Description
Potato and Bacon Meatloaf
Ingredients:
500g ground beef
2 medium potatoes, boiled and diced
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)
6-8 slices of bacon
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 tablespoon ketchup (optional, for topping)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, diced boiled potatoes, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, shredded cheese (if using), salt, black pepper, and thyme. Mix until well combined.
3. Assemble the Meatloaf: Line a loaf pan with bacon slices, letting them hang over the edges slightly. Pack the meat mixture into the pan, pressing down firmly. Fold the bacon slices over the top to cover the meatloaf. Optionally, spread ketchup on top.
4. Bake: Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until fully cooked through and the bacon is crispy.
5. Rest and Serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley and serve warm.
This potato and bacon meatloaf is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for a comforting dinner.
#MeatloafRecipe #PotatoAndBacon
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect meatloaf. First, ensure your boiled potatoes are well-drained and cooled before dicing them into small, uniform pieces. In your large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, potatoes, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, cheese, and seasonings. Use your hands to mix thoroughly, but avoid overworking the meat, which can make the loaf dense. For the bacon weave, lay the strips side-by-side vertically in the loaf pan, then lift and fold alternating strips horizontally to create a lattice before pressing the meat mixture in. This ensures full coverage. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 70°C (160°F).
Serving Suggestions
This hearty meatloaf is a complete meal on its own but pairs beautifully with simple sides. For a classic comfort food plate, serve a slice alongside garlic mashed potatoes and steamed green beans or honey-glazed carrots. A fresh, crisp garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette helps cut through the richness. Leftovers make excellent sandwiches the next day—simply slice and serve between two pieces of toasted bread with a smear of mayonnaise and extra ketchup.
How-to Summary
To make Potato and Bacon Meatloaf: mix ground beef, diced boiled potatoes, aromatics, breadcrumbs, egg, and seasonings. Line a loaf pan with bacon, add the meat mixture, and fold bacon over the top. Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 50-60 minutes until cooked through and bacon is crisp. Rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, ground pork, turkey, or a mix can be used. Adjust cooking time as needed, as leaner meats may cook faster.
How can I make this gluten-free?
Substitute the breadcrumbs with an equal amount of gluten-free oats or certified gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Can I prepare the meatloaf ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble the meatloaf in the pan, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Why is resting the meatloaf important?
Resting allows the juices to redistribute, preventing them from running out when you slice it, resulting in a moister final product.
My bacon isn’t getting crispy. What can I do?
If the bacon is still limp after baking, place the meatloaf under a preheated broiler for 2-3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using hot boiled potatoes, which can start cooking the egg and make the mixture gummy.
- Overmixing the meatloaf ingredients, leading to a tough, dense texture.
- Not pressing the mixture firmly into the pan, which can cause it to crumble when sliced.
- Skipping the resting time, causing the meatloaf to fall apart.
- Using thin-cut bacon, which may render too much fat and not hold its shape as well as regular-cut.
Conclusion
This Potato and Bacon Meatloaf transforms a classic dish into an extraordinary centerpiece. The combination of savory beef, hearty potatoes, and smoky, crispy bacon creates layers of flavor and texture that are sure to satisfy. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can avoid common pitfalls and achieve a perfectly cooked, juicy meatloaf every time. It’s a reliable, crowd-pleasing recipe perfect for family dinners or casual entertaining, offering both comfort and deliciousness in every slice.