Cheesy Bacon Meatloaf – The Ultimate Comfort Food

Introduction

If you’re looking for a hearty, mouthwatering meal that combines all of your favorite flavors, look no further than this Cheesy Bacon Meatloaf. Imagine tender, juicy meatloaf topped with melted cheddar cheese and crispy bacon – this recipe is a twist on the classic meatloaf that will have your family coming back for more! It’s perfect for dinner, and even better as leftovers the next day. Let’s dive into how to make this incredibly flavorful dish.

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 1 lb ground beef (85% lean is ideal)
• 1/2 lb ground pork (optional, for added flavor)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian-style)
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Topping:

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 8-10 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
• 1/4 cup barbecue sauce (optional, for extra flavor)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking pan or line it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork (if using), chopped onion, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Use your hands to gently mix everything together until well combined. Be careful not to overwork the meat mixture, as this can make the meatloaf tough.

Step 3: Shape the Meatloaf

1. Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared baking pan and shape it into a loaf. Smooth the top so that it cooks evenly.

Step 4: Bake the Meatloaf

1. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes or until the meatloaf is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
2. Once the meatloaf is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.

Step 5: Add the Toppings

1. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the meatloaf.
2. Add the crumbled bacon on top of the cheese, pressing it lightly into the cheese.
3. Optionally, drizzle some barbecue sauce over the top for an extra burst of flavor.

Step 6: Final Bake

1. Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the bacon is slightly crispy.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

1. Once done, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing.
2. Serve hot with your favorite side dishes like mashed potatoes, green beans, or a simple salad.

Pro Tips

• If you prefer a leaner meatloaf, you can use all ground beef or substitute with ground turkey.
• Feel free to experiment with other cheese varieties, such as mozzarella or Monterey Jack, for a different flavor profile.
• If you want a crispier top, broil the meatloaf for 2-3 minutes after adding the cheese and bacon.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Bacon Meatloaf is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender meat, gooey cheese, and crispy bacon into one delicious dish. It’s easy to make and guaranteed to impress your family or guests. Whether it’s for a cozy dinner or a weekend feast, this meatloaf is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Call to Action
Tried making this Cheesy Bacon Meatloaf? Share your experience with us in the comments below and let us know how it turned out! For more delicious and easy recipes, check out our blog for more mouthwatering ideas you can easily make at home.