Print

Perfect Meatloaf with Crispy Bacon Weave Topping

perfect meatloaf with crispy bacon weave topping - featured image
Print Recipe

A savory and juicy meatloaf topped with a crispy bacon weave, perfect for family dinners and special occasions. This recipe combines simple ingredients with a flavorful glaze for a comforting and impressive meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ pounds ground beef (80/20 preferred)
  • ½ pound ground pork
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned; panko works well)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • ½ cup whole milk (or dairy-free milk)
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
  • 12 slices thick-cut bacon
  • ½ cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with foil. Place a wire rack on top if available.
  2. Prepare the bacon weave by laying 6 slices side by side on a cutting board. Weave 6 more slices perpendicular over and under the first set to create a tight lattice. Chill in the fridge.
  3. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and thyme if using. Mix gently but thoroughly by hand.
  4. Shape the mixture into a loaf approximately 9 x 5 inches on the prepared baking sheet or wire rack. Round the ends slightly.
  5. Optional: Mix ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and smoked paprika in a small bowl. Brush a generous layer over the meatloaf.
  6. Carefully lift the chilled bacon weave and drape it over the meatloaf, tucking edges underneath or around the sides to cover the entire loaf.
  7. Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Halfway through baking (around 35 minutes), brush the meatloaf again with the glaze and adjust the bacon weave if needed.
  8. Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.

Notes

[‘Do not overmix the meat mixture to avoid dense meatloaf.’, ‘Keep the bacon weave chilled before placing on the meatloaf for better shape and crispiness.’, ‘Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).’, ‘Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing for cleaner cuts.’, ‘If bacon crisps too fast, tent foil over the top to prevent burning.’, ‘For extra crispy bacon, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end, watching closely.’, ‘Glaze is optional but recommended for a tangy-sweet crust.’, ‘Substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free panko for gluten-free version.’, ‘Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.’]

Nutrition

Keywords: meatloaf, bacon weave, easy dinner, comfort food, family meal, savory, crispy bacon

Find it online: https://chrisfeasts.com/perfect-meatloaf-with-crispy-bacon-weave-topping-recipe-for-easy-dinner/