Description
This Smoked Bacon Triple-Cheese Stack Meatloaf is a decadent twist on a classic comfort food. It combines the savory flavors of smoked bacon with a blend of cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses, creating a rich and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. The meatloaf is moist and flavorful, with a crispy bacon crust and a gooey, cheesy center.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 lb ground pork
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 slices smoked bacon
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
Preparation
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, ketchup, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined, but be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
Step 3: Line a loaf pan with 3 slices of smoked bacon, allowing the ends to hang over the sides of the pan. This will create a bacon “crust” that helps to keep the meatloaf moist and adds a delicious smoky flavor.
Step 4: Press half of the meat mixture into the loaf pan, spreading it evenly.
Step 5: Sprinkle half of the cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses over the meat mixture. This layer of cheese will melt and create a gooey, cheesy center.
Step 6: Press the remaining meat mixture on top of the cheese layer, spreading it evenly.
Step 7: Fold the overhanging bacon slices over the meatloaf, covering the top. This will help to keep the meatloaf moist and add more bacon flavor.
Step 8: Lay the remaining 3 slices of smoked bacon on top of the meatloaf, arranging them evenly.
Step 9: Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour or until cooked through. The internal temperature of the meatloaf should reach 160°F (71°C). If the bacon starts to brown too quickly, you can loosely tent the meatloaf with aluminum foil.
Step 10: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more moist and flavorful meatloaf.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Smoked Bacon Triple-Cheese Stack Meatloaf is a crowd-pleaser for several reasons:
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of smoked bacon and three types of cheese creates a rich, savory, and unforgettable flavor profile.
- Comfort Food Classic: It’s a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a cozy night in.
- Easy to Make: The recipe is straightforward and easy to follow, even for beginner cooks.
- Impressive Presentation: The bacon-wrapped meatloaf looks impressive and makes a great centerpiece for a dinner party.
- Customizable: You can easily customize the recipe to your liking by adding different cheeses, vegetables, or spices.
Serving Suggestions
This Smoked Bacon Triple-Cheese Stack Meatloaf pairs well with a variety of side dishes:
- Mashed potatoes and gravy
- Roasted vegetables (such as broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts)
- Green beans
- Mac and cheese
- Coleslaw
- A simple salad
Tips
- Use good-quality smoked bacon for the best flavor.
- Don’t overmix the meat mixture, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
- Line the loaf pan with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.
- For a spicier meatloaf, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.
- You can also add diced onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the meat mixture for added flavor and texture.
Preparation Time:
- 15 minutes
Cook Time:
- 1 hour
Total Time:
- 1 hour 15 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving)
(Please note that these are estimates and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.)
- Calories: 450-550
- Protein: 30-40g
- Sodium: 800-1000mg
Conclusion
The Smoked Bacon Triple-Cheese Stack Meatloaf is a delicious and impressive dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to make, customizable, and sure to be a hit with family and friends. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy this ultimate comfort food!
Questions and Answers
Q1: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef and pork?
A: Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for the beef and pork, but keep in mind that it will alter the flavor and fat content of the meatloaf. Ground turkey is leaner, so you may want to add a tablespoon of olive oil to the meat mixture to keep it moist.
Q2: Can I freeze the meatloaf?
A: Yes, you can freeze the meatloaf either before or after baking. To freeze before baking, assemble the meatloaf in the loaf pan, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking. To freeze after baking, let the meatloaf cool completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat in the oven or microwave.
Q3: Can I add vegetables to the meatloaf?
A: Absolutely! Diced onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini would all be great additions to the meat mixture. Sauté them lightly before adding them to the mixture to soften them and bring out their flavor.
Q4: What can I use if I don’t have breadcrumbs?
A: You can substitute crushed crackers, rolled oats, or even cooked rice for the breadcrumbs.
Q5: How do I prevent the meatloaf from drying out?
A: There are several things you can do to prevent the meatloaf from drying out:
- Don’t overmix the meat mixture.
- Make sure to include enough moisture in the mixture (milk, ketchup, etc.).
- Line the loaf pan with bacon or parchment paper.
- Don’t overbake the meatloaf.
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
