Bacon Mini Loaves
Mini bacon-wrapped hamburger loaves bursting with cheddar and green pepper, perfect for a hearty, savory meal suited for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together hamburger, egg, chopped onion, water, salt, shredded Cheddar cheese, bread crumbs, chopped green pepper, and beef bouillon.
- Shape the mixture into 6 loaves.
- Wrap each loaf with crisscross bacon strips.
- Place the loaves on a broiler pan.
- Bake at 350°F for 45 to 50 minutes.
- Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of hamburger for a lighter option. You can also swap the Cheddar cheese with mozzarella for a milder taste. If you prefer a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños to the mixture. Ensure the bacon is evenly distributed around the loaves for a consistent flavor and crispy texture when baked.
Serving Suggestions
These bacon mini loaves make a hearty main dish and pair well with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. You can serve them alongside mashed potatoes or a grain like quinoa for added texture. For a fun twist, consider serving with a dipping sauce or alongside baked meat pies for a comforting spread.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover bacon mini loaves can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave them for 1-2 minutes, but this may result in less crispy bacon.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bacon Mini Loaves contains roughly 699 calories, with 18g protein, 111g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (36% of the Daily Value) and calcium (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2043mg per serving (89% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can experiment with different cheeses such as Monterey Jack, Gouda, or Pepper Jack for varying flavors. Each cheese will lend a unique taste to the mini loaves, so feel free to mix and match to find your favorite combination.
How do I know when the mini loaves are fully cooked?
The mini loaves are fully cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 160°F. You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature. Additionally, the bacon should be crispy and the juices from the meat should run clear to ensure they are safe to eat.
Can I freeze the bacon mini loaves?
Yes, you can freeze the mini loaves before or after baking. If freezing before baking, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and store them in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to cook, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).