There’s a certain magic in a dish that can transport you back to childhood, don’t you think? I remember the first time I tried to recreate my mom’s meatloaf. Let’s just say, it was less ‘meatloaf’ and more ‘meat-lump’. But through trial and error (and a minor kitchen fire — oops), I’ve perfected this BBQ Bacon Cheddar Meatloaf. It’s a twist on the classic that has become my family’s most requested dinner. It’s the epitome of comfort food, with a smoky flavor that’ll have your taste buds singing.
Now, I’ve got to be honest, the sizzle of bacon wrapping around the meatloaf is music to my ears. My kids always rush to the kitchen when they smell the aromas wafting through the house. “Is it ready yet?” they chant, until I have to shoo them away with promises of “soon”. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into a recipe so cozy, you’ll want to snuggle up with it.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
Now, about those ingredients… I actually forgot the Worcestershire sauce once and had to use soy sauce instead. Surprisingly, it wasn’t half bad! But here’s the classic lineup:
- 1 lb ground beef (85% lean works wonders)
- 1/2 lb ground pork (for that juicy flavor)
- 6 strips of bacon (because bacon makes everything better)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (oh, the glorious melt)
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (pick your favorite, but I’m a sucker for hickory smoked varieties)
- 1/4 cup milk (whole milk, my friends — this is comfort food, after all)
- 2 eggs (they’re like the glue that holds our culinary dreams together)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (I’ve used crushed crackers in a pinch)
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped (trust me on this)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (because garlic is life)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (for that little extra ‘umph’)
Instructions
Here’s where the magic happens. And remember, the first time I made this, I forgot to preheat the oven. Learn from my mistakes!
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a loaf pan with foil for easy cleanup. (You’ll thank me later.)
- In a big bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, cheddar cheese, BBQ sauce, milk, eggs, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Get in there with your hands — it’s messy but necessary.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared pan. Now, lay those bacon strips over the top, tucking the ends underneath the loaf. It should look like a cozy bacon blanket.
- Bake for about 1 hour, or until the bacon is crispy and the loaf is cooked through. A meat thermometer should read 160°F (71°C) when inserted into the center.
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This is crucial. I’ve burned my tongue with impatience before.
Tips & Tricks
Alright, a few nuggets of wisdom from my kitchen to yours:
- Glaze the top with extra BBQ sauce in the last 15 minutes of cooking for a sticky, caramelized topping. (Game changer!)
- Substitute ground turkey if you’re feeling a bit more health-conscious, but remember it won’t be quite as juicy.
- Throwing in a handful of diced jalapeños can really kick it up a notch if you’re into a bit of heat.
FAQ
Got questions? I’ve got answers (and a few extra tidbits).
Q: Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Prepare it, cover it, and pop it in the fridge. Just add 10-15 minutes to the cooking time when you’re ready to bake.
Q: Help! My meatloaf is falling apart. What did I do wrong?
A: Oh, been there! It’s likely you need more binder. Try adding an extra egg or a bit more breadcrumbs next time.
Q: Can I freeze leftover meatloaf?
A: You bet! I slice it up and freeze the slices individually. They reheat like a dream.
As the nights grow longer and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing quite like slicing into a hearty BBQ Bacon Cheddar Meatloaf. It’s more than just dinner; it’s a warm hug on a plate. My mom always said, “The way to anyone’s heart is through their stomach,” and with this recipe, it’s undeniably true. Pass the comfort around your table tonight.
BBQ Bacon Cheddar Meatloaf
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (85% lean)
- 1/2 lb ground pork
- 6 strips of bacon
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Directions:
-
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a loaf pan with foil for easy cleanup.
-
In a big bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, cheddar cheese, BBQ sauce, milk, eggs, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix well with your hands.
-
Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared pan. Lay the bacon strips over the top, tucking the ends underneath the loaf.
-
Bake for about 1 hour, or until the bacon is crispy and the loaf is cooked through. A meat thermometer should read 160°F (71°C) when inserted into the center.
-
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.