Introduction:
This hearty meatloaf is a flavor-packed twist on a classic dish. Layers of crispy bacon, creamy cheese, tender potatoes, and seasoned ground meat come together to create a comforting, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Its rustic presentation makes it as beautiful as it is delicious!
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
- 500g ground beef or pork
- 1 cup potatoes, finely diced (parboiled)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- 6–8 slices of bacon, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, parboiled potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Assemble the Meatloaf:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Line a loaf pan with parchment paper for easy removal, or grease the pan well.
- Transfer the meatloaf mixture into the pan, pressing it down to shape it evenly.
- Add the Bacon Topping:
- Scatter the chopped bacon pieces evenly over the top of the meatloaf, ensuring full coverage for crispy results.
- Bake the Meatloaf:
- Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F).
- If the bacon isn’t crispy enough, broil the meatloaf for an additional 2–3 minutes.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Allow the meatloaf to rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm with your favorite side dishes like a green salad or roasted vegetables.
This cheesy bacon and potato meatloaf is a crowd-pleaser that combines simple ingredients into a masterpiece. Enjoy every savory bite!
