, but it pairs perfectly with classic sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad. Enjoy!
This bacon-wrapped meatloaf recipe is sure to be a hit at your next dinner party or family gathering. It's a delicious and impressive dish that's surprisingly easy to make. Give it a try and let us know what you think!
