Y'all. This meatloaf is life changing. You may think that sounds dramatic but I mean it. Bacon + garlic + fresh herbs topped with a brown sugar glaze (that caramelizes while cooking). So. Good. I am picky about meatloaf too... and not many can rival what I ate growing up... but THIS one wins for me (sorry Mom & Nanny). It is the meatloaf of all meatloaves. Go make you some and get back to me with your review!
What You Will Need:
1 ½ pounds ground beef (I used 80/20)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small sweet onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp each fresh: thyme and parsley, chopped (1 tsp of each if using dried)
1 cup garlic & herb bread crumbs (you can use plain if preferred - these just add more flavor)
1 large egg
3 tsp Worcestershire sauce, divided
¾ cup milk
6 pieces thick-cut, applewood smoked bacon (I like Smithfield or Wright brands)
½ cup ketchup
2 tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp dijon mustard
toothpicks for assembly
Directions
Set oven to 350°
Step One
In a small sauté pan, heat oil over medium-high heat. Sauté onion for 3-4 minutes, or until slightly translucent. Add in garlic and saute an additional minute. Set aside.
Step Two
At this point, I usually let my KitchenAid stand mixer do the work for me (because why not). Or you can use your hands. Whatevs your feeling. Just mix everything from the beef down to the milk together, including the cooked onion/garlic mixture + only 2 tsp of the Worcestershire.
Step Three
Divide into six equal parts, and shape into mini loaves. Wrap a piece of bacon around the diameter of the meatloaves (the meatloaves should be about as thick as the piece of bacon is wide), securing with a toothpick where the ends meet. Place on a foil-lined baking sheet and set aside.
Step Four
In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining ingredients (don't forget that last tsp of Worcestershire). Coat the tops of each meatloaf. Bake for about an hour and 10 minutes, or until set. Let cool for at least 10 minutes before eating so they don't crumble completely apart.
And this is probably obvious, but it is kind of a requirement to serve this yummy meatloaf alongside some creamy mashed potatoes. I also added a side of sautéd zucchini and corn for good measure.
Enjoy, y'all! xo
