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Bacon-Wrapped Slow Cooker Meatloaf

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Bacon-Wrapped Slow Cooker Meatloaf

Description

This Bacon-Wrapped Slow Cooker Meatloaf is a rich, juicy, and flavorful comfort food classic made even better with crispy bacon wrapped around a tender beef and seasoning-filled meatloaf. Slow cooking keeps the meat incredibly moist while allowing all the flavors from onions, garlic, herbs, and sauce to blend together perfectly. The bacon adds a smoky, savory layer that makes every slice irresistible. It’s an easy set-it-and-forget-it recipe ideal for family dinners, meal prep, or cozy weekends.

Ingredients For the Meatloaf

  • 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 recommended)
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

For Wrapping & Topping:

  • 8–10 slices bacon
  • 1/4 cup ketchup or BBQ sauce (for glaze)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Meat Mixture
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, onion, garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika. Mix gently until just combined (do not overmix or meatloaf will become dense).

2. Shape the Meatloaf
Form the mixture into a loaf shape that fits your slow cooker. Place it on parchment paper or foil for easy lifting.

3. Wrap with Bacon
Carefully wrap bacon slices around the meatloaf, slightly overlapping each slice to cover the surface fully.

4. Add to Slow Cooker
Place the bacon-wrapped meatloaf into the slow cooker. Brush the top with ketchup or BBQ sauce for a flavorful glaze.

5. Cook
Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or on HIGH for 3–4 hours, until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

6. Optional Crisp Finish
For crispy bacon, transfer meatloaf to a baking sheet and broil for 3–5 minutes before serving.

7. Rest & Serve
Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.

Tips & Notes

  • Use lean-to-fat ratio 80/20 for best texture and moisture.
  • Do not overmix the meat mixture to avoid a tough texture.
  • Add shredded cheese inside for extra richness.
  • Line slow cooker with foil for easy cleanup.
  • Bacon thickness matters—medium-cut works best for even cooking.

Servings

Serves 6–8 people

Nutritional Info (Approximate per serving):
Calories: 420
Protein: 32g
Fat: 28g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 680mg

Benefits:

  • High in protein for muscle support and satiety
  • Slow cooking preserves moisture and tenderness
  • Bacon adds flavor without needing extra oil or fat
  • Great for meal prep and leftovers
  • Comforting, filling, and family-friendly meal
  • Easy one-pot cooking method reduces cleanup

Q/A Section:

Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, but add a little extra milk or olive oil to keep it moist.

Q: Can I cook it faster?
Yes, cook on HIGH for 3–4 hours, but LOW gives better texture.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Q: Can I freeze meatloaf?
Yes, freeze slices for up to 2 months.

Q: Why is my meatloaf falling apart?
It may need more binding (egg or breadcrumbs) or was cut too soon.

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