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Perfect BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf Recipe

BBQ bacon-wrapped meatloaf - featured image

A flavorful and easy BBQ bacon-wrapped meatloaf that transforms classic comfort food with smoky, sweet, and savory flavors. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds (680 grams) ground beef (80/20 blend)
  • 12 strips thick-cut bacon
  • 3/4 cup (75 grams) breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-style, panko optional)
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) milk
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) BBQ sauce, plus extra for glazing
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Let cool slightly.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, sautéed onion and garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and fresh parsley. Mix gently until just combined.
  4. Shape the mixture into a loaf approximately 9 inches long and 5 inches wide. Transfer it to a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  5. Lay the bacon strips over the meatloaf, slightly overlapping, covering the entire surface. Tuck the ends underneath the loaf to hold in place.
  6. Bake uncovered for 45 minutes.
  7. Remove the meatloaf from the oven and brush the top generously with BBQ sauce.
  8. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the bacon is crisp.
  9. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
  10. Slice and serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side if desired.

Notes

Use an instant-read thermometer to check doneness at 160°F (71°C). For crispier bacon, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end but watch carefully to avoid burning. Let meatloaf rest 10 minutes before slicing to retain juices. Can prepare ahead and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking. For gluten-free, substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free crumbs. Dairy-free milk alternatives can be used.

Nutrition

Keywords: BBQ meatloaf, bacon wrapped meatloaf, comfort food, easy meatloaf recipe, smoky meatloaf, family dinner, weeknight meal