Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf

Ingredients:

For the Meatloaf:

  • 2 pounds high-quality ground beef (preferably a blend of sirloin and chuck)

  • 1/2 pound ground pork

  • 1 cup fresh breadcrumbs

  • 1/2 cup whole milk

  • 2 large eggs, beaten

  • 1/2 cup finely chopped onion

  • 1/4 cup finely chopped celery

  • 1/4 cup finely chopped carrot

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme

  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

  • Salt and black pepper to taste

  • 1/2 cup ketchup

For the Bacon Weave:

  • 12-16 slices high-quality bacon

For the Glaze:

  • 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar

  • 1/4 cup honey

  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

  2. Prepare the Meatloaf:

    • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, beaten eggs, chopped onion, celery, carrot, garlic, parsley, thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper.

    • Mix the ingredients gently until well combined but avoid over-mixing to keep the meatloaf tender.

    • Shape the mixture into a loaf shape and place it on a baking sheet.

  1. Create the Bacon Weave:

    • Lay out the bacon slices in a weave pattern on a flat surface.

    • Place the meatloaf on the bacon weave and carefully wrap the bacon around the meatloaf, tucking the ends underneath.

  1. Prepare the Glaze:

    • In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard.

    • Cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens slightly, stirring constantly. Remove from heat.

  1. Bake the Meatloaf:

    • Brush the bacon-wrapped meatloaf with a thin layer of the balsamic glaze.

    • Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

  1. Glaze the Meatloaf:

    • During the last 15-20 minutes of baking, brush the meatloaf with more of the balsamic glaze.

  1. Serve:

    • Let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing.

    • Drizzle any remaining glaze over the slices before serving.

Presentation:

Serve the bacon-wrapped meatloaf slices on a plate garnished with microgreens and a drizzle of balsamic reduction for an elegant touch. Accompany it with a side of truffle-infused mashed potatoes or a delicate root vegetable puree.