Description
Bacon Potato Meatloaf Recipe
Ingredients:
1 lb ground beef
1/2 lb ground pork
1 cup breadcrumbs
2 eggs
1/2 cup milk
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cups diced potatoes, pre-cooked
6 slices of bacon
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, onion, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Fold in the diced potatoes gently.
4. Line a loaf pan with bacon slices, letting them hang over the edges.
5. Press the meat mixture into the pan, packing it firmly. Fold the bacon ends over the top.
6. Bake for 60-70 minutes or until fully cooked.
7. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley.
#MeatloafRecipe #ComfortFood
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed steps for a foolproof meatloaf. First, pre-cook your diced potatoes by boiling them for 8-10 minutes until just tender; drain and let cool completely. This prevents a soggy loaf. In your large mixing bowl, soak the breadcrumbs in the milk for five minutes to create a panade, which ensures a moist texture. Then, add the ground meats, eggs, chopped onion, and all seasonings. Use your hands to mix until just combined—overmixing makes the loaf dense. Gently fold in the cooled potatoes. For the bacon weave, lay 6 slices side-by-side vertically on a board. Fold every other slice back halfway, place a horizontal slice at the fold, and unfold the vertical slices. Repeat weaving until the bacon lattice is the size of your loaf pan. Line the pan with this weave, press in the meat mixture, and fold the bacon ends over the top.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty meatloaf is a complete meal but pairs beautifully with lighter sides. Serve a thick slice alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to cut the richness. For classic comfort, creamy mashed peas or roasted green beans are excellent. The leftovers make a phenomenal sandwich the next day on toasted sourdough with a smear of mayonnaise and lettuce.
How-to Summary
In short: pre-cook potatoes, soak breadcrumbs, mix meats and seasonings gently, fold in potatoes, weave bacon, line pan, add mixture, fold bacon over, and bake at 375°F for 60-70 minutes. Always let it rest before slicing to retain juices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use only ground beef? Yes, use 1.5 lbs of ground beef (80/20 blend for fat). The pork adds moisture, so the all-beef version may be slightly denser.
How do I know when it’s fully cooked? The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) when measured with a meat thermometer in the center.
Can I prepare it ahead of time? Absolutely. Assemble the loaf, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
What’s the best way to store leftovers? Store sliced meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.
Can I make this without a loaf pan? Yes. Form the mixture into a freeform loaf on a parchment-lined baking sheet. The bacon may not wrap as tightly, but it will still crisp nicely.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using raw potatoes: They won’t cook through, leaving hard chunks.
- Overmixing the meat: This activates proteins, creating a tough, rubbery texture.
- Not letting it rest: Slicing immediately causes the loaf to crumble and lose juices.
- Using lean meat: Opt for meats with some fat content (like 80/20 beef) for moisture and flavor.
- Packing the pan too tightly: Firm but not rock-hard packing ensures even cooking.
Conclusion
This Bacon Potato Meatloaf elevates a classic comfort dish with smoky flavor and hearty texture. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll create a consistently delicious, crowd-pleasing centerpiece for any meal. Its versatility and make-ahead potential make it a reliable recipe to return to again and again. Enjoy the delicious results of your culinary effort.