Bacon Mushroom Swiss Cheese Meatloaf

This Bacon Mushroom Swiss Cheese Meatloaf is a mouthwatering twist on the classic comfort food. Packed with savory ground beef and pork, earthy mushrooms, melty Swiss cheese, and wrapped in crispy bacon, this meatloaf is juicy, flavorful, and perfect for dinner. With its rich flavors and hearty texture, it’s sure to become a family favorite!

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 pound ground pork
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 1 cup mushrooms, finely chopped (about 6–8 medium mushrooms)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped)
• 6–8 slices of bacon
• 4–6 slices of Swiss cheese (for stuffing and topping)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup, and place a wire rack on top if you have one (this helps the meatloaf cook evenly and stay moist).

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil or butter. Sauté the diced onion, chopped mushrooms, and minced garlic until softened and fragrant, about 5–7 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Step 3: Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, beaten egg, sautéed onion-mushroom mixture, salt, black pepper, and thyme. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything gently until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.

Step 4: Shape the Meatloaf

1. On a clean work surface or directly on the prepared baking sheet, shape the meat mixture into a loaf about 9×5 inches in size.
2. Place 2–3 slices of Swiss cheese in the center of the meatloaf horizontally, leaving a border around the edges. Carefully fold the meat mixture over the cheese to enclose it, sealing the edges well.

Step 5: Wrap with Bacon

1. Lay the bacon slices side by side over the top of the meatloaf, slightly overlapping them. Tuck the ends of the bacon underneath the meatloaf to secure them.

Step 6: Bake

1. Place the meatloaf on the prepared baking sheet (or wire rack) and bake in the preheated oven for 50–60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
2. During the last 10 minutes of baking, place additional slices of Swiss cheese on top of the meatloaf to create a gooey, cheesy layer. Return to the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

1. Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful result.
2. Slice the meatloaf into thick pieces and serve warm with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Tips for Success

• Mushroom Tip: Finely chop the mushrooms so they blend seamlessly into the meatloaf, adding moisture and depth of flavor without overpowering the dish.
• Bacon Crispiness: For extra crispy bacon, broil the meatloaf for 2–3 minutes after baking (watch closely to avoid burning).
• Cheese Variations: Substitute Swiss cheese with cheddar, provolone, or Gouda for a different flavor profile.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Bacon Mushroom Swiss Cheese Meatloaf takes a classic dish to new heights with its rich, savory flavors and gooey cheese filling. The combination of ground beef and pork creates a juicy, tender texture, while the earthy mushrooms and crispy bacon add layers of complexity. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, this meatloaf is sure to impress. Dive into this hearty, cheesy delight and savor every bite!