Easy Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf Recipe

If you’re craving a hearty, comforting dish with a showstopping twist, this Easy Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf will quickly become your new go-to. Imagine juicy, seasoned ground beef packed with sharp cheddar cheese, all wrapped in a crispy, savory bacon weave that locks in every bit of flavor. It’s a simple yet indulgent meal that combines classic meatloaf nostalgia with an irresistible bacon boost, perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing guests without breaking a sweat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this recipe is straightforward but essential, harmonizing to create a meatloaf that’s moist, flavorful, and beautifully textured. The balance of spices, cheese, and bacon not only enhances the taste but also adds layers of mouthwatering color and smell.

• 1 lb bacon (room temperature): Choosing room temperature bacon helps create a flexible bacon weave that cooks evenly and crisps up beautifully.
• 2 lbs ground beef: The main protein providing juicy richness—opt for a 80/20 blend for the perfect fat content.
• 1 cup milk: Adds moisture to keep the meatloaf tender through the baking process.
• 1 egg (beaten): Acts as a binder to hold everything together perfectly.
• 1 small onion (finely diced): Introduces a subtle sweetness and texture contrast.
• 1 tablespoon garlic (minced): Infuses savory depth that wakes up the palate.
• 1 cup bread crumbs: Helps absorb moisture and gives structure without making the meatloaf dense.
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley: Adds a fresh, herby note that brightens the flavors.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground thyme: Offers an earthy aroma complementing the beef.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground paprika: Provides a subtle smoky warmth and vibrant color.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Boosts umami for deeper savory complexity.
• 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded): Melts into the meat mixture for pockets of gooey, cheesy delight.
• 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper (to taste): Adds mild heat & balance without overpowering.
• 1/4 teaspoon Kosher salt: Enhances all the natural flavors perfectly.
• 1/3 cup ketchup: Forms the base of a tangy-sweet glaze that caramelizes on top.
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar: Brings sweetness to complement the smoky bacon.
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar: Adds brightness and cuts through the richness.
• 2 teaspoon mustard: Contributes a subtle bite to the glaze, making each bite exciting.

How to Make Easy Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

The first step to success is getting your oven ready—set it to 350 degrees F. This moderate temperature ensures even cooking, delivering a juicy interior while letting the bacon crisp up gloriously on the outside.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet

Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking. This simple prep keeps your workspace tidy and supports your bacon weave perfectly as you assemble your meatloaf masterpiece.

Step 3: Combine Meatloaf Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix the ground beef, milk, beaten egg, diced onion, minced garlic, bread crumbs, parsley, thyme, paprika, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper with your hands. This tactile method ensures all the spices and ingredients blend evenly, making every bite flavorful without overworking the meat.

Step 4: Add the Cheddar Cheese

Next, fold in the shredded cheddar cheese. This addition is what elevates your meatloaf to a melty, comforting delight, providing pockets of cheesy surprise throughout the loaf.

Step 5: Shape the Meatloaf

Form the meat mixture into a traditional loaf shape, aiming for a length that will match your bacon weave for the next step. A good, firm shape helps it hold together during cooking.

Step 6: Create the Bacon Weave

This is the fun and show-stopping part of the Easy Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf! Lay half of your bacon strips vertically across your foil-lined baking sheet. Then, fold back alternate strips on one side and weave in a horizontal strip of bacon. Continue folding and weaving, alternating strips until you have a solid bacon “blanket” large enough to wrap your entire loaf. This technique creates an even, crispy bacon cover that keeps everything juicy inside.

Step 7: Wrap the Meatloaf in Bacon

Place your meatloaf in the center of the bacon weave, then carefully wrap the bacon around it. Flip the whole thing over so the bacon seams tuck underneath, securing the weave neatly. This bacon “jacket” crisps while the meat roasts, sealing in juicy goodness and adding a smoky flair.

Step 8: Make the Glaze

Whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and mustard until smooth. This tangy-sweet glaze will caramelize on top of your bacon-wrapped meatloaf, creating irresistibly glossy, flavorful crust.

Step 9: Bake and Glaze

Pop your bacon-wrapped creation in the oven and bake for 70 to 90 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the meat’s internal temperature reaches 160 degrees F. Halfway through baking, brush the glaze evenly over the top to create that perfect sticky finish that people rave about.

Step 10: Rest and Serve

Once out of the oven, let the meatloaf rest for 10 to 15 minutes. This step allows juices to redistribute, making slicing easier and the meat thoroughly moist. After resting, slice and enjoy the savory satisfaction of your Easy Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf!

How to Serve Easy Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a few chopped chives adds a bright, fresh touch that cuts through the rich bacon and beef. For a bit of texture and color, serve with pickled red onions or a dollop of sour cream.

Side Dishes

This classic feels perfectly at home alongside creamy mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, or glazed carrots. A simple side salad with a zesty vinaigrette also balances the richness wonderfully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, turn your bacon wrapped meatloaf into sloppy Joe sandwiches, letting those crispy bacon edges peek out invitingly from soft buns. Alternatively, serve it sliced atop buttery garlic toast, drizzled with extra glaze or a smidge of steak sauce for an elevated comfort meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover slices tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the fridge. This keeps the meatloaf moist and preserves the bacon’s flavor for up to 3 days.

Freezing

You can freeze the entire meatloaf, wrapped securely in foil and plastic wrap, for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat slices gently in the microwave or in a 350-degree oven covered with foil to avoid drying out the bacon. Alternatively, pan-fry slices briefly for a revived crispy texture and warm, gooey cheese.

FAQs

Can I use turkey instead of beef for this Easy Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works well and provides a leaner alternative. Just keep in mind that turkey tends to be drier, so you might want to add a bit more moisture like an extra egg or splash of milk to keep it tender.

Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, substitute traditional bread crumbs with gluten-free bread crumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this dish adaptable for gluten sensitivities.

How do I know when my meatloaf is perfectly cooked?

The best way is to use a meat thermometer—the internal temperature should reach 160 degrees F. This ensures the meat is fully cooked while remaining juicy and safe to eat.

Can I add vegetables to the meat mixture?

Definitely! Finely diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or carrots can be folded in for extra nutrients and flavor. Just be mindful not to add too much moisture as it could alter the texture.

Is it necessary to rest the meatloaf before slicing?

Yes! Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the loaf and makes slicing clean and easy without the meat falling apart. It’s a small step that makes a big difference.

Final Thoughts

There’s something wonderfully satisfying about slicing into a warm, perfectly cooked bacon wrapped meatloaf—the crispy edges, melted cheddar, and savory aroma all combine to create a meal that feels like a warm hug. This Easy Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf recipe is approachable, delicious, and guaranteed to make weeknight dinners or special occasions extra memorable. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a favorite you’ll want to make again and again!

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