Bacon Mushroom Swiss Cheese Meatloaf Recipe
This Bacon Mushroom Swiss Cheese Meatloaf is a savory, indulgent twist on the classic meatloaf, combining smoky bacon, earthy mushrooms, and melty Swiss cheese for an unforgettable flavor. It’s the perfect dish for a hearty dinner or meal prep, and it’s sure to please anyone following a carnivore or keto diet. Here’s how to make it!
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1/2 cup mushrooms, finely chopped (button or cremini mushrooms work well)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional for extra flavor)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup almond flour or crushed pork rinds (optional, to bind)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for a smoky kick)
- 1 1/2 cups Swiss cheese, shredded (divided)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional, for extra depth of flavor)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the bacon:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain the excess fat, leaving a small amount of bacon grease in the pan.
2. Sauté the mushrooms and onions:
In the same skillet, add the chopped mushrooms and onions (if using) to the remaining bacon fat. Sauté them for 4-5 minutes until the mushrooms soften and the onions become translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, then remove the skillet from the heat and set the mixture aside to cool slightly.
3. Mix the meatloaf:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked bacon, sautéed mushrooms and onions, egg, almond flour (or crushed pork rinds), salt, pepper, thyme, and smoked paprika. Mix everything together until well combined. If using Worcestershire sauce, add it to the mixture now.
4. Add cheese and shape the loaf:
Fold in 1 cup of shredded Swiss cheese into the meat mixture. Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or in a loaf pan.
5. Bake the meatloaf:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
6. Add cheese topping:
In the last 10 minutes of baking, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded Swiss cheese over the top of the meatloaf. Continue baking until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Cool and serve:
Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve hot with your favorite carnivore-friendly sides or enjoy it on its own.