Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf Recipe

Bacon wrapped meatloaf takes a classic comfort food and gives it a deliciously crispy twist. Imagine a tender, juicy meatloaf encased in crispy bacon, enhanced with a sweet and tangy glaze that makes each bite irresistible. Whether you’re a long-time fan of meatloaf or looking for a fun way to upgrade this classic dish, bacon wrapped meatloaf will quickly become your go-to recipe.

In this article, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about making bacon wrapped meatloaf. From ingredient selection to step-by-step instructions and expert tips, you’ll find everything needed to elevate your meatloaf game. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or when you want to indulge in a comfort food masterpiece.

Why Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf is a Game-Changer

Bacon wrapped meatloaf is already a comforting and filling dish, but wrapping it in crispy bacon elevates it to an entirely new level. The bacon not only adds a savory, smoky flavor but also keeps the meatloaf moist by sealing in the juices as it cooks. The result is a perfect combination of textures – the meatloaf’s tender interior and the bacon’s crispy exterior – that takes this dish from good to unforgettable.

Furthermore, the sweet and tangy glaze made from ketchup and brown sugar complements the rich, salty bacon, making each bite a flavor-packed experience. Whether served with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad, bacon wrapped meatloaf is sure to impress at the dinner table.

Ingredients for Perfect Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf

To create a mouthwatering bacon wrapped meatloaf, it’s essential to choose the right ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of the key components:

1. Meatloaf Mix (Ground Beef, Pork, and Veal)

The classic meatloaf mix, which combines ground beef, pork, and veal, provides the best flavor and texture. The fat content from the pork and veal helps keep the bacon wrapped meatloaf moist, while the beef adds richness. If you prefer, you can use all ground beef for a leaner option, but the combination of meats adds a depth of flavor that really shines.

2. Breadcrumbs (Panko)

Panko breadcrumbs are ideal for bacon wrapped meatloaf because they create a light, fluffy texture. They absorb moisture without becoming too dense, ensuring the meatloaf remains tender. You can substitute with regular breadcrumbs or even crushed crackers if needed.

3. Ketchup and Dijon Mustard

A combination of ketchup and Dijon mustard adds a tangy, sweet flavor to the bacon wrapped meatloaf mix. The ketchup is also used to create the glaze that coats the meatloaf and caramelizes beautifully in the oven.

4. Worcestershire Sauce

This sauce adds umami to the bacon wrapped meatloaf, enhancing the savory depth of flavor. It’s a key ingredient in most meatloaf recipes and helps bring everything together.

5. Bacon

Bacon is, of course, the star of this recipe. The strips are laid over the bacon wrapped meatloaf, enveloping it in a crisp, smoky exterior. The fat from the bacon renders as it cooks, keeping the meatloaf moist and infusing it with delicious flavor.

6. Eggs and Milk

Eggs help bind the ingredients together, while milk adds moisture to prevent the bacon wrapped meatloaf from drying out. Together, these ingredients help create a smooth and tender meatloaf mixture.

7. Fresh Parsley and Onion

Fresh parsley and sautéed onion add brightness and a mild sweetness to the bacon wrapped meatloaf. The onion is sautéed first to mellow its sharpness, allowing it to integrate seamlessly into the meatloaf without overpowering the other flavors.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf

Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, let’s walk through the process of making bacon wrapped meatloaf. This recipe is simple but results in a dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Step 1: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 2 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove the pan from heat and let the mixture cool to room temperature.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the bacon wrapped meatloaf mix, eggs, milk, breadcrumbs, ketchup, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, fresh parsley, and the sautéed onion and garlic mixture. Season with kosher salt and black pepper. Use your hands to mix everything together until well-combined, but don’t overmix. The goal is to ensure all the ingredients are evenly distributed while keeping the texture light.

Step 3: Shape the Meatloaf

On a parchment-lined baking sheet, form the bacon wrapped meatloaf mixture into a loaf shape. The loaf should be about 2-3 inches tall to ensure it cooks evenly. Leave enough space around the meatloaf to allow the bacon to crisp up on all sides.

Step 4: Glaze the Meatloaf

In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining 2 tablespoons of ketchup and 1 tablespoon of brown sugar. Brush this glaze generously over the top and sides of the bacon wrapped meatloaf. The glaze will caramelize as it bakes, creating a sweet and tangy coating.

Step 5: Wrap the Meatloaf in Bacon

Lay the bacon strips over the bacon wrapped meatloaf, slightly overlapping each strip to ensure the entire surface is covered. Be sure to cover the sides and ends of the meatloaf as well. The bacon will cook and crisp up as the meatloaf bakes, infusing the meatloaf with smoky flavor.

Step 6: Bake the Meatloaf

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the bacon wrapped meatloaf in the oven and bake for about 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) when tested with a meat thermometer. Rotate the pan once or twice to ensure even cooking. The bacon should be crisp and browned by the time the meatloaf is done.

Step 7: Rest and Slice

Once the bacon wrapped meatloaf is finished baking, remove it from the oven and tent it with foil. Let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This will allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring the meatloaf remains moist and holds its shape when cut.

Tips for Making the Best Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf

While making bacon wrapped meatloaf is simple, there are a few tips and tricks that can take your dish from good to amazing. Here are some expert suggestions to ensure your bacon wrapped meatloaf turns out perfect every time.

1. Use High-Quality Bacon

The bacon is the star of this dish, so make sure to choose a high-quality option. Thick-cut bacon works best as it crisps up nicely and offers a good balance between fat and meat. Opt for a smoky, flavorful variety to enhance the overall taste of your bacon wrapped meatloaf.

2. Don’t Overmix the Meatloaf

When mixing the ingredients for your bacon wrapped meatloaf, be gentle. Overmixing can cause the meat to become tough and dense. Use your hands to mix the ingredients just until they are incorporated. The goal is to keep the meatloaf tender, so don’t overwork the mixture.

3. Sauté the Onion and Garlic

Sautéing the onion and garlic before adding them to the meatloaf mix is essential. Cooking them first helps mellow their sharpness while infusing the meatloaf with a deeper, richer flavor. This step makes a noticeable difference in the final taste of your bacon wrapped meatloaf.

4. Use a Meat Thermometer

For a perfectly cooked bacon wrapped meatloaf, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked and safe to eat. This is the best way to avoid overcooking or undercooking your meatloaf, ensuring it stays juicy and tender.

5. Rest the Meatloaf After Baking

Let the bacon wrapped meatloaf rest for 10 minutes after baking. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meatloaf, preventing it from falling apart when sliced. It also helps the bacon maintain its crispness.

6. Try Different Meat Blends

While the classic beef, pork, and veal mixture is fantastic, feel free to experiment with different blends. You can try ground turkey, chicken, or even a combination of beef and lamb for unique flavor profiles. Just make sure to adjust the fat content to keep your bacon wrapped meatloaf moist.

Variations to Try with Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf

One of the best things about bacon wrapped meatloaf is how versatile it is. You can easily adapt the recipe to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few ideas to make this dish your own:

1. Cheese-Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf

For an extra indulgent twist, try stuffing your bacon wrapped meatloaf with cheese. Mozzarella, cheddar, or even cream cheese work wonderfully. Simply make a well in the center of the meat mixture before baking and fill it with cheese. As the bacon wrapped meatloaf bakes, the cheese will melt inside, creating a gooey, savory surprise with each slice.

2. Add Vegetables

If you want to sneak more vegetables into your bacon wrapped meatloaf, consider adding finely chopped carrots, zucchini, or spinach to the mixture. These vegetables will add moisture and nutrition without compromising the flavor of the meatloaf. Just make sure to chop them finely so they integrate seamlessly.

3. Spicy Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf

For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños to the meat mixture. The heat from the spices will balance perfectly with the rich bacon and sweet glaze, creating a bold and flavorful bacon wrapped meatloaf.

4. BBQ Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf

Swap the ketchup and brown sugar glaze for a smoky barbecue sauce. Brush the bacon wrapped meatloaf with your favorite BBQ sauce before baking, and the combination of flavors will create a smoky, tangy twist on the classic recipe.

Pairing Suggestions for Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf

While bacon wrapped meatloaf is delicious on its own, it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are a few options to complement your bacon wrapped meatloaf and create a well-rounded meal:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creamy garlic mashed potatoes are a classic side dish for meatloaf. The buttery richness of the mashed potatoes complements the savory, crispy bacon and tender meatloaf, making it a satisfying combination.

2. Roasted Vegetables

Roasted vegetables such as Brussels sprouts, carrots, or sweet potatoes are the perfect accompaniment to bacon wrapped meatloaf. Their natural sweetness and slight caramelization balance out the richness of the meatloaf.

3. Coleslaw

A tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the bacon wrapped meatloaf. The crunch of the cabbage and the zingy dressing adds a nice textural balance and cuts through the fat of the bacon.

4. Sauteed Spinach

For a light and healthy side, sautéed spinach with garlic is a great choice. The spinach is quick to cook and offers a fresh, earthy flavor that pairs well with the smoky bacon and savory meatloaf.

5. Mac and Cheese

If you’re craving extra comfort, serve bacon wrapped meatloaf with mac and cheese. The creamy, cheesy pasta works well with the crispy bacon and adds a comforting, indulgent element to the meal.

Storing and Reheating Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf

If you have leftovers of your bacon wrapped meatloaf, don’t worry – it stores and reheats beautifully. Here’s how to store and reheat your bacon wrapped meatloaf:

Storing Leftovers

Allow the bacon wrapped meatloaf to cool completely before storing. Wrap the meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Reheating

To reheat, place the meatloaf slices in a baking dish and cover with foil. Reheat in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. For a crispier bacon crust, remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of reheating.

Freezing Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf

If you want to make bacon wrapped meatloaf ahead of time, freezing is a great option. Here’s how to freeze and thaw your meatloaf:

Freezing

After baking, allow the bacon wrapped meatloaf to cool completely. Wrap the meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. Store it in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2-3 months.

Thawing and Reheating

To thaw, place the meatloaf in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, reheat as you would the refrigerated leftovers (as mentioned above) for the best texture.’