Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf with Savory Meatloaf Sauce Recipe

If you’re craving a comforting, hearty main course that packs a flavorful punch, the Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf with Savory Meatloaf Sauce Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This crowd-pleaser combines juicy ground beef, a medley of fresh vegetables, and a perfectly spiced meatloaf sauce all wrapped in crispy, smoky bacon. Every bite offers a delightful contrast of textures and layers of savory, sweet, and tangy notes that will make you want seconds — and thirds. Trust me, this is a dish you’ll happily make again and again, becoming an instant classic in your recipe rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is the key to making this Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf with Savory Meatloaf Sauce Recipe sing. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, whether it’s adding moisture, richness, texture, or a burst of flavor. Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand to create this unforgettable dish.

• Ground Beef: The base of your meatloaf providing juicy, rich flavor and protein.
• Onion, Celery, Carrot, Green Pepper: These finely chopped veggies bring a wonderful freshness and subtle sweetness.
• Egg: Acts as a binder to keep the meatloaf tender and together during baking.
• Breadcrumbs: Help absorb moisture and add a light texture so your meatloaf stays perfectly firm but juicy.
• Fresh Parsley: Introduces a bright, herbaceous note that enhances all the savory flavors.
• Prepared Mustard: Adds a hint of tanginess that deepens the overall flavor.
• Italian Seasoning & Paprika: Spice blends that give the meatloaf its inviting aroma and warm undertones.
• Salt: Essential for balancing and bringing all the flavors together.
• Bacon: Wraps the meatloaf with smoky, crispy goodness that takes this dish to the next level.
• Your Favorite Meatloaf Sauce, Tomato Paste, Hot Water, Worcestershire Sauce, Apricot Preserves, Honey: These combine into the signature savory, slightly sweet meatloaf sauce that perfectly complements the smoky bacon and hearty meat.

How to Make Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf with Savory Meatloaf Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Meat Mixture

Start by placing the ground beef, finely chopped onion, celery, carrot, green pepper, egg, breadcrumbs, fresh parsley, prepared mustard, Italian seasoning, paprika, and salt in a large bowl. Mix it all together very well to ensure the flavors are distributed evenly and the texture comes out just right. This mix is the foundation of your meatloaf, so take a moment to get it thoroughly combined.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 350°F. A consistent, moderate temperature is perfect for cooking the meatloaf evenly without drying it out, allowing the bacon to crisp up beautifully on top.

Step 3: Shape the Loaf

Lightly oil a sheet pan to keep your meatloaf from sticking. Transfer the meat mixture onto the pan and shape it into a firm loaf. This shape will help it cook evenly and hold that classic meatloaf form while baking.

Step 4: Wrap with Bacon

Lay the bacon slices over the top of the shaped meatloaf, allowing them to overlap slightly to create a secure bacon blanket. The bacon not only infuses its smoky flavor but also locks in moisture, keeping the meatloaf incredibly juicy.

Step 5: Add the First Layer of Meatloaf Sauce

Spread about one-third of your prepared meatloaf sauce evenly over the bacon-wrapped meatloaf. This sauce is a beautiful balance of savory, sweet, and tangy and will start to caramelize during baking.

Step 6: Bake and Add Sauce Midway

Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for 30 minutes. After this time, carefully spread another one-third of the sauce on top. This layering step ensures the sauce seeps deeper into the bacon and meat, enhancing every bite.

Step 7: Continue Baking

Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 20 to 30 minutes. You want the bacon to get golden brown and the meat to be cooked all the way through, juicy, and flavorful.

Step 8: Final Sauce Layer and Resting

Remove the meatloaf from the oven and immediately spread the remaining sauce over the top. Let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. Resting helps redistribute the juices so each slice is tender and moist.

Step 9: Prepare Your Savory Meatloaf Sauce

While the meatloaf bakes, stir together your favorite meatloaf sauce, tomato paste, hot water, Worcestershire sauce, apricot preserves, honey, and a pinch of salt until smooth. This mix is what gives the dish its unforgettable savory depth and just a touch of sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the smoky bacon.

How to Serve Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf with Savory Meatloaf Sauce Recipe

Garnishes

Simple garnishes like freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of chopped green onions add a burst of color and a bright herbal note that balances richness. Don’t underestimate the power of a fresh garnish to make each serving more inviting and vibrant!

Side Dishes

This Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf with Savory Meatloaf Sauce Recipe pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted seasonal vegetables, or a crisp green salad. Each side helps balance the bold flavors and creates a comforting, well-rounded meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving mini meatloaves individually wrapped in bacon for parties, or slice this meatloaf thick and place it on toasted sandwich buns with a dollop of sauce for an indulgent meatloaf sandwich experience. The versatility of this recipe means you can get creative and impress family or guests every time!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftover bacon-wrapped meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Wrapping it well helps retain moisture, so those delicious flavors don’t fade.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked meatloaf by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It will keep well for up to 3 months—perfect for making ahead or meal prepping for busy weeks.

Reheating

The best way to reheat leftover meatloaf is in the oven at 325°F, covered loosely with foil to keep it from drying out. Heat until warmed through, about 15 to 20 minutes depending on thickness, to preserve its juiciness and the delicious bacon crust.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be a lighter alternative, but since they tend to be leaner, you might want to add a little olive oil or an extra egg to keep the meatloaf moist and tender.

What type of bacon works best?

Traditional smoked bacon adds the best texture and flavor, but feel free to experiment with thick-cut for extra chewiness or turkey bacon if you want a leaner version. Just keep in mind the cooking times may vary slightly.

Is it necessary to wrap the meatloaf with bacon?

The bacon adds a wonderful smoky flavor and crispy texture, but if you’re not a fan or need to avoid pork, you can bake the meatloaf without it and still enjoy a delicious, moist loaf. Just brush more of the meatloaf sauce on top before baking.

Can I make the meatloaf sauce ahead of time?

Yes! The meatloaf sauce can be prepared ahead and stored in the fridge for a few days or frozen. Making it in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully, which actually makes the final dish taste even better.

How do I know when the meatloaf is cooked through?

The safest way is to use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 160°F. The bacon should be browned and slightly crispy, and the meatloaf should feel firm to the touch.

Final Thoughts

This Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf with Savory Meatloaf Sauce Recipe is everything you want in a comforting home-cooked meal—rich, flavorful, and utterly satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for your family or impressing friends, this recipe will quickly become a favorite. Go ahead, give it a try and enjoy the delicious warmth and joy it brings to your table!

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