Individually portioned and wrapped in smoky bacon, these mini meatloaves offer all the comforts of classic meatloaf—juicy beef, tender sautéed onions, and a sweet‑tangy glaze—in a fun, handheld package. Each loaf cooks faster than a traditional meatloaf and keeps juicy thanks to the bacon “basting” as it bakes. A brown sugar–ketchup–mustard glaze caramelizes beautifully on top, while crispy fried onions add crunch. They’re perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or entertaining—and they reheat beautifully, making satisfying leftovers a breeze. Comfort food elevated in flavor and presentation. 

Ingredients (makes 6 loaves)

• 1 Tbsp butter

• 1 medium onion, finely diced

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1½ lb ground beef

• 1 large egg

• 1 cup breadcrumbs

• 1 cup milk

• 1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tsp dried thyme

• Salt & pepper, to taste

• 6 slices thick-cut bacon
  Topping:

• ½ cup ketchup

• 1 Tbsp brown sugar

• 1 Tbsp spicy brown mustard

• ½ cup crispy fried onion pieces 

Directions

1. Prep & sauté aromatics: Preheat oven to 350 °F. Melt butter in a pan, sauté onion for ~3–5 minutes until soft, then add garlic and cook 2–3 minutes. Remove from heat.

2. Mix meatloaf base: In a bowl, combine ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, pepper, and sautéed onion-garlic mix. Handle lightly.

3. Portion & wrap: Divide mixture into 6 equal portions; shape into thick patties. Wrap each with a bacon slice around the edge (secure with a toothpick if needed).

4. Add glaze & bake: In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Spread evenly atop each loaf, then sprinkle with fried onions. Bake ~1 hour 15 minutes, or until internal temp reaches 160 °F and bacon is crisp. 

5. Rest & serve: Let cool slightly before serving.

Estimated Nutrition (per loaf)

• Calories: ~575 kcal

• Protein: ~27 g

• Carbohydrates: ~27 g

• Fat: ~38 g (saturated ~15 g)

• Cholesterol: ~131 mg

• Sodium: ~675 mg

• Potassium: ~561 mg

• Fiber: ~1 g

• Sugar: ~10 g