Introduction
Meatloaf is a beloved comfort food that evokes memories of home-cooked meals and family gatherings. This Bacon Mushroom Swiss Cheese Meatloaf takes the traditional recipe to new heights by infusing it with the rich flavors of crispy bacon, earthy mushrooms, and creamy Swiss cheese. The combination of ground beef and pork creates a succulent texture, while the addition of Parmesan and a tangy ketchup topping brings a delightful depth of flavor. Perfect for a cozy dinner or as leftovers for sandwiches, this meatloaf is sure to become a family favorite. Gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a deliciously satisfying meal that’s both comforting and indulgent!
Ingredients:
Meat Mixture:
1 pound ground beef
1/2 pound ground pork
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup finely chopped onions
1 cup finely chopped mushrooms
4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
2 large eggs
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon ketchup
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Topping:
1/2 cup ketchup
Directions:
Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare Ingredients:
In a skillet, cook the bacon until crispy, then crumble it.
Sauté the chopped onions and mushrooms in the same skillet until the mushrooms are tender and the onions are translucent. Set aside to cool.
Mix Meatloaf:
In a large bowl, combine:
Ground beef
Ground pork
Breadcrumbs
Milk
Parmesan cheese
Cooked bacon
Shredded Swiss cheese
Sautéed onions and mushrooms
Eggs
Worcestershire sauce
Ketchup
Garlic powder
Dried thyme
Salt
Black pepper
Mix everything together until well combined, but be careful not to overmix.
Shape and Bake:
Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish or on a lined baking sheet.
Spread the additional 1/2 cup of ketchup evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the meatloaf is cooked through.
Storage Steps:
Cool Down:
Allow the meatloaf to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes after baking.
Choose Storage Container:
Use an airtight container or wrap the meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Slice for Easy Storage:
For convenience, slice the meatloaf into individual portions before storing. This makes it easier to reheat only what you need.
Label and Date:
If using a container, label it with the date to keep track of freshness.
Choose Storage Location:
Refrigerate: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it’s in an airtight container to prevent drying out.
Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the meatloaf for up to 3 months. Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
Reheating Instructions:
From Refrigerator:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the meatloaf slices in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
From Freezer:
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Then reheat in the oven as described above, or microwave individual slices for a quick option.
Tips for Best Results:
Prevent Drying: When reheating, consider adding a splash of broth or water to the dish to help keep the meatloaf moist.
Check for Freshness: Always check for any off smells or changes in texture before consuming leftovers.