Bacon Cheese Meatloaf
Bacon Cheese Meatloaf: A Comfort Food Marvel
There’s something undeniably comforting about a good meatloaf, especially when it’s loaded with bacon and cheese. This Bacon Cheese Meatloaf isn’t just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavor, perfect for family dinners or cozy weekends. I remember the first time I made this dish—it was met with enthusiastic smiles and happy bellies, making it an instant family favorite. The combination of lean beef, aromatic spices, and crispy bacon creates a mouthwatering experience that people of all ages adore. Let me tell you how you can bring this tasty dish to your table!
Why you’ll love this dish
Making this Bacon Cheese Meatloaf is a fantastic choice for numerous reasons. Firstly, it’s budget-friendly and uses simple yet satisfying ingredients that you may already have in your pantry. If you’re looking for a dish to impress the family or to bring some comfort to a hectic weeknight, this one checks all the boxes. Plus, the air fryer method can shave off cooking time while delivering that desirable bacon crispiness.
"This Bacon Cheese Meatloaf was a hit! Even my picky eater loved it. The layers of flavor and the bacon on top made it feel like comfort food at its best!" – Home Cook, Jamie
Step-by-step overview
Let’s break down how to create this delightful meal. At its core, the dish features a savory blend of spices, tender beef, and a gooey cheese center, all enveloped in a delicious blanket of bacon. You’ll be combining, shaping, air frying (or baking), and glazing for a finishing touch. It might sound like a lot, but trust me—it’s totally worth it. Ready? Let’s gather our ingredients.
What you’ll need
Key ingredients:
- 90% lean ground beef
- Garlic powder
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Paprika
- Dried minced onion
- Worcestershire sauce
- Eggs
- Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
- Ketchup
- Cheddar cheese (optional)
- Bacon
- Ketchup (for glaze)
- Steak sauce
- Brown sugar
Feel free to swap the cheddar for another cheese if you prefer a different flavor profile, or add your favorite herbs to the mix!
Directions to follow
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Prepare the mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef with garlic powder, salt, black pepper, paprika, dried minced onion, Worcestershire sauce, eggs, Italian seasoned breadcrumbs, and ketchup. Gently mix until the ingredients are well blended.
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Shape the meatloaf: Divide the mixture in half. Shape one half into a base layer. If you’re using cheddar cheese, sprinkle it over this base, then cover it with the remaining meat mixture. Form the entire mixture into a three-inch thick loaf.
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Add the bacon: Lay out bacon strips over the loaf, tucking the ends underneath for a neat finish.
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Cook it: Transfer the meatloaf to an air fryer basket lined with nonstick foil. Air fry at 350°F for 40 minutes or bake in an oven at the same temperature for 60 minutes.
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Make the glaze: While it cooks, mix ketchup, steak sauce, and brown sugar for your glaze. After your initial cook time, brush this glaze over the top of the meatloaf.
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Final crisp: Return the meatloaf to the air fryer for another 5-10 minutes, or to the oven for 20-30 minutes, until the bacon is crisp and the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
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Let it rest & serve: Allow the meatloaf to rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve and enjoy!
Best ways to enjoy it
There are so many delightful ways to serve up this Bacon Cheese Meatloaf! Consider pairing it with creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a comforting meal. For a lighter option, serve it with a fresh garden salad or steamed green beans. You can also create a meatloaf sandwich the next day with some crusty bread and your favorite condiments.
Storage and reheating tips
Leftovers? No problem! Allow your Bacon Cheese Meatloaf to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. To reheat, place slices in the oven at 350°F until warmed through or quickly zap them in the microwave. For longer storage, you can freeze the meatloaf for up to three months. Just ensure it’s well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn!
Helpful cooking tips
- Make sure to gently mix the ingredients to keep the meatloaf tender—overmixing can lead to a tough texture.
- Tucking the bacon underneath helps it crisp nicely, while still securing flavor throughout the loaf.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature for safety—a perfectly cooked meatloaf should reach 160°F.
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? Here are a few ideas to put a spin on this classic recipe:
- Try adding diced peppers or jalapeños for an added kick.
- Experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack for a spicy flair or feta for a Mediterranean twist.
- For a sweet and savory kick, consider adding a splash of barbecue sauce to the meat mixture for a unique flavor profile.
Your questions answered
How long will this meatloaf take to prepare?
Prep time is about 20 minutes, with a total cook time of around 40 minutes in the air fryer or 60 minutes in the oven.
Can I substitute ingredients?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, or gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
How do I know if it’s done?
Use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked safely; look for an internal temperature of 160°F.
With these insights and a straightforward recipe, you’re all set to create a fun and tasty meal that’s sure to impress! Enjoy diving into the flavorful world of Bacon Cheese Meatloaf—happy cooking!
Bacon Cheese Meatloaf
Ingredients
Method
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef with garlic powder, salt, black pepper, paprika, dried minced onion, Worcestershire sauce, eggs, Italian seasoned breadcrumbs, and ketchup. Gently mix until the ingredients are well blended.
- Divide the mixture in half. Shape one half into a base layer. If you’re using cheddar cheese, sprinkle it over this base, then cover it with the remaining meat mixture. Form the entire mixture into a three-inch thick loaf.
- Lay out bacon strips over the loaf, tucking the ends underneath for a neat finish.
- Transfer the meatloaf to an air fryer basket lined with nonstick foil. Air fry at 350°F for 40 minutes or bake in an oven at the same temperature for 60 minutes.
- While it cooks, mix ketchup, steak sauce, and brown sugar for your glaze. After your initial cook time, brush this glaze over the top of the meatloaf.
- Return the meatloaf to the air fryer for another 5-10 minutes, or to the oven for 20-30 minutes, until the bacon is crisp and the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
- Allow the meatloaf to rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve and enjoy!
