When the scent of sizzling bacon fills the house, it’s impossible not to feel a warm wave of nostalgia wash over me. That’s exactly how this BBQ Bacon Meatloaf came to life, taking a classic comfort food and giving it a delectable makeover. There’s something irresistible about the combination of smoky bacon and tangy barbecue sauce, creating a dish that not only satisfies the palate but also brings the family together around the dinner table. In just about an hour, you can whip up this juicy, flavor-packed loaf that’s perfect for a weeknight meal yet impressive enough for gatherings. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll never look at meatloaf the same way again. So grab your apron, and let’s turn those ordinary ingredients into something extraordinary!
Why will you love this BBQ Bacon Meatloaf?
Comforting Tradition: This meatloaf embodies classic comfort food, elevated with smoky bacon and zesty barbecue sauce.
Quick and Easy: With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, ensuring a hassle-free cooking experience.
Flavor Explosion: Each bite packs a punch, marrying rich bacon flavor with a tangy barbecue glaze for a delightful taste sensation.
Versatile Variations: Switch up the BBQ sauce or substitute meats for a custom twist that reflects your personal taste.
Family Favorite: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults alike, making it the perfect centerpiece for any family meal.
Leftover Potential: Enjoy the deliciousness the next day in sandwiches or as part of a new dish!
BBQ Bacon Meatloaf Ingredients
For the Meatloaf
• Thick-Cut Bacon – Adds a smoky flavor and rich texture; reserve the grease for the sauce.
• Ground Beef (80/20) – Provides the perfect balance of structure and moisture for the meatloaf.
• Quick Cook Oats – Acts as a binder for added hearty texture; can substitute with gluten-free oats if needed.
• Milk – Ensures the meatloaf stays moist while helping bind the ingredients together.
• Egg – Serves as a crucial binder to hold all ingredients together perfectly.
• Worcestershire Sauce – Enhances the umami flavor, bringing depth to the meatloaf.
• Garlic Powder – Adds a savory base note that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
• Onion Powder – Introduces a subtle sweetness and depth to the overall flavor.
• Kosher Salt – Boosts the meatloaf’s flavor, ensuring every bite is delicious.
For the Glaze
• BBQ Sauce (Sweet and Spicy) – Forms a mouthwatering glaze; feel free to substitute with your favorite BBQ sauce for different flavor profiles.
• Reserved Bacon Grease – Enhances the glaze with richness, making the BBQ flavor even more delightful.
How to Make BBQ Bacon Meatloaf
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Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with foil to make cleanup easy. Cook the thick-cut bacon for about 18 minutes, or until it’s crispy. Once cooked, chop the bacon and set aside 1 tablespoon of the grease for later use.
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Lower the oven temperature to 350°F. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped bacon, quick cook oats, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and kosher salt. Mix until everything is just combined; avoid overmixing for a tender meatloaf.
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Shape the mixture into a loaf on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure it’s evenly thick to promote uniform cooking.
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Mix the reserved bacon grease with your BBQ sauce in a separate bowl. Spread this delicious glaze generously over the top of the meatloaf, ensuring it’s well coated for an extra burst of flavor.
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Bake the meatloaf for 65-70 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. You’ll want it to be beautifully browned on top, and a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure it’s cooked through.
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Rest the meatloaf for 5 minutes after removing it from the oven. This step allows the juices to redistribute for optimal flavor and moisture. Then, slice and serve!
Optional: Drizzle a bit more BBQ sauce before serving for an added treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for BBQ Bacon Meatloaf
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Monitor Temperature: Always check the internal temperature of the BBQ Bacon Meatloaf with a meat thermometer. This ensures perfect doneness without drying it out.
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Avoid Overmixing: When combining ingredients, stir gently to keep the meatloaf tender. Overmixing can result in a dense texture rather than a juicy loaf.
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Rest Before Slicing: After baking, let the meatloaf rest for 5 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute, keeping each slice moist and flavorful.
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Customize Flavors: Experiment with different BBQ sauces for a unique twist! Sweet, spicy, or even homemade sauces can elevate your BBQ Bacon Meatloaf.
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Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the meatloaf mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to cook!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing BBQ Bacon Meatloaf ahead of time is a game-changer for busy weeknights! You can mix the meatloaf ingredients and shape it up to 24 hours in advance, covering it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerating to maintain freshness. If you prefer, the meatloaf can also be frozen uncooked for up to 3 months; just thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking. To prevent any moisture loss, be sure to use an airtight container or wrap. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply slather on your BBQ glaze and bake it from chilled, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time for perfectly juicy results. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll savor the delicious comfort of BBQ Bacon Meatloaf without any last-minute fuss!
BBQ Bacon Meatloaf Variations
Invite your creativity into the kitchen with these exciting twists that will elevate your BBQ Bacon Meatloaf experience!
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BBQ Sauce Swaps: Experiment with different BBQ sauces, like honey or chipotle, to bring unique sweetness or heat to your meatloaf.
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Pork Blend: Substitute half of the ground beef with ground pork for an extra layer of flavor and juiciness. This delightful mix can redefine your meatloaf!
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Veggie Boost: Add finely chopped bell peppers or grated zucchini to the mixture for more vegetables without sacrificing flavor. They’ll blend in beautifully!
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Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh herbs, like chopped parsley or thyme, to elevate the freshness and aromatic qualities of your meatloaf. A sprinkle of green makes everything better!
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Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free oats instead of regular quick cook oats to create a delicious gluten-free version that doesn’t compromise on taste.
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Spicy Kick: Mix in a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for an extra spicy punch that will warm you from the inside out.
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Cheesy Goodness: Fold in shredded cheese like cheddar or pepper jack into your meatloaf mixture for a melty surprise with every bite. Who can resist cheese?
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Low-Carb Option: Consider substituting oats with cauliflower rice or chickpea flour for a low-carb version that keeps the meatloaf moist and satisfying. Perfect for a guilt-free indulgence!
What to Serve with BBQ Bacon Meatloaf?
When it comes to creating a hearty meal, pairing is everything! Satisfy your family’s cravings with delightful sides that elevate the flavors of your meatloaf.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery, velvety texture balances the rich flavors of the meatloaf, creating a classic duo that warms the heart.
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Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet and smoky, this crunchy side brings a burst of freshness that complements the tangy BBQ sauce.
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Sautéed Brussels Sprouts: This crispy, caramelized veggie adds a lovely texture and earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the meatloaf.
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Garlic Bread: Crunchy and buttery, it makes for the perfect tool to soak up any remaining BBQ glaze on your plate.
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Coleslaw: A tangy, crunchy side that provides a refreshing contrast to the savory meatloaf, making every bite a delightful experience.
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Baked Beans: Their sweet, smoky essence harmonizes with the bacon and BBQ sauce, turning your dinner into a flavor-packed feast.
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Chilled Cucumber Salad: This light, crisp salad offers a refreshing palate cleanser, balancing the richness of the meatloaf beautifully.
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Red Wine: A full-bodied red wine enhances the delicious flavors while bringing a touch of sophistication to your meal.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: For dessert, these gooey treats add the perfect sweet finish to round out a comforting family dinner.
How to Store and Freeze BBQ Bacon Meatloaf
Fridge: Store leftover BBQ Bacon Meatloaf wrapped in plastic or aluminum foil for up to 2 days. Keeping it airtight helps retain moisture and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze slices of BBQ Bacon Meatloaf in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Make sure to layer parchment paper between slices to prevent sticking.
Reheating: To reheat, place the slices in a preheated oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but be cautious not to overcook, which can dry it out.
Sandwiches: Leftover meatloaf is perfect for making sandwiches. Slice it thin and add your favorite toppings for a delicious twist on lunchtime!
BBQ Bacon Meatloaf Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my ingredients are ripe or fresh?
Absolutely! For the thick-cut bacon, look for even pink color and avoid packages with dark spots. The ground beef should be bright red, with no brown discoloration. Fresh oats don’t have an expiration date if stored properly, but check for a pleasant nutty smell. When buying milk, ensure it’s within the sell-by date.
What’s the best way to store leftover BBQ Bacon Meatloaf?
Very simply! Store your leftover meatloaf wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil for up to 2 days in the fridge. This helps keep the moisture and flavor intact. For longer storage, consider freezing it.
Can I freeze BBQ Bacon Meatloaf?
Yes, you can! For freezing, slice the BBQ Bacon Meatloaf into portions and wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped slices into a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. It will last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat.
What if my meatloaf is too dry?
Don’t worry! If your BBQ Bacon Meatloaf turns out dry, it could be due to overcooking. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F without going over. If you find it dry after cooking, consider serving with extra BBQ sauce or a drizzle of gravy to add moisture and flavor. For next time, you might want to add a bit more milk or even some chopped veggies for added moisture!
Is BBQ Bacon Meatloaf safe for kids?
Absolutely! This BBQ Bacon Meatloaf is not only safe but also packed with flavors that kids usually love. However, be sure to adjust seasonings according to your child’s taste preferences and opt for a mild BBQ sauce if they prefer less spice. Additionally, if there are any allergies, make sure to use gluten-free oats and check BBQ sauce labels for any hidden allergens.
How can I customize the BBQ sauce for different flavors?
For a delightful twist, try mixing different BBQ sauces like honey BBQ for sweetness or adding a hint of chipotle sauce for smokiness and heat! You can even create your own sauce by combining ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, and your favorite spices. The more the merrier; feel free to experiment until you find your favorite flavor profile!
BBQ Bacon Meatloaf: A Comfort Food with Smoky Flavor Twist
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with foil. Cook the thick-cut bacon for about 18 minutes, or until crispy. Chop the bacon and set aside 1 tablespoon of the grease for later.
- Lower the oven temperature to 350°F. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped bacon, quick cook oats, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and kosher salt. Mix until just combined.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf on the prepared baking sheet.
- Mix the reserved bacon grease with your BBQ sauce in a separate bowl and spread over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake for 65-70 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, ensuring it’s beautifully browned on top.
- Rest the meatloaf for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.