Tired of the same old meatloaf? Craving a comforting yet exciting dinner that's surprisingly easy to make? Then prepare yourself for a flavor explosion! This Bacon Mushroom Swiss Cheese Meatloaf recipe elevates the classic dish to new heights with savory bacon, earthy mushrooms, and the creamy melt of Swiss cheese. It's a crowd-pleaser guaranteed to become a family favorite. This recipe offers a quick dinner idea, perfect for busy weeknights, yet sophisticated enough for a weekend gathering. Get ready to experience homemade cooking at its finest!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1/2 lb ground pork
- 1 cup chopped mushrooms
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Ketchup (for topping)
Instructions:
Get Started: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef and ground pork. Add the chopped mushrooms, crumbled bacon, Swiss cheese, bread crumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly but avoid overmixing, as this can result in a tough meatloaf.
Shape and Bake: Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan and shape it into a loaf. Spread a thin layer of ketchup over the top.
Bake to Perfection: Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). A meat thermometer is your best friend here!
Rest and Serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meatloaf. Serve with your favorite sides – mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad all pair beautifully.
Tips for Meatloaf Mastery:
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing the meatloaf mixture will make it tough. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: This is the best way to ensure your meatloaf is cooked through.
- Let it Rest: Allowing the meatloaf to rest before slicing helps retain its moisture and makes for easier slicing.
- Get Creative with Toppings: Experiment with different toppings! Brown sugar and Dijon mustard are delicious alternatives to ketchup.
Variations:
- Spicy Meatloaf: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the meat mixture for a spicy kick.
- Cheesy Delight: Try using a different type of cheese, such as cheddar or provolone.
- Veggie Boost: Add finely chopped bell peppers or zucchini to the meat mixture for extra vegetables.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This Bacon Mushroom Swiss Cheese Meatloaf is a fantastic example of how easy it is to create delicious and healthy meals at home. It's a perfect recipe for anyone looking for easy recipes, quick dinner ideas, or simply a delicious twist on a classic dish. Enjoy!