Bacon-Wrapped Little Loaves
Bacon-Wrapped Little Loaves are savory, flavorful meatloaves wrapped in crispy bacon, combining ground beef, cheddar cheese, and fresh vegetables. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining, they offer a comforting, hearty taste with a satisfying bacon crust, appealing to those who love classic comfort foods with a twist.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix ground beef, shredded Cheddar cheese, egg, dry bread crumbs, chopped onion, lemon juice, chopped green pepper, water, instant beef bouillon, and salt in a bowl until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into 6 loaves.
- Wrap each loaf with two halves of bacon, crisscrossing and tucking the ends underneath.
- Place the loaves on a rack in a shallow baking pan.
- Bake uncovered for 50 minutes or until cooked through and bacon is crispy.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some garlic powder or Worcestershire sauce into the meat mixture. If you're out of bacon, turkey bacon or even prosciutto can be a tasty substitute. Ensure the loaves are not too tightly packed for even cooking. If you prefer a tangier taste, try adding a splash of barbecue sauce to the meat mixture.
Serving Suggestions
These bacon-wrapped little loaves are perfect served with a side of mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. Consider pairing with a tangy barbecue sauce for dipping. They also make a great filling for sandwiches, reminiscent of the flavors in American recipes like Big John'S Cowboy Beef.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover bacon-wrapped loaves in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This will help keep the bacon crispy while warming the meat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bacon-Wrapped Little Loaves contains roughly 588 calories, with 14g protein, 100g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (28% of the Daily Value) and calcium (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1601mg per serving (70% 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 a different type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. However, keep in mind that the flavor and moisture content may vary, so you might want to add a bit more seasoning or moisture to the mixture.
How do I know when the loaves are done cooking?
The loaves are done when they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) and the bacon is crispy. You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature, ensuring a perfectly cooked dish.
Can these be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the loaves and wrap them in bacon a day in advance, then refrigerate until you're ready to bake. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld for a tastier result.
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).