Are you tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a comforting, delicious meal that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying? Then look no further! This Bacon Cheese Meatloaf recipe is your answer. Forget dry, bland meatloaf – this version is bursting with flavor, thanks to the irresistible combination of crispy bacon, melted cheese, and savory herbs. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This recipe is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, transforming simple ingredients into a truly delicious dish. Get ready to experience meatloaf like never before!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1/2 pound ground pork
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Mixture
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, ground pork, bread crumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, thyme, and pepper. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough meatloaf.
Step 2: Incorporate Bacon and Cheese
Stir in half of the crumbled bacon and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Reserve the remaining bacon and cheese for topping.
Step 3: Shape and Bake
Transfer the meat mixture to a loaf pan (approximately 9x5 inches). Shape it into a loaf, ensuring it's evenly distributed. Sprinkle the remaining bacon and cheese over the top.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). You can insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the loaf to check for doneness. If the top starts to brown too quickly, loosely cover it with aluminum foil.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
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. Serve it with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.
Tips for the Best Bacon Cheese Meatloaf:
- Don't overmix: Overmixing the meat mixture can make the meatloaf tough. Gently combine the ingredients until just incorporated.
- Use quality ingredients: The flavor of your meatloaf will be enhanced by using high-quality ground beef and pork.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of herbs and spices to your liking.
- Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf is cooked through to the safe internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
Variations:
- Spicy Meatloaf: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the meat mixture for a spicy kick.
- Different Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or Swiss.
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini to the meat mixture for added nutrients and flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This Bacon Cheese Meatloaf recipe offers a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. It's a quick dinner idea that’s both healthy and flavorful – a true testament to the power of easy recipes and homemade cooking. Enjoy!