Bacon Mushroom Swiss Cheese Meatloaf: A Savory Delight

If you’re looking for a comforting and flavorful dish, look no further than this Bacon Mushroom Swiss Cheese Meatloaf! Combining the smoky goodness of bacon, the earthy flavors of mushrooms, and the creamy richness of Swiss cheese, this meatloaf takes a classic dish to a whole new level. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This meatloaf is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with your favorite herbs and spices. Plus, the addition of bacon and cheese makes it an indulgent treat that’s packed with flavor!

Ingredients You'll Need

• For the Meatloaf:
  • 1 ½ pounds ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
  • 4 strips of bacon, chopped
  • 1 cup mushrooms, finely chopped
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (Italian-style recommended)
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded (plus extra for topping)
• For the Topping:
  • ¼ cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a loaf pan.
2. Cook the Bacon and Vegetables:
   • In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving the drippings in the skillet.
   • In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and mushrooms. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the onions are translucent and the mushrooms are softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. Mix the Meatloaf:
   • In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked bacon, sautéed onion and mushroom mixture, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
4. Add the Cheese:
   • Fold in the shredded Swiss cheese until evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
5. Shape and Bake:
   • Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan, shaping it into a loaf.
   • In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard. Spread this mixture over the top of the meatloaf, and sprinkle additional Swiss cheese if desired.
6. Bake:
   • Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C) and the meatloaf is cooked through.
7. Cool and Slice:
   • Allow the meatloaf to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, making for a moist and flavorful meatloaf.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Serve your bacon mushroom Swiss cheese meatloaf with mashed potatoes, green beans, or your favorite side dishes for a complete meal.

Tips for the Best Meatloaf

• Use High-Quality Meat: Choose a good quality ground beef for the best flavor. A mix of beef and pork can add extra moisture and richness.
• Customize Your Fillings: Feel free to add other ingredients like chopped bell peppers or herbs to personalize your meatloaf.
• Leftovers: This meatloaf is great for leftovers! Use it in sandwiches, on top of salads, or as part of a hearty breakfast.

Conclusion

This Bacon Mushroom Swiss Cheese Meatloaf is a hearty and satisfying dish that brings comfort food to a whole new level. The combination of flavors and textures is sure to please everyone at the dinner table. Perfect for family meals or gatherings, this recipe is one you’ll want to keep on hand! Enjoy the deliciousness and make it a staple in your kitchen.