There’s just something about the first sizzle of bacon that makes my heart flutter and my kitchen come alive. Recently, while reminiscing over comfort food classics, I found myself whisked away to a creamy, smoky BBQ Bacon Meatloaf that had my family raving at the dinner table. The luscious combination of tender ground beef, sweet barbecue sauce, and crispy bacon isn’t just a twist on a traditional dish—it’s a revelation that transforms your weeknight meals into a feast.
This recipe not only delivers unmatched flavor but also keeps prep simple, so you can enjoy quality time with loved ones while the magic happens in the oven. In about an hour, you’ll have a juicy meatloaf that’s perfect for slicing and serving with all your favorite sides. If you’re ready to elevate your comfort food game and say goodbye to bland takeout, grab your apron and let’s get started!
Why is BBQ Bacon Meatloaf a must-try?
Flavor Explosion: The BBQ Bacon Meatloaf is a savory showstopper that infuses smoky bacon and tangy barbecue sauce into a classic dish.
Time-Saving Delight: With straightforward steps, you can have this gourmet comfort food on the table in about an hour.
Versatile Pairing: This meatloaf is a perfect canvas—serve it with mashed potatoes, grilled corn, or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a get-together with friends, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy.
Creative Variations: Don’t hesitate to mix it up! Try different BBQ sauces or add veggies for an extra punch, making it your own.
BBQ Bacon Meatloaf Ingredients
For the Loaf
- Bacon – Adds rich flavor and moisture; use thick-cut bacon for best results.
- Ground Beef – Provides the main protein; 80/20 beef is recommended for juiciness.
- Quick Cook Oats – Acts as a binder that helps retain moisture; substitute with breadcrumbs if necessary.
- Milk – Adds moisture to the meat mixture; can be substituted with a plant-based milk.
- Egg – Binds the ingredients together; use a flax egg for a vegan option.
- Worcestershire Sauce – Enhances umami flavor; a must-have for depth in your BBQ Bacon Meatloaf.
- Garlic Powder – Adds savory depth; substitute with fresh minced garlic if preferred.
- Onion Powder – Provides a mild onion flavor; freshly diced onions can be used as an alternative.
- Kosher Salt – Seasoning for enhancing flavors; adjust according to taste.
For the Glaze
- Barbecue Sauce – Acts as a glaze and flavor enhancer; choose a favorite brand or homemade version.
- Reserved Bacon Grease – Used in the sauce for added flavor; can substitute with olive oil.
How to Make BBQ Bacon Meatloaf
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Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the bacon, which adds incredible flavor to your meatloaf.
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Cook Bacon: Arrange the bacon strips on a foil-lined baking sheet and bake for about 18-22 minutes. Keep an eye on them to ensure they reach that perfect crispiness without burning.
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Prepare Meatloaf Mixture: Once the bacon is done, reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, chopped bacon, quick oats, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, and kosher salt until well combined.
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Shape Loaf: Transfer the meat mixture onto a lined baking sheet and shape it into a loaf form. Make sure it’s even on all sides for consistent cooking.
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Glaze Meatloaf: In a small bowl, mix your favorite barbecue sauce with 1 tablespoon of warm bacon grease for an extra kick of flavor. Brush this delicious glaze over the loaf generously, ensuring it’s fully covered.
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Bake: Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for 65-70 minutes. Check it’s done by ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
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Rest and Serve: After baking, let the meatloaf rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This will keep it juicy. Serve with additional BBQ sauce on the side for those who love extra flavor.
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These BBQ Bacon Meatloaf preparations are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can mix the meatloaf ingredients, form the loaf, and refrigerate it up to 24 hours in advance. To maintain quality, cover it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying out. Alternatively, you can also bake the meatloaf fully, let it cool, and refrigerate the leftovers for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through (about 20-30 minutes). These make-ahead tips will ensure your BBQ Bacon Meatloaf remains just as delicious as when freshly made!
Expert Tips for BBQ Bacon Meatloaf
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Perfect Bacon Crispiness: Bake bacon until evenly crispy to ensure it adds the right texture and flavor to your BBQ Bacon Meatloaf.
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Moisture Retention: Allow the meatloaf to rest for at least 5 minutes after baking; this step helps in retaining juices for a tender bite.
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Using a Meat Thermometer: To avoid overcooking, use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
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Double the Recipe: When doubling the recipe, ensure to space out loaves on a large baking sheet for even cooking. Adjust the cooking time based on thickness.
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Customize Your Glaze: Feel free to experiment with different barbecue sauces to personalize your BBQ Bacon Meatloaf; try sweet, tangy, or spicy options.
What to Serve with BBQ Bacon Meatloaf?
Creating the perfect meal around your meatloaf is all about blending complementary flavors and textures.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The rich, buttery taste pairs beautifully with the smoky meatloaf, making each bite a comforting delight.
- Savory Grilled Corn: Charred corn adds a burst of sweetness, balancing the smoky flavors and enhancing the overall experience.
- Sautéed Brussels Sprouts: Their slight bitterness and crunchy texture contrast wonderfully with the tender meatloaf, creating a lovely balance.
- Zesty Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad with a tangy dressing cuts through the richness, cleansing your palate with each bite.
- Roasted Asparagus: With its earthy flavor, roasted asparagus makes for an elegant side that complements the hearty meatloaf.
- Simple Garlic Bread: This classic option is always a hit; it’s perfect for mopping up any remaining BBQ sauce on your plate.
- Sweet Iced Tea: A chilled glass of sweet tea pairs perfectly, offering a refreshing counterpoint to the hearty comfort of the meatloaf.
- Chocolate Pudding Cups: For dessert, these rich, silky treats provide a delightful sweet ending after a savory meal.
- Apple Crisp: This warm dessert adds a comforting touch, with its cinnamon-spiced apples harmonizing beautifully with the savory meatloaf.
BBQ Bacon Meatloaf Variations
Get ready to transform your meatloaf into something uniquely yours with these delicious ideas!
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the meat mixture for an extra layer of heat. It’s a fun surprise for those who love a kick!
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Cheesy Delight: Mix in shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese for a creamy texture and rich flavor. The melted cheese brings comfort food to a whole new level.
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Turkey Swap: Substitute ground turkey for a lighter version that’s still packed with flavor. You’ll enjoy a healthier twist without sacrificing the beloved taste!
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Veggie Boost: Incorporate finely chopped zucchini or grated carrots into the loaf for added nutrition and moisture. These veggies meld beautifully without altering the flavor.
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Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can brighten the flavors of your meatloaf. Simply fold them into the meat mixture for lovely, aromatic notes.
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BBQ Sauce Variety: Experiment with different BBQ sauces, like honey mustard or apple cider vinegar-based, to give your meatloaf a whole new personality. Each sauce will create a unique flavor profile!
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Sweet Pop: Add a tablespoon of brown sugar to the glaze for a sweet caramelization. This will contrast perfectly with the savory bacon and enhance the BBQ flavor.
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Bacon-Wrapped: For the ultimate indulgence, wrap the meatloaf with additional strips of bacon before baking. This creates a crispy, flavorful exterior that’s hard to resist!
Storage Tips for BBQ Bacon Meatloaf
Fridge: Store leftover BBQ Bacon Meatloaf in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For long-term storage, wrap the meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-30 minutes, to keep it juicy.
Sandwich Delight: Leftovers make fantastic sandwiches! Slice the meatloaf and layer it on your favorite bread with more BBQ sauce for a delicious lunch option.
BBQ Bacon Meatloaf Recipe FAQs
What kind of bacon is best for BBQ Bacon Meatloaf?
I highly recommend using thick-cut bacon for this recipe! The extra thickness not only offers a richer flavor but also provides the right texture that complements the meatloaf beautifully.
How long can I store leftover BBQ Bacon Meatloaf?
Leftover BBQ Bacon Meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it is completely cooled before sealing to keep it fresh and flavorful for your next meal!
Can I freeze BBQ Bacon Meatloaf?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, which usually takes around 20-30 minutes.
What should I do if my meatloaf is too dry or crumbly?
If your BBQ Bacon Meatloaf turns out dry, it might be due to overcooking or not enough binding ingredients. In the future, ensure to use an 80/20 ground beef mixture for just the right fat content. To rescue an already cooked meatloaf, try drizzling some beef broth or additional BBQ sauce on top before serving to add moisture back into it.
Can I make BBQ Bacon Meatloaf gluten-free?
Certainly! You can easily make this dish gluten-free by substituting quick-cook oats with gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats. Just ensure all your other ingredients, like barbecue sauce, are labeled gluten-free as well!
Is BBQ Bacon Meatloaf safe for pets?
While BBQ Bacon Meatloaf is delicious for humans, it’s not ideal for pets, especially due to the seasoning and garlic contained in the recipe. If you want to share a treat with your furry friends, set aside some plain cooked beef without the seasoning!
Savor BBQ Bacon Meatloaf for a Comfort Food Upgrade
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Arrange the bacon strips on a foil-lined baking sheet and bake for about 18-22 minutes until crispy.
- Once the bacon is done, reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, chopped bacon, quick oats, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, and kosher salt until well combined.
- Transfer the meat mixture onto a lined baking sheet and shape it into a loaf form.
- In a small bowl, mix your barbecue sauce with 1 tablespoon of warm bacon grease. Brush this glaze over the loaf generously.
- Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for 65-70 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let the meatloaf rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with additional BBQ sauce on the side.