Bacon Mushroom Swiss Cheese Meatloaf

Bacon Mushroom Swiss Cheese Meatloaf is a delicious and savory twist on the classic meatloaf, incorporating the smoky flavor of bacon, the earthy richness of mushrooms, and the creamy goodness of Swiss cheese. Here’s a recipe for this hearty dish:

Ingredients:

• For the meatloaf:
  • 1 lb ground beef (80% lean)
  • 1/2 lb ground pork
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
• For the bacon, mushrooms, and Swiss cheese:
  • 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 1 cup mushrooms, chopped (button or cremini mushrooms work well)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)
  • 1 1/2 cups Swiss cheese, shredded (or sliced)
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
• For the glaze:
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the meatloaf mixture

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined (don’t overmix).

Step 2: Prepare the bacon and mushrooms

1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove it from the pan and drain on paper towels. Crumble the bacon into small pieces.
2. In the same skillet, add the chopped mushrooms and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. If needed, add a little olive oil to sauté the mushrooms. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, then remove from the heat.

Step 3: Form the meatloaf and add fillings

1. On a baking sheet or in a loaf pan, form the meat mixture into a loaf shape.
2. Use your finger or a spoon to create a shallow well in the middle of the loaf.
3. Fill the well with the crumbled bacon and sautéed mushrooms, pressing them gently into the meat.
4. Layer the shredded Swiss cheese over the bacon and mushrooms, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.

Step 4: Bake the meatloaf

1. Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

Step 5: Prepare the glaze

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, and smoked paprika (if using).
2. About 10 minutes before the meatloaf is done, brush the glaze over the top of the meatloaf.

Step 6: Finish baking and serve

1. Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the glaze to set and the cheese to melt.
2. Let the meatloaf rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Tips:

• For a healthier version, you can substitute ground turkey for the beef and pork.
• Feel free to add more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to the meat mixture for extra flavor.
• If you prefer a crispy top, bake the meatloaf uncovered throughout the cooking time.

This meatloaf is great served with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad. Enjoy!