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Savory BBQ Meatloaf Recipe with Crispy Bacon Weave Topping

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A hearty and comforting meatloaf topped with a crispy bacon weave and smoky BBQ sauce glaze, perfect for cozy dinners and busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend)
  • 12 slices thick-cut bacon
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (90g)
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ cup BBQ sauce (120 ml), plus extra for glazing
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • ¼ cup milk (60 ml), whole or dairy-free alternative
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
  2. Prepare the bacon weave: Lay out 6 strips of bacon side-by-side on the parchment. Then, weave 6 more strips over and under the first layer, creating a tight bacon lattice. Set aside.
  3. Mix the meatloaf base: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, onion, garlic, BBQ sauce, Worcestershire sauce, milk, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and parsley if using. Gently mix until just combined.
  4. Shape the meatloaf: On the lined baking sheet, form the meat mixture into a rough loaf about 9 inches long, 5 inches wide, and 2 inches thick.
  5. Top with the bacon weave: Carefully transfer the bacon lattice over the meatloaf, trimming any overhang with scissors. Tuck the edges of the bacon underneath the loaf to secure it.
  6. Brush the bacon and edges with extra BBQ sauce to caramelize during baking.
  7. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the bacon is crispy and browned.
  8. Remove from the oven and let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
  9. Slice into thick pieces and serve warm.

Notes

Prepare the bacon weave ahead and refrigerate if desired; bring to room temperature before use. Tent with foil if bacon browns too quickly. Do not overmix meat to avoid dense meatloaf. Rest meatloaf 10 minutes before slicing to retain juices. For gluten-free, substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free panko. Ground turkey or chicken can be used but may require extra egg or milk for moisture.

Nutrition

Keywords: meatloaf, BBQ meatloaf, bacon weave, comfort food, easy dinner, savory meatloaf, smoky bacon, weeknight meal

Find it online: https://leilameals.com/savory-bbq-meatloaf-recipe-with-crispy-bacon-weave-topping-easy-and-perfect/