Mini BBQ Bacon Cheddar Meatloaf for Quick Comfort Cooking

Mini BBQ Bacon Cheddar Meatloaf is a quick and delicious comfort meal that transforms the classic dish into individual servings, combining smoky flavors and melty cheese.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 25

Resting Time 5

Total Time 45

Servings: 8 loaves

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 300

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Meat Mixture

1 lb Lean Ground Beef Substitute with ground turkey for a lighter option.
6 slices Thick Bacon Turkey bacon can be used for a healthier twist.
1 cup Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese Pepper jack can be used for extra spiciness.
1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs Regular breadcrumbs work as a substitute.
2 Large Eggs Flax eggs can be used for a vegan alternative.

For the Flavor Boosters

1/2 cup Chili Sauce Ketchup can be substituted if needed.
1 tsp Onion Powder Fresh sautéed onions can be used for a fresher taste.
1 tsp Granulated Garlic Use freshly minced garlic for more flavor.
1 tsp Seasoned Salt Use regular salt with caution—reduce the amount.
1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce Soy sauce can be used as an alternative.
1 tbsp Yellow Mustard Dijon mustard provides a richer taste.

For the Topping

1/2 cup Prepared BBQ Sauce Homemade BBQ sauce can enhance flavors.

Equipment

Skillet
Mixing Bowl
Baking Sheet
parchment paper

Method

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C).
Cook the thick bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 8-10 minutes. Remove and crumble.
In a mixing bowl, combine lean ground beef, crumbled bacon, chili sauce, cheddar cheese, panko breadcrumbs, eggs, onion powder, seasoned salt, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard. Mix gently.
Divide the meat mixture into 8 portions and shape into 2-inch tall loaves on a baking sheet.
Press a slight depression in each meatloaf for the sauce.
Brush BBQ sauce over each mini meatloaf to coat.
Bake for 25 minutes until firm and browned.
Switch to broil for an additional 2-5 minutes for crispiness, watching closely.
Let the meatloaves rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1loafCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 20gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 1gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 300IUCalcium: 150mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Avoid over-mixing the meat to keep it tender. Customizing BBQ sauces can enhance the flavor of your meatloaves.

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