This bacon-wrapped meatloaf is a fresh twist on classic meatloaf. Made with a mix of ground pork and beef, the mixture is formed into individual mini loaves and wrapped in bacon strips. These single-serving meatloaves are easy enough for a weeknight family dinner but pretty enough to serve guests.
On a visit to family last summer my sister-in-law made these adorable bacon-wrapped mini meatloaves. I brought the idea home and served them to my family — they were an instant hit. The bacon keeps each portion moist and adds a delicious, savory finish.
Ingredients for Mini Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf
- 3/4 pound lean ground beef
- 3/4 pound lean ground pork (or use 1 1/2 pounds ground beef if you prefer)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 egg
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1 cup milk
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 slices bacon
Step-by-Step Instructions for Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, diced onion, egg, panko bread crumbs, milk, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Use your hands to mix gently but thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Divide the meat mixture into 8 equal portions. Shape each portion into a small loaf or oval and place them on a rimmed baking sheet.
- Cut each bacon slice in half. Lay two halves across each mini meatloaf in a crisscross pattern and tuck the ends underneath so the bacon stays in place during baking.
- Bake for about 50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches a safe level for ground meat and the loaves are cooked through. If you prefer extra-crispy bacon, switch the oven to broil for 3–5 minutes at the end and move the rack near the top—watch closely to prevent burning.
Remove the mini meatloaves from the baking sheet and transfer to a platter to rest for a few minutes before serving. For easier cleanup, line the baking sheet with parchment paper or place the loaves on a raised rack so grease collects below.
What to Serve with Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf
These mini meatloaves pair well with a simple squirt of ketchup or a brush of barbecue sauce. Classic side dishes include smashed potatoes, baked or mashed potatoes, potato salad, or cheesy potatoes. Leftovers also make excellent meatloaf sandwiches—try them with a bowl of potato soup for a comforting meal.
How to Freeze Mini Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaves
These individual meatloaves freeze beautifully and are handy for meal prep. Form the loaves and wrap them in bacon, then place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for about 2 hours until firm. Transfer the frozen portions to a zip-top bag or airtight container.
To bake from frozen, allow extra cooking time and check for doneness with a thermometer. Alternatively, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
Variations and Substitutions
- Substitute quick oats or old-fashioned oats for the bread crumbs for a gluten-free-ish option (use certified gluten-free oats if necessary).
- Make one large bacon-wrapped meatloaf instead of individual portions if you prefer a classic presentation.
- For a spicier version, add chili flakes, cayenne, or a meatloaf seasoning blend to the meat mixture.
Other Meatloaf Ideas
- A quick, easy meatloaf with a simple glaze is a great weeknight favorite.
- Lipton onion soup mix added to the meat mixture creates a flavorful Lipton Onion-style meatloaf variation.
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Recipe Summary
Yield: 8 mini meatloaves • Prep Time: 5 minutes • Cook Time: 50 minutes • Total Time: 55 minutes
Ingredients
- 3/4 lb lean ground beef
- 3/4 lb lean ground pork (or substitute all beef)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 egg
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1 cup milk
- Salt and pepper
- 8 slices bacon
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix meat, onion, egg, bread crumbs, milk, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
- Divide into 8 portions, shape into mini loaves, and place on a rimmed baking sheet.
- Cut bacon slices in half and crisscross two pieces over each mini loaf, tucking ends under.
- Bake 50 minutes or until cooked through. Broil 3–5 minutes for crispier bacon, watching closely.
- Rest briefly, then serve with your favorite sides.
Enjoy these easy, flavorful bacon-wrapped mini meatloaves for weeknight dinners, freezer-friendly meals, or a casual dinner party. The bacon keeps each portion juicy and adds a delicious finishing touch.
