Bacon-wrapped Mini Meat Loaves

Bacon-wrapped Mini Meat Loaves Recipe - Delicious American Comfort Food

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 50 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Bacon-wrapped Mini Meat Loaves are a delightful twist on the traditional meatloaf, offering a perfect blend of savory flavors and a satisfying texture. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a mouth-watering dish that's sure to impress at any family dinner, potluck, or special occasion. The addition of bacon not only infuses the mini loaves with a smoky richness but also adds a crispy outer layer that complements the tender, juicy meat inside.

History

The concept of meatloaf has its roots in various cultures, dating back to Roman times, and has evolved over centuries. The modern American meatloaf, often associated with comfort food, gained popularity during the Great Depression as a way to stretch meat resources. The bacon-wrapped version is a more recent innovation, adding a gourmet touch to the humble meatloaf, making it not only a budget-friendly option but also a dish worthy of special occasions.

Ingredients

1.5 lb (680 g) of lean ground beef
1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 large egg
0.25 cup of dry breadcrumbs
0.25 cup of chopped white onion
0.25 cup of fresh lemon juice
0.25 cup of chopped green bell pepper
0.5 cup of water
0.5 tsp of instant beef bouillon
1 tsp of salt
6 thin slices of bacon, each cut in half

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
In a mixing bowl, combine all ingredients except bacon.
Shape the mixture into 6 small loaves.
Take 2 half slices of bacon and crisscross them over each loaf, tucking the ends under each loaf.
Place the loaves on a rack in a shallow baking pan and bake uncovered for 50 minutes.
Allow the loaves to stand for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.

Variations

Consider these variations to customize the recipe to your taste:
Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Add a mix of herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano for extra flavor.
Incorporate different cheeses, such as mozzarella or gouda, for a unique twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Bacon-wrapped Mini Meat Loaves turn out perfectly, consider the following tips:

- Use lean ground beef to prevent the loaves from becoming too greasy.

- Mix the ingredients gently to avoid compacting the meat, which can result in a dense texture.

- Wrap the bacon tightly around the loaves to ensure it stays in place during cooking.

- Place the loaves on a rack in the baking pan to allow air circulation for even cooking and to let excess fat drip away.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Bacon-wrapped Mini Meat Loaves with a side of mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or a fresh garden salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

For an extra crispy bacon wrap, consider broiling the mini meatloaves for the last few minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye on them to prevent the bacon from burning.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to make substitutions, here are a few options:

- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or rolled oats for a gluten-free version.

- Swap the egg for a flaxseed or chia seed egg to make it egg-free.

- Replace the beef bouillon with a vegetable bouillon for a slightly different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

These mini meatloaves can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator overnight before baking. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld together for an even tastier result.

Presentation Ideas

For an eye-catching presentation, serve each mini meatloaf on a small bed of arugula or spinach, topped with a drizzle of barbecue sauce or ketchup glaze.

Pairing Recommendations

A robust red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or a Zinfandel, pairs wonderfully with the rich flavors of the bacon and beef. For a non-alcoholic option, consider a sparkling grape juice or a rich tomato juice.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover mini meatloaves in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until thoroughly warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Bacon-wrapped Mini Meat Loaves contains approximately 350 calories. This makes it a hearty option that can fit into a balanced diet, especially when served with a side of vegetables or a salad.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Bacon-wrapped Mini Meat Loaves contains approximately 8 grams of carbohydrates. The primary sources of carbohydrates in this recipe are the breadcrumbs and vegetables, which also provide dietary fiber and essential nutrients.

Fats

The fats in this recipe come mainly from the lean ground beef and bacon. Each serving contains about 20 grams of fat, of which 7 grams are saturated. Using leaner cuts of beef and trimming excess fat from the bacon can help reduce the total fat content.

Proteins

Protein is a key component of this dish, with each serving providing approximately 25 grams. The high-quality protein from the ground beef and cheese supports muscle growth and repair, making this a satisfying and nutritious meal option.

Vitamins and minerals

This recipe is a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin B12, zinc, iron, and calcium. These nutrients play vital roles in maintaining health, from supporting the immune system to strengthening bones.

Alergens

The main allergens in this recipe are eggs, dairy (from the cheese), and gluten (from the breadcrumbs). Individuals with allergies or sensitivities to these ingredients should consider suitable substitutions.

Summary

Overall, Bacon-wrapped Mini Meat Loaves offer a balanced combination of macronutrients, with a moderate amount of carbohydrates, a good amount of protein, and a reasonable fat content. They also provide essential vitamins and minerals, making them a nutritious option for a main meal.

Summary

Bacon-wrapped Mini Meat Loaves are a versatile and delicious option for any meal, offering a modern take on a classic dish. With a balance of flavors and nutrients, they're sure to become a favorite. Whether you're cooking for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, these mini meatloaves are a satisfying and enjoyable choice.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated by it. It was a gloomy day outside, with the rain tapping gently on my kitchen window. I was flipping through an old cookbook that belonged to my mother, looking for inspiration for dinner. And that's when I stumbled upon the recipe for Bacon-wrapped Mini Meat Loaves.

I had never heard of such a dish before, but the combination of bacon and meatloaf sounded absolutely delicious. The recipe seemed simple enough, so I decided to give it a try.

I gathered all the ingredients I needed - ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and of course, bacon. As I mixed everything together in a bowl, the savory aroma of the meatloaf mixture filled my kitchen.

I shaped the mixture into mini loaves and wrapped each one with a strip of bacon. As I placed them in the oven to bake, I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement. I had a feeling that this dish was going to be something special.

As the meatloaves baked, the bacon crisped up and released its smoky aroma into the air. The scent was so tantalizing that I couldn't wait for them to be done.

Finally, the timer dinged, and I pulled the mini meatloaves out of the oven. The bacon was perfectly crispy, and the meatloaf was moist and flavorful. I couldn't wait to dig in.

I served the mini meatloaves with a side of mashed potatoes and green beans, and my family's eyes lit up when they saw what was on their plates. The first bite was pure bliss - the savory meatloaf, the crispy bacon, and the tangy ketchup all melded together in perfect harmony.

My family raved about the dish, and I knew that I had stumbled upon a new favorite recipe. From that day on, Bacon-wrapped Mini Meat Loaves became a staple in our household.

As the years went by, I continued to make this dish for special occasions and family gatherings. It was always a hit, and I loved watching the smiles on my loved ones' faces as they enjoyed each bite.

But it wasn't until I attended a cooking class at a local community center that I truly learned the secret to making the perfect Bacon-wrapped Mini Meat Loaves.

The instructor was a seasoned chef who had traveled the world and learned recipes from all different cultures. When he demonstrated how to make the mini meatloaves, I was amazed at the small tweaks and techniques that he used to elevate the dish to a whole new level.

He taught me to mix the meatloaf mixture gently, so that it would stay moist and tender. He showed me how to weave the bacon strips around the mini loaves in a beautiful lattice pattern, ensuring that each bite would have a perfect balance of meat and bacon.

But the most important lesson he imparted was the art of patience. He explained that good food takes time to prepare and cook, and that rushing the process would only result in a mediocre dish.

I took his words to heart and began to approach cooking with a new sense of mindfulness and care. I found joy in the process of creating delicious meals for my family, and I could see the difference in the way they savored each bite.

And so, the recipe for Bacon-wrapped Mini Meat Loaves became more than just a dish - it became a symbol of my journey as a cook. Each time I made it, I remembered the lessons I had learned from that cooking class and the joy it brought to my loved ones.

Now, as I pass down this recipe to future generations, I hope that they too will find inspiration and joy in the art of cooking. For me, Bacon-wrapped Mini Meat Loaves will always be more than just a recipe - it's a story of passion, perseverance, and love shared around the dinner table.