Mini BBQ Bacon Cheddar Meatloaf

These individual-sized meatloafs are packed with smoky barbecue flavor, crispy bacon, and melted cheddar cheese, offering a delightful twist on the classic meatloaf. Made with lean ground beef, panko breadcrumbs, and a blend of seasonings, these mini meatloafs bake in half the time of traditional ones, making them perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Topped with your favorite BBQ sauce, they deliver a satisfying combination of flavors and textures in each bite. Whether served with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad, this dish is sure to please the whole family.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds lean ground beef

• 6 ounces chili sauce

• 4 slices thick bacon, cooked and crumbled

• 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar or cheddar blend cheese

• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs

• 2 large eggs, beaten

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon seasoned salt

• 1 teaspoon granulated garlic

• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

• 1 teaspoon yellow mustard

• ½ cup prepared BBQ sauce
  
  

Directions:

1. Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 425°F (220°C).

2. Cook Bacon: In a skillet, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove, crumble, and set aside.

3. Mix Meatloaf Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, chili sauce, crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, panko breadcrumbs, beaten eggs, onion powder, seasoned salt, granulated garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and yellow mustard. Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing to maintain tenderness.

4. Form Meatloafs: Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions and shape each into a round loaf. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a lightly greased baking dish.

5. Apply BBQ Sauce: Make a small indentation in the center of each meatloaf and spoon a bit of BBQ sauce into each.

6. Bake: Bake for 25 minutes. Then, turn on the broiler and broil for an additional 2 to 5 minutes to caramelize the BBQ sauce.

7. Rest and Serve: Allow the meatloafs to rest for 5 minutes before serving to retain their juices.
   
   

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 591 kcal

• Protein: 49 g

• Fat: 34 g

• Saturated Fat: 16 g

• Trans Fat: 1 g

• Cholesterol: 202 mg

• Sodium: 1,287 mg

• Carbohydrates: 19 g

• Fiber: 1 g

• Sugar: 10 g