There’s nothing more comforting than a warm, hearty meatloaf fresh out of the oven. This Swiss Cheese, Bacon, and Mushroom Meatloaf is a game-changer, combining rich, savory flavors in a tender and juicy loaf. The smoky bacon adds a crispy texture, the mushrooms bring an earthy depth, and the Swiss cheese melts beautifully into the meat, creating an incredibly satisfying dish. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, a special family gathering, or meal prepping for the week, this meatloaf is bound to become a favorite. Serve it with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad for a complete and comforting meal.
🛒 Ingredients:
To achieve the perfect texture and flavor, you’ll need a combination of meats. Start with 1 pound of ground beef and ½ pound of ground pork, which together create a well-balanced, juicy meatloaf. The addition of 1 cup of breadcrumbs acts as a binder, keeping the meatloaf from falling apart while maintaining a moist consistency. To further enhance the richness, ½ cup of milk is added to soften the breadcrumbs and create a tender texture.
For a boost of umami and cheesy goodness, ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese is mixed in, adding depth to every bite. You’ll also need ½ cup of finely chopped onions, which provide a touch of sweetness and balance out the savoriness of the meat. 1 cup of finely chopped mushrooms brings a subtle earthiness and helps keep the meatloaf moist.
One of the standout ingredients is 4 slices of bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled into the mixture, giving the meatloaf a smoky and slightly salty punch. 1 cup of shredded Swiss cheese is another key component, ensuring that every slice has a gooey, melty surprise inside.
To bind everything together, you’ll need 2 large eggs. For seasoning, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce adds a deep, tangy complexity, while 1 tablespoon of ketchup enhances the sweetness and moisture. 1 teaspoon of garlic powder and 1 teaspoon of dried thyme add layers of flavor, while ½ teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of black pepper ensure a well-seasoned bite.
Finally, for a delicious glaze, ½ cup of ketchup is spread on top before baking, creating a sweet and tangy caramelized crust.
👨🍳 Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure that it’s at the right temperature when the meatloaf is ready to go in.
2. Cook the bacon and sauté the vegetables
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until it becomes crispy. Remove the bacon and place it on a paper towel to absorb excess grease, then crumble it once it cools down.
In the same skillet, using the leftover bacon fat or a small amount of olive oil, sauté the finely chopped onions and mushrooms until they soften and become fragrant, about 5 minutes. Let them cool slightly before mixing them into the meatloaf mixture.
3. Prepare the meat mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, and milk. Mix gently until the milk has been absorbed. Add the Parmesan cheese, crumbled bacon, Swiss cheese, sautéed onions, and mushrooms, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
Next, crack in the eggs, followed by the Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Using clean hands or a spatula, mix everything together just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf dense and tough instead of tender.
4. Shape the meatloaf and add the topping
Transfer the mixture onto a lined baking sheet or a lightly greased loaf pan, shaping it into a loaf. Spread the ½ cup of ketchup evenly over the top to form a rich, flavorful glaze as it bakes.
5. Bake the meatloaf
Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 60-70 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) when tested with a meat thermometer. The outside should be beautifully caramelized, and the inside should be juicy and fully cooked.
6. Rest before slicing
Once baked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This step is crucial, as it allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meatloaf moist and flavorful.
7. Serve and enjoy
Slice the meatloaf into thick pieces and serve warm with your favorite side dishes. It pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, buttered green beans, or a crisp garden salad.
💡 Pro Tips for the Perfect Meatloaf:
✅ Don’t overmix the meat: Overworking the meat mixture can lead to a tough and dry meatloaf. Mix just until all ingredients are combined.
✅ Use a meat thermometer: This ensures that the meatloaf is fully cooked while still remaining juicy. The ideal internal temperature is 160°F (71°C).
✅ Let it rest before slicing: Allowing the meatloaf to rest for at least 10 minutes prevents the juices from running out, keeping it moist.
✅ Customize your flavors: Try adding a pinch of smoked paprika for an extra smoky kick, or mix in fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary for added freshness.
🍽️ What to Serve with Your Meatloaf:
This Swiss Cheese, Bacon, and Mushroom Meatloaf is a complete meal on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can make it even more enjoyable. Here are some delicious serving suggestions:
- Mashed Potatoes with Gravy: A classic, buttery side that complements the richness of the meatloaf.
- Roasted Vegetables: Try roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus for a nutritious addition.
- Garlic Butter Green Beans: A simple, flavorful side that adds color to your plate.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the flavorful juices.
❓ What’s Your Favorite Meatloaf Variation?
Do you love adding barbecue sauce instead of ketchup? Or maybe you have a special ingredient that makes your meatloaf unique? Share your thoughts and let’s talk about your favorite twists on this classic dish! 😊🍽️
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