Message Bacon Mushroom Swiss Cheese Meatloaf

Instructions for Making Bacon Mushroom Swiss Cheese Meatloaf

Step 1: Prepare the Bacon and Mushrooms

1. Cook the bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it becomes crispy. Remove the bacon from the pan and set it aside, leaving a little bacon fat in the skillet for cooking the mushrooms.
2. Sauté the mushrooms: Add the finely chopped mushrooms to the same skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until they release their moisture and become tender. Add the butter if needed. Set the mushrooms aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Make the Meatloaf Mixture

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and thyme. Mix everything together until well combined, being careful not to overmix.
3. Stir in the cooked bacon and sautéed mushrooms into the meat mixture.
4. Fold in the shredded Swiss cheese, ensuring it’s evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Step 3: Shape and Bake the Meatloaf

1. Transfer the meat mixture into a loaf pan and shape it into a uniform loaf, or form it by hand on a baking sheet for a rustic look.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Brush this mixture over the top of the meatloaf to create a sweet and tangy glaze.
3. Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the meatloaf is cooked through. If you like a crispier top, you can broil the meatloaf for the last 5 minutes of cooking.

Step 4: Rest and Serve

1. Once done, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender meatloaf.
2. Slice and serve hot. The meatloaf pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple side salad.

Why You’ll Love This Bacon Mushroom Swiss Cheese Meatloaf

• Flavor-packed: The combination of smoky bacon, earthy mushrooms, and creamy Swiss cheese makes each bite irresistible. The savory filling brings a whole new level of flavor to the dish.
• Moist and tender: The addition of pork and breadcrumbs soaked in milk helps keep the meatloaf tender and juicy, while the mushrooms add extra moisture.
• Cheesy goodness: Swiss cheese melts beautifully into the meatloaf, creating pockets of cheesy goodness throughout the loaf.
• Perfectly balanced: The sweet and tangy ketchup topping balances the savory richness of the meatloaf, providing the perfect contrast.

Variations and Tips

• Use different cheese: If you prefer a stronger cheese, try Gruyère or cheddar. These cheeses also melt well and provide a different flavor profile.
• Make it spicier: Add some finely chopped jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat mixture for an extra kick.
• Use lean meat: If you want to reduce the fat content, you can use lean ground turkey or chicken, though the texture and flavor may differ.
• Meal prep friendly: This meatloaf can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for 3-4 days. It also freezes well—just wrap it tightly in foil and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

This Bacon Mushroom Swiss Cheese Meatloaf is a delicious and satisfying twist on a traditional favorite. With the smoky bacon, tender mushrooms, and creamy Swiss cheese, it’s a dish that combines comfort with sophistication. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this meatloaf is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Give it a try and enjoy a flavorful, juicy meatloaf like you’ve never had before!