Microwave Bacon Wrapped Mini Meat Loaves
Microwave bacon-wrapped mini meat loaves combine savory ground beef with tender vegetables, wrapped in crispy bacon—perfect for quick, flavorful meals for family or entertaining.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine chopped green pepper and onion in a small bowl.
- Cover with plastic wrap and microwave on High for 1 1/2 to 3 minutes or until tender-crisp. Set aside.
- Layer 3 paper towels on a plate.
- Arrange bacon slices on the paper towels and cover with another paper towel.
- Microwave on High for 2 to 3 1/2 minutes or until bacon begins to brown. Set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, bread cubes, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
- Add the cooked green peppers and onions to the mixture and mix well.
- Divide the mixture into portions and shape into mini loaves.
- Wrap each mini loaf with a strip of bacon used earlier.
- Place the bacon-wrapped loaves on a microwave-safe plate and microwave on High for approximately 4-6 minutes or until cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, try adding minced garlic or your favorite herbs to the meat mixture. For a lighter option, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. If you prefer a smokier taste, use smoked bacon. Ensure even cooking by checking the internal temperature of the meat loaves; they should reach 160°F. For added texture, consider mixing in some breadcrumbs or oats.
Serving Suggestions
These bacon-wrapped mini meat loaves are perfect served with a side of mashed potatoes or a fresh garden salad. They also pair beautifully with Best In The West Baked Beans for a hearty meal. For a fun twist, consider serving them on slider buns as a delicious appetizer or game day snack. A dollop of extra ketchup or barbecue sauce on top adds a nice finishing touch.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover mini meat loaves can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave them on a microwave-safe plate for 1-2 minutes, or until warmed through, making sure to cover them to retain moisture. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months; reheat directly from frozen, adding extra time as needed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Bacon Wrapped Mini Meat Loaves contains roughly 360 calories, with 11g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (108% of the Daily Value) and protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 888mg per serving (39% 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?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even pork instead of beef. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the type of meat used. Make sure to cook the meat until it reaches a safe internal temperature for the specific meat you choose.
How can I make these mini loaves more flavorful?
Adding spices like garlic powder, onion powder, or Italian seasoning can elevate the flavor. You might also consider mixing in some shredded cheese or finely chopped vegetables like mushrooms or spinach to enhance the taste and nutrition of your mini loaves.
What is the best way to ensure the bacon is crispy?
To achieve crispy bacon, be sure to microwave it until it begins to brown before wrapping it around the meat loaves. Additionally, you can briefly broil the loaves after microwaving them to crisp up the bacon even more. Watch closely to avoid burning!
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).