Ultimate Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf with Sweet & Tangy Glaze

Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf with Sweet & Sour Glaze

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Recipe Category: Meat
Servings: Approximately 8-12

Description:
Elevate your meatloaf game with this gourmet twist that features a tantalizing sweet and sour glaze paired with crispy bacon. The savory meatloaf is made even more delectable with a rich glaze that balances sweetness and tanginess. Ideal for a comforting family dinner, this recipe also turns leftovers into incredible sandwiches. Trust us, the extra effort is worth every bite! 🍖🥓

Ingredients:

• For the Glaze:

  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons cider vinegar

• For the Meatloaf:

  • 4 tablespoons oil (for sautéing)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 medium onions, finely chopped
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1/2 pound ground pork
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup plain yogurt
  • 1/2 cup oatmeal
  • 8-12 slices bacon

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that it will be perfectly hot for cooking your meatloaf.

2. Prepare the Glaze: In a medium bowl, combine 1/2 cup ketchup, 1/4 cup brown sugar, and 2 tablespoons cider vinegar. Stir well until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth. Set this aside for later use. This glaze is what will give your meatloaf its irresistible sweet and tangy flavor. 🍯

3. Sauté Aromatics: Heat 4 tablespoons of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and minced garlic, cooking them until they become tender and fragrant. This step infuses your meatloaf with rich, caramelized flavors. Once done, remove from heat and let cool slightly.

4. Mix the Meatloaf: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed onions and garlic with 1 pound of ground beef, 1/2 pound of ground pork, 2 large eggs, 2 teaspoons of dried thyme, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, 1/2 cup of plain yogurt, and 1/2 cup of oatmeal. Use your hands to mix these ingredients thoroughly. Ensure that everything is well incorporated but avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.

5. Shape and Prepare for Baking: Form the meat mixture into a loaf shape and place it onto a foil-lined baking pan. This lining will help with easy cleanup later. Brush half of the prepared glaze evenly over the top and sides of the meatloaf, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully during baking. 🍖

6. Wrap with Bacon: Lay 8-12 slices of bacon over the meatloaf, making sure to tuck the ends underneath the loaf. This step not only adds a delicious layer of flavor but also helps to keep the meatloaf moist and adds a crispy texture.

7. Bake the Meatloaf: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 1 hour. The bacon should become crispy and golden brown. You can use a meat thermometer to check if the internal temperature of the meatloaf has reached 160°F (70°C) to ensure it is fully cooked.

8. Rest and Serve: Once baked, allow the meatloaf to cool for about 20 minutes before slicing. This resting period helps the juices redistribute throughout the meatloaf, making each slice flavorful and juicy. Serve with the remaining glaze on the side for an extra burst of flavor. 🍽️

Enjoy Your Meal: Whether you’re serving this meatloaf for a family dinner or preparing delicious leftovers for sandwiches, this Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf with Sweet & Sour Glaze is sure to be a hit. Bon appétit! 🌟