Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf

Introduction

Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf is the ultimate comfort food—a tender, juicy meatloaf made with a flavorful blend of ground beef, breadcrumbs, and seasonings, then wrapped in smoky, crispy bacon. The bacon doesn’t just add flavor, but also helps lock in moisture, making every slice incredibly rich and satisfying.

This recipe is a family favorite and a true showstopper for gatherings, potlucks, or Sunday dinners. Imagine the savory aroma of bacon mingling with herbs and spices as it bakes—comforting, hearty, and mouthwatering.

Why I Love This Recipe

• The bacon adds a smoky, savory crunch that elevates a classic dish.
• The meatloaf stays moist and juicy inside, never dry.
• It’s a crowd-pleaser and looks beautiful when sliced.
• Easy to customize with your favorite seasonings, fillings, or glazes.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• A classic comfort dish with a gourmet twist.
• Perfect for family dinners, holidays, or when you want to impress guests.
• Affordable ingredients with big flavor payoff.
• Leftovers taste just as good (if not better) the next day.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
• Servings: 6 servings
• Calories: ~420 calories per serving (estimate, varies by bacon and beef type)

Cuisine & Course

• Cuisine: American
• Course: Main Course, Dinner

Ingredients

• 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 for best juiciness)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian seasoned)
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup milk
• ½ cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried thyme (or Italian seasoning)
• 10–12 strips of bacon

Optional for glaze:

• ¼ cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Mix meatloaf ingredients together.
2. Shape into a loaf on a baking sheet or loaf pan.
3. Wrap with bacon slices.
4. Brush with glaze (optional).
5. Bake until fully cooked, bacon crispy, and internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
6. Rest, slice, and serve.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, eggs, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and thyme. Mix gently until just combined (do not overmix).
3. Shape Loaf: Form mixture into a loaf shape on the baking sheet or inside the loaf pan.
4. Wrap with Bacon: Lay bacon strips over the top, tucking the ends underneath the meatloaf. Slightly overlap the strips for full coverage.
5. Prepare Glaze (Optional): Mix ketchup, brown sugar, and vinegar. Brush half of it over the bacon.
6. Bake: Place in oven and bake for 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, until the bacon is crisp and internal temp reads 160°F (71°C).
7. Rest: Let meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing to keep juices inside.
8. Serve: Slice thickly and serve warm.

How to Serve

• Pair with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
• Drizzle with extra glaze or gravy.
• Serve with crusty bread or dinner rolls for a hearty meal.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.
• For extra flavor, mix in shredded cheese, chopped mushrooms, or fresh herbs.
• If you prefer crispier bacon, broil for 2–3 minutes after baking.
• Drain excess fat halfway through baking for cleaner slices.

Variations

• Cheese-Stuffed: Add mozzarella or cheddar cheese in the center.
• BBQ Twist: Replace ketchup with barbecue sauce.
• Turkey Version: Use ground turkey instead of beef for a leaner option.
• Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes, jalapeños, or hot sauce to the mixture.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer (Uncooked): Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
• Freezer (Cooked): Slice and freeze in portions. Reheat in oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Special Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet or loaf pan
• Parchment paper (optional)
• Meat thermometer (highly recommended)

FAQ

Q1: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the meatloaf, wrap it in bacon, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Q2: Can I use different meats?
Absolutely. A mix of beef, pork, and veal works wonderfully.

Q3: How do I keep the meatloaf from falling apart?
Make sure to use enough binder (eggs and breadcrumbs) and allow the loaf to rest before slicing.

Q4: Can I cook it without bacon?
Yes, but the bacon adds flavor and moisture. Without bacon, brush with extra glaze to prevent drying.

Conclusion

Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf is the perfect blend of rustic comfort food and indulgent flavor. The smoky bacon, juicy beef, and savory seasonings come together for a dish that’s hearty, satisfying, and guaranteed to impress. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a holiday centerpiece, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite.