Bacon Mushroom Swiss Cheese Meatloaf

Ingredients

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 cup mushrooms, finely chopped
• 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Topping

• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cook the Mushrooms: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped mushrooms and diced onion. Cook for 5–7 minutes, until softened and the moisture from the mushrooms has evaporated. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Let cool slightly.
3. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked bacon, Swiss cheese, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Add the cooled mushroom mixture.
4. Mix Gently: Mix everything until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
5. Shape the Meatloaf: Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on the lined baking sheet.
6. Make the Topping: In a small bowl, stir together the ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard until smooth.
7. Add the Glaze: Spread about half of the topping evenly over the meatloaf.
8. Bake: Bake for 45 minutes. Spread the remaining glaze over the top and continue baking for another 15–20 minutes, or until the center reaches 160°F (71°C).
9. Rest and Serve: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or your favorite side dishes.

Tips for the Best Meatloaf

• Drain the mushrooms: Cooking off excess moisture helps prevent a soggy meatloaf.
• Choose the right beef: Ground beef with about 80–85% lean meat provides a juicy, flavorful result.
• Use freshly shredded Swiss cheese: It melts beautifully and adds a rich, nutty flavor.
• Don’t overmix: Gently combining the ingredients helps maintain a tender texture.
• Check the temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the center reaches 160°F (71°C).

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
• Freeze: Wrap individual slices tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Warm slices in a 325°F (165°C) oven, covered with foil, until heated through.

This Bacon Mushroom Swiss Cheese Meatloaf combines savory bacon, earthy mushrooms, and melted Swiss cheese in every tender slice. Finished with a sweet and tangy glaze, it’s a comforting family dinner that’s perfect for weeknights or a cozy weekend meal.