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Mini BBQ Bacon Cheddar Meatloaf

Mini BBQ Bacon Cheddar Meatloaf: Easy, Flavor-Packed Comfort

Discover the Mini BBQ Bacon Cheddar Meatloaf, a hearty and delicious dish perfect for family dinners.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 8 meatloaves
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meatloaf
  • 1 lb Lean Ground Beef Can use ground turkey for a lighter option.
  • 1/2 cup Chili Sauce Heinz chili sauce recommended or BBQ sauce.
  • 6 slices Thick Bacon Turkey bacon is a lower-fat option.
  • 1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese Any melting cheese or cheddar blend can substitute.
  • 1/2 cup Panko Breadcrumbs Regular breadcrumbs can be used but may affect texture.
  • 2 large Eggs Flaxseed meal mixed with water can serve as a vegan alternative.
  • 1 tsp Onion Powder Fresh chopped onion can be used in smaller amounts.
  • 1 tsp Seasoned Salt Regular salt is fine but optional herbs can enhance flavor.
  • 1 tsp Granulated Garlic Fresh minced garlic can be used with careful adjustments.
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce Don’t skip for a richer taste!
  • 1 tbsp Yellow Mustard Dijon mustard can be a spicier alternative.
  • 1/2 cup Prepared BBQ Sauce Use your favorite store brand or homemade.
To Serve
  • 2 cups Sweet Potato Fries Perfectly complements the savory meatloaf.
  • 1 cup Fresh Salad Add a refreshing crunch alongside your main.
  • 2 cups Roasted Vegetables Balanced warmth and flavor round out the meal beautifully.

Equipment

  • Oven
  • skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Baking sheet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Mini BBQ Bacon Cheddar Meatloaf
  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. In a medium skillet over medium heat, cook the thick bacon until crispy, about 5–7 minutes, then chop into small pieces.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the lean ground beef, cooked bacon, chili sauce, panko breadcrumbs, eggs, onion powder, seasoned salt, granulated garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and yellow mustard. Mix gently until just combined.
  4. Divide the meat mixture into 8 equal portions and shape each into individual meatloaves, roughly 3–4 inches long. Make a small dent in the center of each loaf for even cooking.
  5. Generously brush the top of each mini meatloaf with prepared BBQ sauce.
  6. Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes.
  7. Switch your oven to broil and let the meatloaf cook for an additional 2–5 minutes to caramelize the BBQ sauce.
  8. Remove the mini meatloaves from the oven and let them rest for about 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1meatloafCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 16gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 120IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Do not overmix to keep the meatloaf tender and juicy. Monitor bake time to avoid dryness.

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