Description
This Homemade Pioneer Woman Meatloaf recipe is a hearty and comforting dish featuring a juicy blend of ground beef, fresh herbs, and a flavorful ketchup glaze topped with crispy bacon. Perfect for a family dinner, this meatloaf combines classic ingredients like Parmesan cheese, bread for binding, and a hint of Tabasco for a subtle kick, all cooked to tender perfection in the oven.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatloaf
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 6 slices white bread (torn into small pieces for binding)
- 1/3 cup fresh parsley (finely chopped)
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated preferred)
- 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend works best)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- Tabasco sauce to taste (optional)
- 1 tsp dry mustard
Topping
- 10 slices bacon (for topping)
- 1.5 cups ketchup (I use Heinz)
- 1/3 cup brown sugar (packed)
Instructions
- Prepare the bread soaking mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the torn bread pieces with the whole milk and eggs. Let it soak for a few minutes until the bread softens, which helps bind the meatloaf together and adds moisture.
- Add herbs and cheese: Stir in the finely chopped fresh parsley and freshly grated Parmesan cheese to the soaked bread mixture, mixing thoroughly to combine the flavors.
- Mix the meat and seasonings: Add the ground beef to the mixture, then season with salt, black pepper, dry mustard, and optional Tabasco sauce. Use your hands or a sturdy spoon to gently combine all ingredients until just mixed. Avoid overworking to keep the meatloaf tender.
- Shape the meatloaf: Transfer the meat mixture to a loaf pan or shape into a traditional loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Ensure the loaf is even in thickness for even cooking.
- Prepare the glaze: In a small bowl, stir together ketchup and packed brown sugar until smooth and combined. This glaze adds a sweet and tangy finish to the meatloaf.
- Apply the glaze: Spread about half of the ketchup and brown sugar glaze evenly over the top of the shaped meatloaf.
- Arrange bacon topping: Lay the 10 slices of bacon across the top of the glazed meatloaf, slightly overlapping. The bacon will crisp up and infuse the loaf with smoky flavor while baking.
- Bake the meatloaf: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the meatloaf in the center of the oven and bake for approximately 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Halfway through baking, spread the remaining glaze over the bacon topper for extra flavor and caramelization.
- Rest before serving: Once cooked through, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the meatloaf moist and easier to slice.
Notes
- For best results, use an 80/20 ratio ground beef for optimal flavor and moisture.
- If you prefer less heat, omit the Tabasco sauce or reduce the amount.
- The meatloaf can be shaped either in a loaf pan or free-formed on a baking sheet.
- Letting the meatloaf rest before slicing improves juiciness and texture.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
