This Bacon-Wrapped Herb Meatloaf is a savory twist on a classic comfort dish, wrapped in crispy bacon for an extra layer of flavor. With a blend of fresh herbs and a hint of Worcestershire sauce, this meatloaf is anything but ordinary.
Ground Beef and Ground Pork are the stars of this dish, providing a juicy and flavorful base for the meatloaf. The mix of meats gives a balanced texture and taste.
Breadcrumbs help bind the meatloaf together, keeping it moist and preventing it from falling apart during cooking.
Whole Milk adds richness and moisture, ensuring the meatloaf isn't dry.
Eggs serve as a binding agent, holding the mixture together.
Parsley, Thyme, and Rosemary bring a burst of fresh, earthy flavors that elevate the dish above your average meatloaf.
Garlic and Onion add depth and savory notes, making each bite flavorful.
Worcestershire Sauce introduces a subtle umami flavor that enhances the meatiness of the loaf.
Salt and Black Pepper are essential for seasoning, bringing out all the flavors.
Bacon not only wraps the meatloaf but also infuses it with its smoky goodness as it cooks.
Ketchup provides a tangy, sweet glaze that complements the savory bacon and herbs.
This meatloaf pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables. A side salad with a simple vinaigrette can add a refreshing contrast to the richness of the meatloaf.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This gives you time to prepare the meatloaf while the oven reaches the right temperature.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, and eggs. Add in the chopped parsley, thyme, and rosemary, followed by the minced garlic, finely chopped onion, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together gently until just combined. Overmixing could make the meatloaf dense, so keep it light.
Now, shape the mixture into a loaf. You can do this directly in a baking dish, shaping it with your hands. Once you've got a solid loaf, it's time to wrap it with bacon. Lay the bacon slices over the top, tucking the ends underneath the loaf. This not only keeps the bacon in place but also adds a nice finish.
Spread the ketchup over the top of the bacon-wrapped loaf evenly. This will caramelize as it bakes, adding a lovely glaze.
Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). This ensures the meat is cooked through and safe to eat.
Once done, let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This rest period allows the juices to redistribute, making for a juicier slice.