Smoked Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf

Name: Smoked Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-484244H11M58S
Total time: 31 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 large eggs; ½ cup ketchup; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 ½ cups diced white sandwich bread; ½ pint heavy cream; ½ medium onion, diced; 1 tbsp garlic, minced; ½ tsp salt; ¼ tsp pepper; 2 lbs ground beef (80/20); 1 lb bacon strips; ¼ cup BBQ sauce

Recipe By:

Rachael

Posted:

March 16, 2025

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Smoked Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf is a delightful twist on the classic comfort food that many of us grew up enjoying. Picture this: a savory meatloaf wrapped in crispy bacon, soaking up an abundance of smoky flavors from your grill. It’s a dish that transforms a traditional recipe into something magical, always leaving friends and family craving more. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, throwing a casual dinner party, or just cooking for yourself, this flavorful meatloaf is sure to impress.

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Making smoked bacon wrapped meatloaf isn’t just about the end result; it’s about the experience. The delightful aroma filling your kitchen while it cooks, the anticipation as you slice into it, and the smiles it brings to the table—simply priceless! So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let’s prepare this mouthwatering delight together.

What is Smoked Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf

Smoked Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf takes the classic recipe we all know and love and gives it a delicious makeover. Instead of a plain meatloaf, imagine each bite filled with the savory goodness of bacon. The smoky flavor enhances the juicy meatloaf, making it a must-try for any meatloaf lover. It’s a perfect dish for a cozy family dinner, but it can also shine at gatherings where you want to wow your guests. Trust me, once you try it, you will wonder how you ever lived without this recipe in your repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Smoked Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf

There are plenty of reasons to fall in love with this smoked bacon wrapped meatloaf. First, it is incredibly easy to prepare, which is a huge plus when balancing a busy life. Just picture the hearty, smoky goodness that envelops each slice, providing a rich flavor that’s hard to resist. The bacon adds a delightful crunch, creating a satisfying contrast with the tender meatloaf inside.

Plus, impressing your guests doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. With this meatloaf, you can show off your culinary skills without missing out on the fun. Each slice encapsulates the love and effort you put into making it, ensuring your meal is memorable and delicious.

Ingredients for Smoked Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf

To make this delectable dish, gather the following ingredients:

2 large eggs
½ cup ketchup
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 ½ cups diced white sandwich bread
½ pint heavy cream
½ medium onion, diced
1 tbsp garlic, minced
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp pepper
2 lbs ground beef (80/20)
1 lb bacon strips
¼ cup BBQ sauce

These ingredients come together to create a mouthwatering meatloaf. The balance of flavors provided by the bacon, garlic, and Worcestershire sauce is what makes this dish stand out.

Preparing the Meatloaf Mixture

Combine Ingredients

Start by grabbing a large bowl. In it, whisk together the eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, diced bread, heavy cream, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is well combined. The mixture should have a lovely, cohesive texture.

Add Ground Beef

Next, gently fold in the ground beef. Mix until just combined, but be careful not to overmix. Overmixing can lead to a dense meatloaf, and we definitely want it to stay tender and juicy.

Shaping and Wrapping the Meatloaf

Form the Meatloaf

Now comes the fun part! Transfer your meat mixture to a large cast iron skillet or a deep baking pan. Shape it into a log, approximately 5-6 inches wide. This will help it cook evenly and looks great when served.

Wrap with Bacon

Take your bacon strips and lay them over the meatloaf, slightly overlapping each piece to cover every inch. Use your fingers to wrap the bacon around the sides, making sure there are no gaps. This step is crucial as it keeps the meatloaf moist while grilling, letting the flavors meld beautifully.

Smoking the Meatloaf

Preheat the Smoker

Before you start smoking, set your smoker—whether it’s a Traeger, Pitt Boss, or another brand— to a temperature of 250°F. Give it a few moments to preheat fully while you prepare the meatloaf.

Smoke the Meatloaf

Now, place your bacon-wrapped masterpiece into the smoker. Close the lid and smoke it until the internal temperature reaches 145°F. Keep an eye on it with your meat thermometer. This ensures the meatloaf is cooked through, but still maintains its moist texture.

Brush with BBQ Sauce

Once the meatloaf hits 145°F, take a moment to brush the top with your favorite BBQ sauce. It adds a sticky, sweet layer that enhances the flavor even more. Continue smoking until the internal temperature reaches 160°F, ensuring a safe and delicious meal.

Transfer and Rest

When it’s done, carefully transfer the meatloaf from the smoker to a wire rack. Cover it with foil and let it rest for 15-20 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, making each slice even more flavorful and tender.

Serving Suggestions

Now for the best part! Slice the smoked bacon-wrapped meatloaf into thick segments and serve it with some extra BBQ sauce on the side. It pairs wonderfully with traditional sides like creamy mashed potatoes, refreshing coleslaw, or roasted vegetables. Feel free to get creative with your plate!

Tips for Success

Remember to wet your hands when mixing to prevent everything from sticking.
Opt for high-quality bacon; it makes a significant difference in flavor and texture.
Keep a close watch on the internal temperature to avoid drying out your meatloaf.

Variations

If you want to mix things up a bit, consider some fun variations:

Cheese-Stuffed Meatloaf: Incorporate your favorite cheese into the meat mixture for a creamy surprise.
Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or spicy sausage for a little heat.
Vegetable Addition: Finely chop bell peppers or zucchini for added moisture and a nutritional boost.

Storage Tips

If you have any leftovers, let the meatloaf cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat in the oven for the best texture.

Pairing Ideas

To complete your meal, consider pairing your smoked bacon wrapped meatloaf with:

Wine: A robust red wine, like Cabernet Sauvignon, pairs perfectly with its rich flavors.
Beer: A refreshing lager or a stout complements the savory notes of the meatloaf beautifully.
Sides: Serve alongside classic sides like green beans, corn on the cob, or garlic bread for a wonderful feast.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, you can! Just be aware that it might lead to a drier meatloaf; consider adding extra moisture if you do.

2. How long does it take to smoke the meatloaf?
Typically, it takes about 2-3 hours, depending on its thickness and the temperature of your smoker.

3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the mixture and shape it. Then refrigerate until you’re ready to smoke.

4. What type of wood pellets should I use?
Hickory or apple wood pellets work wonderfully, adding depth to the smoky flavor.

5. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in an oven at 350°F until warmed through. This helps maintain the bacon’s crispiness.

The Smoked Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf is more than just food; it’s an experience! With its perfect balance of flavors, richness, and smokiness, this recipe will soon become a cherished family favorite. Share it with your loved ones, and enjoy every savory bite!

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Smoked Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf

What is Smoked Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf

Why You’ll Love This Smoked Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf

Ingredients for Smoked Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf