Welcome to the ultimate culinary journey where we explore a classic comfort food with a delightful twist: Bacon, Onion, and Bell Pepper Meatloaf. This isn't your average meatloaf recipe; it's a symphony of flavors that elevates the humble dish to new heights. Whether you're cooking for a special occasion or just in need of a hearty, soul-warming meal, this recipe will become your go-to. Let's dive into the ingredients and steps needed to create this gourmet meatloaf experience.
Ingredients for the Ultimate Meatloaf
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (80/20 for that perfect juiciness)
- 1/2 pound ground pork
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, finely diced
- 1 red bell pepper, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably fresh from day-old bread)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/4 cup milk or beef broth
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions for Creating the Meatloaf
Step 1: Sauté the Veggies and Bacon
Begin by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon, letting it cook until it releases its fat and begins to crisp up, about 6 minutes. Remove some of the bacon fat if it seems excessive, but leave enough for flavor. Now, add your finely chopped onions and bell peppers, sautéing until they soften and the onions turn translucent. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute. This process not only flavors the meatloaf but also reduces the moisture content of the vegetables, which is key for a firm texture.
Step 2: Combine the Meatloaf Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and pork. Add your cooked bacon, onion, bell pepper, and garlic mixture to the meat, mixing thoroughly to ensure even distribution. This is where the magic happens; every bite will be infused with these delicious flavors.
Next, incorporate the breadcrumbs, beaten eggs, milk (or beef broth), ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, thyme, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until you have a uniform texture. Here’s where you can adjust the seasoning to your taste:
- If the mixture feels too wet, add a bit more breadcrumb; if it’s too dry, a splash of more milk or broth will help.
- Be gentle when mixing to keep the meat tender. Overmixing can lead to a dense meatloaf.
Step 3: Shape and Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). On a baking sheet lined with parchment or foil for easy cleanup, shape your meat mixture into a loaf, pressing gently to ensure it holds its shape during baking. You can also use a loaf pan for a more uniform shape.
Bake for approximately 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Remember, residual heat will continue cooking the meatloaf even after it’s removed from the oven.
📝 Note: For a more caramelized crust, consider brushing the top with a mixture of additional ketchup, brown sugar, and vinegar halfway through baking.
Step 4: Rest and Serve
Allow the meatloaf to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This rest period helps the juices redistribute, ensuring each slice stays moist and flavorful.
The Art of Accompaniment
A great meatloaf deserves perfect sides to complement its rich flavors:
- Mashed Potatoes: Smooth and creamy, providing a contrast to the meatloaf’s texture.
- Glazed Carrots: Sweet, tender carrots with a honey glaze add a touch of elegance.
- Roasted Garlic Brussel Sprouts: Brussels sprouts roasted with garlic offer a different texture and a pop of flavor.
To wrap up, the Bacon, Onion, and Bell Pepper Meatloaf is more than just a meal; it's an experience. This recipe infuses the traditional comfort food with layers of flavor from bacon, onions, and peppers, transforming it into something extraordinary. Whether you're feeding a family or entertaining guests, this meatloaf stands as a testament to the art of home cooking, where simple ingredients come together to create something unforgettable.
Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
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Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf ahead of time, refrigerate it, and then bake it when you’re ready. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before cooking to ensure even baking.
What if I don’t like bell peppers?
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Feel free to omit or substitute with another vegetable like mushrooms or zucchini for a different texture and flavor profile.
How can I store leftovers?
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Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should keep for 3-4 days. You can also slice and freeze the meatloaf for later use, up to 3 months.
Related Terms:
- Bacon wrapped meatloaf
- Meatloaf
- Bacon Wrapped Cheese Stuffed Meatloaf
- Stuffed Meatloaf
- Bacon wrapped smoked meatloaf
- Smoked meatloaf
