Bacon Mushroom Swiss Meatloaf (Printable Version)

# What You’ll Need:

→ Meat Base

01 - 1 pound ground beef
02 - ½ pound ground pork
03 - 2 large eggs

→ Flavor Powerhouses

04 - 4 slices bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled
05 - 1 cup mushrooms, chopped
06 - ½ cup onions, chopped
07 - 1 cup grated Swiss cheese
08 - ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

→ Binding and Seasoning

09 - 1 cup breadcrumbs
10 - ½ cup milk
11 - 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
12 - 1 tablespoon ketchup (for mixing)
13 - ½ cup ketchup (for topping)
14 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
15 - 1 teaspoon dried thyme
16 - ½ teaspoon salt
17 - ½ teaspoon black pepper

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Preheat your oven to 375°F to prepare for the meatloaf.
02 - Cook bacon slices in a pan until crispy, then crumble them. In the same pan, sauté mushrooms and onions in the bacon fat until soft and golden. Set aside to cool.
03 - In a large bowl, mix ground beef, pork, Swiss cheese, breadcrumbs, milk, crumbled bacon, Parmesan cheese, cooled mushrooms and onions, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, 1 tablespoon ketchup, garlic powder, salt, thyme, and pepper. Combine until just mixed to avoid overworking.
04 - Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in a baking dish. Spread ½ cup ketchup evenly over the top.
05 - Bake for 60-70 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160°F. The exterior should be browned, and the ketchup glaze should look glossy.
06 - Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes after removing it from the oven. Slice and serve warm for optimal flavor and texture.

# Additional Notes:

01 - Using both beef and pork creates a balance of texture and flavor. Pork adds moisture, while beef provides a classic taste.
02 - Resting the meatloaf before slicing helps keep it intact and prevents crumbles.
03 - The combination of bacon, mushrooms, and Swiss cheese results in a uniquely rich and comforting flavor.