Looking for a juicy bacon meatloaf that does not use tomato sauce? You’ve found it! Whether you simply do not care for tomato sauce or, like me, avoid it because of tummy issues, this cozy recipe has you covered. Savory gravy adds moisture and flavor while strips of bacon cook on top, giving every slice a smoky finish and crisp edges. It is the kind of dependable comfort food that works just as well for a relaxed Sunday supper as it does for a make-ahead weeknight meal.
Do you cover meatloaf when baking?
Covering meatloaf can help prevent it from drying out, but this recipe takes a different route. The gravy mixture adds enough moisture for the loaf to bake uncovered, which also gives the bacon a chance to crisp. If the top begins browning faster than you like, loosely cover it with foil, then remove the foil during the final 10 to 15 minutes.
How do you keep meatloaf moist?
Use enough liquid and avoid overmixing or overbaking. Eggs, gravy, ketchup, barbecue sauce, mustard, or another flavorful liquid can provide moisture, depending on the recipe. Mix only until the ingredients are combined. If you prefer to bake the loaf covered, uncover it for the final 10 to 15 minutes so the top can brown.
At what temperature is the meatloaf done?
The safest way to know is to check the center with a meat thermometer. The original recipe targets an internal temperature of 165°F. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part without touching the pan, then let the meatloaf rest before slicing so the juices can settle.
Why is my meatloaf falling apart?
A meatloaf usually crumbles when it does not have enough binder, when the ingredients are not evenly combined, or when it is sliced before it has rested. Eggs and bread crumbs—or crushed crackers—help everything hold together. Shape the mixture firmly, but do not compress it so tightly that the finished loaf becomes dense. After baking, give it a short rest before cutting clean slices with a sharp knife.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Bacon Meatloaf
- Keep everything cold. Cold meat and bacon are easier to handle, and the fat stays in the mixture instead of melting on your hands.
- Mix gently. Use clean hands or a fork and stop as soon as the ingredients are evenly combined. Too much mixing can make meatloaf firm or rubbery.
- Test the seasoning. If you want to check the flavor before shaping the loaf, cook a teaspoon-size portion in a skillet and taste it. Adjust the seasoning in the remaining mixture if needed.
- Shape evenly. A loaf with a level top and consistent thickness cooks more evenly than one with very thick and thin areas.
- Leave room for the bacon to crisp. Arrange the strips in a single layer with only a little overlap. Thick overlaps may stay soft underneath.
- Use a thermometer. Time is only a guide because ovens and loaf shapes vary. Temperature gives you a more reliable result.
- Rest before slicing. A brief rest makes the loaf easier to cut and helps keep the juices in each slice.
For easier cleanup, place the loaf pan on a rimmed baking sheet before it goes into the oven. If you prefer more browned edges, shape the mixture into a free-form loaf on a lined rimmed pan instead of packing it into a loaf pan. Either way, avoid pouring off hot drippings until the pan is cool enough to handle safely.
Fun Meatloaf Facts
- Loaves made from chopped or ground meat appear in many food traditions, so meatloaf has plenty of relatives around the world.
- American meatloaf became especially popular as an economical, filling family meal that could stretch meat with bread crumbs, crackers, grains, or vegetables.
- Bacon does double duty on top: it contributes smoky flavor while its rendered fat helps protect the surface of the loaf.
- Leftover meatloaf is often even easier to slice after chilling, which is why it is a favorite filling for next-day sandwiches.
You could try the cute little Meatloaf Cups as well. These are the cutest little things, topped with mashed potatoes. Get your meal all in one bite.
Serving Suggestions
For a classic comfort-food plate, serve thick slices with mashed potatoes, extra gravy, lima beans, and corn. The creamy potatoes catch every drop of gravy, while simple vegetables balance the richness of the bacon-topped loaf.
For something a little lighter, add a crisp green salad, roasted green beans, steamed broccoli, or glazed carrots. Sauteed Squash and Baked Squash Casserole are also delicious choices. Warm rolls or biscuits make the meal extra cozy. For leftovers, tuck a chilled slice into toasted bread with lettuce, cheese, or a spoonful of gravy for a hearty sandwich.
Storage, Freezing, and Reheating
Refrigerator: Let the meatloaf cool, then place it in a shallow airtight container or wrap individual slices well. Refrigerate promptly and enjoy within 3 to 4 days. Keeping slices separate makes lunches and quick dinners easier.
Freezer: Wrap fully cooled slices individually, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Label the package with the date. For best texture, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Warm slices gently so they do not dry out. Cover and microwave in short intervals, or place them in a baking dish with a spoonful of gravy or water, cover, and heat in the oven until hot throughout. If the bacon needs a little more crispness, uncover near the end. Reheat only the amount you plan to serve.
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Rock on!
~Bobbi
Meatloaf
Equipment
- 8 1/2 x 4 1/2 loaf pan
Ingredients
- 1/2 Lb Pork, Ground
- 1/2 Lb Beef, Ground Round
- 1 1/2 Cup Ritz Crackers, Crushed
- 2 Tbsp Worchestershire Sauce
- 1 Pkg Brown Gravy Mix 1/2 dry mix, 1/2 mixed with the 1/3 cup water
- 1/3 Cup Water
- 2 Eggs
- 1/4 Cup Cheddar Cheese, Shredded
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 4 Slices Bacon, cut in half
Instructions
- Preheat Oven to 400°. Spray Loaf Pan with Cooking Spray
- Mix together the following…Pork, Beef, Crushed Crackers, Worchestershire Sauce, Brown Gravy (see above for mixture), eggs, cheese and seasonings to taste.
- Put mixture in loaf pan (or other type dish if desired). Pack the meatloaf, so it doesn't fall apart while cooking.
- Lay your slices of bacon across the top.
- Cook for 40 minutes or until the internal temperature is at least 165°.
Notes
Nutrition
I love meatloaf and will have to try this version. Thanks for linking up to the Bloggers Brags Pinterest Party. I’ve pinned your post to the Bloggers Brags Pinterest Board
Tammy recently posted…The Ultimate Party for Week 16
Very much appreciated Tammy. If you try it, let me know what you think. Love feedback!
Have a great day!
Pingback: Fabulous Finds & Linky Party #11 - Mamas Blog Central
Looks delicious! Like the touch with the different meats mixed together 🙂
Rachael @ http://www.parentingandhomeschoolinginfaith.com
Once I started mixing the ground pork in, I never stopped. Makes it taste better with the mix of the two.
Thanks for stopping by…hope to see ya around 😉
It looks gorgeous and yummy. I wonder how it tastes. Thank you very much for sharing.
Adelien Tan recently posted…Geeky Educational Link Up #8
My tastebuds seem to like it 🙂 Thanks for stopping by and taking a look see!
Have a good one!
Cheese and bacon totally work for me!!! I’ll be pinning, as I’m sure my whole family would love this! Thanks for linking up to Merry Monday Linky! We’re so happy to have you! Julia
Julia@Happy House and Home recently posted…Photo Canvas Tutorial
Thanks for posting this week at the #WWDParty.
Mmm, I think I’m going to add bacon on top of our meat loaf next time.
Amber recently posted…Jurassic Park Fake Out
Bacon makes everything better..LOL. Thanks for stopping by Amber.
Have a great day!
Hi Karen. Hope you like it as much as I do 🙂 Thanks for stopping by and checking it out!!
Have a great weekend!
My pleasure Heidy!! Thanks for stopping by!
Have a great day!
Everything is better with bacon, right? Meatloaf is a comfort food for me and I have been wanting to make some lately. I think I’m going to try this recipe! Thanks for sharing on Hump Day Happenings.
Jenna @ A Savory Feast recently posted…Hump Day Happenings #14
Hi Jenna! Yup Yup…bacon makes everything better! I hope you like it, if you try it! Thanks for stopping by and checkin it out!
Have a great day!
Meatloaf is a great meal, since you can make it so many different ways. I use bread instead of crackers, but the bacon addition is a great idea! I will have to try it! Thanks for sharing at A Little R & R.
Debbie @ http://kidsbibledebjackson.blogspot.com/ recently posted…Bible File Folder Games
Hi Debbie! Thanks for stopping by. I have used bread, different types of crackers and even stuffing before. But bacon is a must no matter what I’m using. 😉
Have a great day!