There’s something utterly comforting about the smell of bacon sizzling in the oven, a fragrant invitation that signals good things are on the way. That’s the essence of my BBQ Bacon Meatloaf, a dish that takes a traditional family favorite and kicks it up a notch with rich, smoky flavors and a sweet-tangy glaze.
Picture this: a perfectly browned loaf emerging from the oven, its caramelized exterior glistening under the kitchen lights. Each slice reveals a moist, juicy center packed with flavor, bringing joy to weeknight dinners and casual gatherings alike.
What I love about this meatloaf is how effortlessly it comes together, making it a go-to recipe for busy evenings. With just a few simple ingredients and about an hour, you can create a hearty meal that feels special but won’t overwhelm your schedule. So, if you’re ready to break away from fast food and indulge in some homemade comfort, let’s dive into this easy BBQ Bacon Meatloaf recipe that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table.
Why is BBQ Bacon Meatloaf a must-try?
BBQ Bacon Meatloaf brings a delightful twist to a classic comfort dish, making it perfect for family dinners.
- Juicy & Flavorful: Thanks to the combination of bacon and BBQ sauce, each bite bursts with rich taste.
- Easy to Make: With only a few simple ingredients, this recipe is a breeze, even for busy weeknights.
- Crowd-Pleasing: It’s a dish your whole family will love, making dinner time enjoyable for everyone.
- Versatile Options: Feel free to experiment with different BBQ sauces or add veggies to customize your creation.
- Perfect Leftovers: Enjoy meatloaf sandwiches the next day or freeze for a future meal.
This is the ultimate comfort food delight that’s sure to leave everyone asking for seconds!
BBQ Bacon Meatloaf Ingredients
For the Meatloaf
• Thick-Cut Bacon – Adds smokiness and richness; reserve grease for the sauce.
• Ground Beef – Provides structure and protein; 80/20 blend recommended for juiciness and flavor.
• Quick Cook Oats – Acts as a binder and adds texture; can be swapped with breadcrumbs if desired.
• Milk – Adds moisture and a tender texture to the loaf.
• Egg – Binds all ingredients together for a cohesive meatloaf.
• Worcestershire Sauce – Enhances depth of flavor; substitute with soy sauce if you want a different umami kick.
• Garlic Powder – Gives a savory flavor; fresh minced garlic can be used for a more robust taste.
• Onion Powder – Contributes sweetness and depth; fresh onion can be used, adjusting moisture as needed.
• Kosher Salt – Elevates the overall flavor profile of the meatloaf.
For the Glaze
• Sweet and Spicy BBQ Sauce – The key flavoring and glaze; choose based on your preference for a delicious BBQ Bacon Meatloaf experience!
How to Make BBQ Bacon Meatloaf
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Preheat Oven: Before you start mixing ingredients, preheat your oven to 400°F. This ensures your meatloaf cooks evenly right from the beginning.
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Cook Bacon: Arrange thick-cut bacon on a foil-lined baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until it’s crispy. Don’t forget to reserve 1 tablespoon of bacon grease for the glaze!
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Prepare Meatloaf Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, the chopped crispy bacon, quick-cook oats, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Mix with your hands or a wooden spoon until everything is well blended and the mixture feels cohesive.
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Form & Glaze: Shape the meat mixture into a loaf on the same foil-lined baking sheet. In a small bowl, mix the BBQ sauce with the reserved bacon grease, then coat the meatloaf evenly with this tantalizing mixture.
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Bake: Lower the oven temperature to 350°F and bake the meatloaf for about 65-70 minutes. It’s done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Your kitchen will smell divine!
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Rest & Serve: Once baked, let the meatloaf rest for about 5 minutes before slicing into it. Serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping.
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze BBQ Bacon Meatloaf
- Fridge: Store leftover BBQ Bacon Meatloaf in an airtight container for up to 2 days. This keeps it fresh and ready for delicious meatloaf sandwiches!
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the meatloaf either raw or fully cooked. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through, approximately 20-25 minutes.
- Make-Ahead: Mix the meatloaf ingredients a day in advance and store in the fridge. This allows flavors to develop and makes for quick baking on busy nights!
Expert Tips for BBQ Bacon Meatloaf
- Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the BBQ Bacon Meatloaf reaches 165°F for safe consumption and optimal juiciness.
- Resting Time: Allow the meatloaf to rest for 5 minutes before slicing to retain its juices and avoid a crumbly texture.
- Bacon Grease Magic: Don’t skip on reserving and using the bacon grease in the glaze; it adds a depth of flavor that enhances the whole dish!
- Ingredient Swaps: If you’re out of quick cook oats, feel free to use breadcrumbs. Just adjust the moisture slightly to maintain the right texture.
- Make Ahead: Consider preparing the meatloaf mixture a day in advance; it allows the flavors to meld beautifully and makes weeknight cooking even easier.
- Customization: Experiment with different BBQ sauces for your own unique take; try honey BBQ for sweetness or spicy BBQ for some heat!
Make Ahead Options
This BBQ Bacon Meatloaf is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture and shape it into a loaf up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. To maintain its quality, be sure to store it in an airtight container or wrap it well to prevent any odors from other foods in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and add your BBQ glaze before popping it in the oven. After baking, you can enjoy delicious leftovers for up to 3 days, making this recipe not only a time-saver but an excellent choice for getting ahead in the kitchen!
What to Serve with BBQ Bacon Meatloaf?
Elevate your family dinner with delightful sides that perfectly complement the rich flavors of this smoky, tangy meatloaf.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These velvety potatoes provide a comforting texture that balances the meatloaf’s juiciness and enhances every bite.
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Grilled Corn on the Cob: The sweetness and slight char of grilled corn add a fresh, vibrant contrast to the savory notes of the BBQ Bacon Meatloaf.
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Sautéed Brussels Sprouts: Their earthy flavor and crispy edges bring a nutritious crunch, making them a fantastic accompaniment to this hearty dish.
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Coleslaw: A tangy, crunchy coleslaw offers a refreshing crunch that complements the meatloaf’s rich glaze and enhances the overall dining experience.
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Garlic Bread: Crisp, buttery garlic bread serves as a delightful vehicle for savoring any extra BBQ sauce, enhancing the meal’s flavor profile.
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Cornbread Muffins: The sweet and slightly crumbly texture of cornbread muffins pairs wonderfully, soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate.
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Green Salad with Vinaigrette: A light, tangy salad brings bright, fresh flavors to the table, balancing the richness of the meatloaf beautifully.
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Iced Tea or Lemonade: Sipping on a cold beverage like iced tea or fresh lemonade can help cleanse the palate after each savory bite.
Each of these pairings brings something special to your BBQ Bacon Meatloaf dinner, ensuring your meal is both satisfying and memorable.
BBQ Bacon Meatloaf Variations
Make this recipe your own with delightful twists that add personal flair and accommodate dietary preferences!
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Ground Chicken: Substitute ground beef with ground chicken for a lighter option, maintaining juiciness with added moisture.
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Vegetarian Delight: Swap the meat for lentils and mushrooms, seasoned well, to create a savory meatless version that everyone will enjoy.
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Spicy Twist: Add chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the meat mixture for an exciting kick that brings the heat.
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Extra Veggies: Mix in shredded zucchini or carrots for added moisture and nutrition, creating a deliciously wholesome meatloaf.
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Sweet Glaze: Try using a maple BBQ sauce instead of sweet and spicy for a uniquely sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with the bacon.
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Cheesy Addition: Fold in shredded cheese like cheddar or pepper jack into the meat mixture for an ooey-gooey center that melts in your mouth.
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Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or thyme into the mixture for an aromatic burst that elevates the overall flavor.
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Nutty Crunch: Add crushed walnuts or pecans for an unexpected crunch and nutty flavor, enhancing the texture and heartiness of the meatloaf.
BBQ Bacon Meatloaf Recipe FAQs
What type of bacon should I use for BBQ Bacon Meatloaf?
Absolutely! For the BBQ Bacon Meatloaf, thick-cut bacon is the best choice as it adds rich smokiness and a hearty texture. The crispy bacon pieces mix beautifully with the ground beef, creating a flavor-packed loaf. If you’re feeling adventurous, try different kinds of bacon, like applewood-smoked, for an extra layer of taste!
How should I store leftover BBQ Bacon Meatloaf?
Very easy! Leftover BBQ Bacon Meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in the oven or microwave. It’s also fantastic for meatloaf sandwiches the next day, adding a delicious twist to your lunch!
Can I freeze BBQ Bacon Meatloaf?
Of course! You can freeze BBQ Bacon Meatloaf both raw and cooked. To freeze it raw, shape it into a loaf, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. It keeps well for up to 3 months. For cooking later, thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking. If you’ve made it already, slice it up and freeze individual pieces for easy, reheatable meals!
How do I prevent my meatloaf from being dry?
A great question! To avoid dry meatloaf, ensure you don’t overmix the ingredients, as this can compact the meat and lead to a tough texture. Additionally, the addition of milk, bacon, and the Worcestershire sauce helps to keep it moist. Using an 80/20 ground beef blend also strikes the perfect balance between flavor and juiciness. Remember to let the loaf rest after baking to retain the moisture.
What if someone in my family has dietary restrictions?
Absolutely, it’s important to consider everyone! If you have a dietary restriction, like gluten intolerance, you can substitute quick-cook oats with certified gluten-free oats or use gluten-free breadcrumbs. For milk allergies, any plant-based milk can work perfectly as a substitute. Keep in mind to read labels on your BBQ sauce to ensure it meets dietary needs!
How can I customize my BBQ Bacon Meatloaf?
The more, the merrier! There are so many ways to make your BBQ Bacon Meatloaf unique. You can swap out the ground beef for a mix of ground pork for a different flavor profile. Additionally, choose your favorite type of BBQ sauce—honey BBQ for sweet notes or chipotle BBQ for a spicy kick. For added nutrition, incorporate finely grated vegetables like zucchini or carrots into the mixture for extra moisture and nutrients!
BBQ Bacon Meatloaf: The Ultimate Comfort Food Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F.
- Arrange thick-cut bacon on a foil-lined baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes until crispy. Reserve 1 tablespoon of bacon grease.
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, chopped crispy bacon, quick-cook oats, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Mix until well blended.
- Shape the meat mixture into a loaf on the foil-lined baking sheet. Mix BBQ sauce with reserved bacon grease, then coat the meatloaf.
- Lower the oven temperature to 350°F and bake for 65-70 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Let the meatloaf rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with extra BBQ sauce.