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Savory Bacon-Wrapped Mini Meatloaves Recipe with Easy Brown Sugar Glaze

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These savory bacon-wrapped mini meatloaves feature a crispy bacon jacket with a sticky, caramelized brown sugar glaze, delivering a perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and juicy flavors in a handheld bite.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450g) ground beef (80/20 blend)
  • 8 slices bacon (thin but sturdy, smoky thick-cut preferred)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup (50g) breadcrumbs (plain or Italian seasoned; almond flour or gluten-free panko for gluten-free)
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) milk (dairy-free options like oat or almond milk work)
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • For the Brown Sugar Glaze:
  • 1/4 cup (50g) brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon or yellow mustard
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined; avoid overmixing.
  3. Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions. Shape each into a compact oval or mini loaf about 3-4 inches long. Place evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
  4. Wrap one slice of bacon snugly around each mini meatloaf, tucking the ends underneath to secure.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together brown sugar, mustard, ketchup, and apple cider vinegar (if using) until smooth and glossy.
  6. Brush the glaze generously onto each bacon-wrapped mini meatloaf.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes. About halfway through baking (15-18 minutes), brush on a second coat of glaze.
  8. Check doneness with an instant-read thermometer; internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C). Alternatively, cut into one to ensure no pink remains and juices run clear.
  9. Let the mini meatloaves rest for 5 minutes on the baking sheet before serving to allow juices to redistribute and glaze to set.

Notes

Do not overmix the meat mixture to keep meatloaves tender and juicy. Wrap bacon tightly to prevent curling and ensure even crisping. Apply the brown sugar glaze twice during baking for a sticky, caramelized crust. Use an instant-read thermometer to check doneness at 160°F (71°C). Let meatloaves rest before serving to retain juices and set glaze. For gluten-free, substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free panko. For dairy-free, use non-dairy milk. Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes to restore crispness and warmth; avoid microwaving.

Nutrition

Keywords: bacon wrapped meatloaf, mini meatloaves, brown sugar glaze, easy meatloaf recipe, savory meatloaf, comfort food, quick dinner, party appetizers

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