There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of savory goodness wafting through the kitchen, especially when it involves crispy bacon and juicy meatloaf. I discovered this delightful recipe for Bacon Wrapped Mini Meatloaf during a hectic week when I craved a hearty meal but didn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. These bite-sized meatloafs pack all the traditional flavors you love, wrapped in a blanket of crispy bacon that takes them to the next level.
Perfect for a cozy family dinner or an unexpected gathering, this recipe boasts a rich combination of ground beef, aromatic garlic, and a hint of spice from the Worcestershire sauce. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to prepare! In just over an hour, you can serve up six delicious mini meatloafs that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
So, if you’re ready to revive your taste buds and bid farewell to fast food and dull meals, let’s dive into making these irresistible Bacon Wrapped Mini Meatloafs!
Why is Bacon Wrapped Mini Meatloaf a must-try?
Irresistible Flavor: Each bite combines crispy bacon and savory meat, making it a hero at any meal.
Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, guaranteeing happy faces all around.
Easy Preparation: You’ll have this on the table with just 20 minutes of prep, leaving you more time to relax.
Unique Twist: This isn’t your average meatloaf; the bacon wrapping elevates it to a whole new level of deliciousness.
Versatile Meal: Serve them with your choice of sides, from mashed potatoes to a fresh salad, making it customizable for everyone.
Quick Clean-Up: With a foil-lined baking sheet, cleanup becomes a breeze, letting you enjoy your meal without the hassle!
Bacon Wrapped Mini Meatloaf Ingredients
Get ready to savor every bite with these essential components!
For the Meatloaf
- Medium onion – diced for a wonderful flavor base that makes every bite savory.
- Garlic cloves – minced to add aromatic warmth and enhance the overall taste.
- Butter – one tablespoon, used for sautéing the onion and garlic for depth.
- Ground beef – 1 1/2 pounds, the star ingredient for a hearty, meaty texture that forms the core of the Bacon Wrapped Mini Meatloaf.
- Large egg – adds binding properties, keeping your meatloaf together beautifully.
- Bread crumbs – 1 cup, giving the meatloaf a delightful texture and helping to absorb moisture.
- Milk – 1 cup, contributing to the tenderness of the meatloaf.
- Worcestershire sauce – one tablespoon, infusing a rich, umami flavor that elevates your dish.
- Dried thyme – one teaspoon, adding a subtle earthiness that complements the meat.
For the Bacon Wrap
- Bacon slices – 6 slices, bringing a crispy, salty delight that envelopes your mini meatloafs.
For the Topping
- Ketchup – 1/2 cup, providing a sweet and tangy glaze to finish off each meatloaf with flair.
- Brown sugar – one tablespoon, balancing the acidity of the ketchup with a touch of sweetness.
- Spicy brown mustard – one tablespoon, giving the glaze a kick of flavor that awakens the taste buds.
- Fried onion pieces – 1/2 cup, sprinkled on top for an extra crunch and burst of flavor.
With these ingredients, you’re all set to create a delicious Bacon Wrapped Mini Meatloaf that will delight and surprise your family and friends!
How to Make Bacon Wrapped Mini Meatloaf
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Preheat: Begin by preheating your oven or grill to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup later—your future self will thank you!
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Sauté: Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a sauté pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until fragrant and slightly brown, about 3-5 minutes. Then, reduce the heat to low and stir in the minced garlic, cooking for another 2-3 minutes before removing from heat.
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Mix: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, bread crumbs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, and the sautéed onion and garlic mixture. Carefully mix together, avoiding overworking the meat, then divide it into six equal portions and shape into thick patties.
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Wrap: Take a slice of bacon and wrap it completely around the edge of each meat patty, making sure the ends meet or slightly overlap. If necessary, use a toothpick to secure the bacon in place.
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Top: In a separate bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and spicy brown mustard. Spread this flavorful mixture evenly over the tops of each mini meatloaf, and then sprinkle with fried onion pieces for an added crunch.
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Bake: Place the meatloaves on the prepared baking sheet and bake them in the preheated oven or grill until the bacon is golden and crispy, about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Check that an internal thermometer reads 160°F to ensure they’re fully cooked.
Optional: Serve with a side of creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing these Bacon Wrapped Mini Meatloafs ahead of time is a fantastic way to make your weeknights smooth and delicious! You can mix the meatloaf ingredients and shape the patties up to 24 hours in advance; just refrigerate them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. The bacon can also be wrapped around the patties and stored this way, ensuring that when you’re ready to cook, everything is ready to go. When it’s time to enjoy your meal, simply follow the baking instructions directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes if needed. This way, you can enjoy a comforting and flavorful dish with minimal effort, perfect for busy schedules!
Expert Tips for Bacon Wrapped Mini Meatloaf
- Avoid Overmixing: Mix just until combined; overworking meat can lead to a dense texture in your Bacon Wrapped Mini Meatloaf.
- Bacon Overlap: When wrapping the bacon, ensure it overlaps slightly to avoid gaps that could cause moisture loss during baking.
- Flavor Boost: For an extra kick, try adding a splash of hot sauce to the ketchup topping, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- Check Internal Temp: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your mini meatloaf reaches 160°F; this is key for food safety and juicy results.
- Experiment with Seasoning: Feel free to experiment with different herbs or spices based on your taste preferences—thyme can easily be swapped for rosemary or oregano!
- Serve with Style: Pair with fresh vegetables or a salad to balance the richness of the meatloaf, creating a well-rounded meal.
What to Serve with Bacon Wrapped Mini Meatloaf?
Creating a delightful spread to accompany your mini meatloaf elevates the entire dining experience. Let’s explore some wonderful pairings that will bring out the best in this dish!
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These buttery potatoes add a smooth, comforting texture that balances the savory meatloaf beautifully.
- Garlic Roasted Vegetables: Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the veggies, providing a perfect contrast to the rich flavors of the meatloaf.
- Peppery Arugula Salad: With its fresh, peppery bite, this salad gives a vibrant touch, cleansing the palate after each meatloaf bite.
For a comforting finish, consider dessert!
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: These decadent sweet treats are a nostalgic favorite that pairs delightfully with hearty meals.
- Apple Crisp: Warm, fruity, and topped with crunchy oats, apple crisp makes for an irresistible sweet complement to your savory main course.
Don’t forget to add a refreshing drink!
- Sparkling Water with Lemon: Light and bubbly, this drink will cleanse your palate and keep the meal feeling fresh!
- Iced Tea: A classic choice that can be sweetened or flavored with lemon, enhancing the homey feel of the meal while keeping you cool.
Bacon Wrapped Mini Meatloaf Variations
Feel free to get creative and tailor this recipe to your heart’s desire while enjoying the mouthwatering joy of building flavor, texture, and flair!
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Turkey Substitute: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey for a lighter yet still delicious option that keeps the meatloaf moist and tasty.
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular ones to make this dish accessible for those needing a gluten-free diet. The flavor remains consistently delightful.
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Cheesy Delight: Add 1/2 cup of shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella) into the meat mixture for a melty surprise in every bite; it elevates comfort food to gourmet status.
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Heat it Up: Mix in some diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the meat mixture for a spicy kick that will warm your heart and invigorate your palate.
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Herb Infusion: Swap thyme for fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley to introduce vibrant, aromatic flavors that heighten each bite’s freshness; this variation is especially delightful in spring.
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Barbecue Twist: Instead of ketchup, use your favorite barbecue sauce to glaze the tops, giving your meatloaf a smoky sweetness that feels like a summer cookout.
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Veggie Boost: Incorporate finely chopped bell peppers or mushrooms into the meat mixture for extra moisture, nutrition, and a splash of color; it adds a lovely earthy flavor contrast.
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Bacon Lovers’ Paradise: For a truly indulgent experience, double the bacon slices and create a full wrap around each meatloaf for maximum crispiness and flavor. Who could resist that!
How to Store and Freeze Bacon Wrapped Mini Meatloaf
Fridge: Store leftover Bacon Wrapped Mini Meatloaf in airtight containers for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: If you plan to keep them longer, freeze the meatloafs in a single layer; they can last up to 3 months. Make sure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: For the best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through, ensuring the bacon stays crispy.
Thawing: To thaw frozen mini meatloafs, place them in the fridge overnight before reheating for optimal texture and taste.
Bacon Wrapped Mini Meatloaf Recipe FAQs
What type of onion should I use for the Bacon Wrapped Mini Meatloaf?
I recommend using a medium yellow or white onion for the best flavor! They have a natural sweetness that caramelizes beautifully when sautéed, enhancing the overall dish.
How long can I store leftovers in the refrigerator?
Absolutely! You can store leftover Bacon Wrapped Mini Meatloaf in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Just make sure they’re sealed tightly to lock in that delicious flavor!
Can I freeze mini meatloafs for later? If so, how?
Yes, you can! To freeze, make sure the mini meatloafs are cooled completely after baking. Wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, leaving some space for expansion. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge, then bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, ensuring they’re heated through.
What should I do if my meatloaf is falling apart during cooking?
Very good question! If you find your meatloaf crumbling, it might be underbound. Ensure that you’ve included the egg and breadcrumbs to help hold it together. If it continues to give you trouble, consider adding an extra egg as a binder or mixing it until just combined to avoid overworking the meat.
Is this recipe safe for pets or those with food allergies?
When it comes to sharing, it’s important to note that bacon and certain seasonings can be harmful to pets, especially dogs. Always check with your vet before sharing human food. Additionally, if anyone at the table has allergies to beef or gluten, you may want to substitute with turkey or a gluten-free breadcrumb alternative to ensure everyone can enjoy this recipe safely!
Bacon Wrapped Mini Meatloaf: A Flavorful Twist You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven or grill to 350°F and line a baking sheet with foil.
- Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a sauté pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until fragrant and slightly brown, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 2-3 minutes before removing from heat.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, bread crumbs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, and sautéed onion and garlic mixture. Mix together, being careful not to overwork the meat. Divide into six equal portions and shape into patties.
- Wrap a slice of bacon around the edge of each meat patty, securing the ends if necessary.
- In a bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and spicy brown mustard. Spread the mixture over the tops of each meatloaf and sprinkle with fried onion pieces.
- Bake on the prepared baking sheet until the bacon is golden and crispy, about 1 hour and 15 minutes, ensuring an internal temperature of 160°F.