🥩 Cheesy Bacon-Topped Meatloaf
🕒 Total Time:
1 hour 10 minutes
(10 min prep + 1 hr bake)
🍴 Servings:
6–8 servings
🧂 Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
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2 lb (900 g) ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
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½ lb (225 g) ground pork (optional, adds moisture)
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2 large eggs
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1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella
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¼ cup grated Parmesan
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2 tbsp heavy cream or sour cream (optional for tenderness)
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1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
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1 tsp black pepper
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1 tsp garlic powder (optional)
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1 tsp onion powder (optional)
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Optional: 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (omit for strict carnivore)
For the Topping:
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6–8 slices thick-cut bacon
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½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend)
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Preheat Oven
Set oven to 375°F (190°C).
Line a loaf pan or baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Meatloaf
In a large bowl, combine:
ground beef, pork (if using), eggs, cheese, Parmesan, cream, salt, pepper, and seasonings.
Mix by hand until evenly combined — don’t overmix, or it can get tough.
3. Shape the Loaf
Form the mixture into a loaf shape on your pan.
(You can press it gently into a loaf pan, or shape it free-form on a baking sheet.)
4. Add the Bacon
Lay bacon slices over the top, slightly overlapping to cover the entire surface.
Press lightly so they adhere.
5. Bake
Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
If the bacon hasn’t crisped fully, broil for 3–5 minutes at the end.
6. Add the Cheese Topping
Sprinkle shredded cheese over the hot loaf.
Return to the oven for 5 minutes until melted and bubbly.
7. Rest & Serve
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
This helps it stay juicy and hold together.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
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Serve with a side of scrambled eggs, fried mushrooms, or a dollop of sour cream.
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For a full carnivore meal, pair with bone broth or melted butter drizzle.
🔥 Tips & Variations
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Strict Carnivore: Omit Worcestershire, garlic, and onion powder — just use salt, eggs, meat, and cheese.
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Spicy version: Add a pinch of chili flakes or smoked paprika to the mix.
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Extra tender: Mix in 1 tbsp beef tallow or butter before baking.
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Meal prep: Keeps well refrigerated for up to 5 days or freeze for 2 months.
⚡ Nutrition (per serving, ~1/6 of loaf)
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Calories: ~520
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Protein: 45 g
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Fat: 38 g
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Carbs: <1 g