These Mini BBQ Bacon-Cheddar Meatloaves are a fun, delicious twist on classic meatloaf, with flavors of smoky bacon, tangy BBQ sauce, and melted cheddar cheese. Each mini meatloaf is packed with bold flavors, making it a fantastic main course for weeknight dinners or gatherings. The individual servings make them perfect for easy plating and portion control. Serve with mashed potatoes, veggies, or a fresh salad for a complete meal that everyone will love!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds lean ground beef
- 6 ounces bacon, cooked and crumbled (about 4 slices of thick-cut bacon)
- 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar or cheddar blend cheese
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
- 1 teaspoon granulated garlic
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
- ½ cup prepared BBQ sauce (plus extra for topping, if desired)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a muffin tin for individual servings.
- Cook Bacon: Cook the bacon until crispy, then crumble and set aside.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar, panko breadcrumbs, beaten eggs, onion powder, seasoned salt, granulated garlic, Worcestershire sauce, yellow mustard, and BBQ sauce.
- Mix Gently: Use your hands or a spoon to gently mix all ingredients until just combined.
- Form Mini Meatloaves: Divide the mixture into 8-10 portions and shape each into a small loaf (or use a muffin tin for easy shaping).
- Place on Baking Sheet: Place each mini meatloaf on the prepared baking sheet or in the muffin tin.
- Bake: Place the meatloaves in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Add Extra BBQ Sauce (Optional): During the last 5 minutes of baking, brush a little extra BBQ sauce on top of each meatloaf for a glossy finish.
- Serve Hot: Allow the meatloaves to rest for a few minutes before serving. Pair with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, steamed veggies, or a fresh green salad.
Conclusion
These Mini BBQ Bacon-Cheddar Meatloaves are packed with savory, smoky flavor and topped with a tangy BBQ glaze that makes them truly irresistible. The combination of bacon, cheddar, and classic meatloaf ingredients creates a comforting dish that’s both fun and flavorful. Perfect for family meals or casual gatherings, this recipe is a great way to enjoy a delicious twist on traditional meatloaf!
Mini BBQ Bacon-Cheddar Meatloaves
Ingredients
- 2 pounds lean ground beef
- 6 ounces bacon cooked and crumbled (about 4 slices of thick-cut bacon)
- 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar or cheddar blend cheese
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs beaten
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
- 1 teaspoon granulated garlic
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
- ½ cup prepared BBQ sauce plus extra for topping, if desired
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a muffin tin for individual servings.
- Cook Bacon: Cook the bacon until crispy, then crumble and set aside.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar, panko breadcrumbs, beaten eggs, onion powder, seasoned salt, granulated garlic, Worcestershire sauce, yellow mustard, and BBQ sauce.
- Mix Gently: Use your hands or a spoon to gently mix all ingredients until just combined.
- Form Mini Meatloaves: Divide the mixture into 8-10 portions and shape each into a small loaf (or use a muffin tin for easy shaping).
- Place on Baking Sheet: Place each mini meatloaf on the prepared baking sheet or in the muffin tin.
- Bake: Place the meatloaves in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Add Extra BBQ Sauce (Optional): During the last 5 minutes of baking, brush a little extra BBQ sauce on top of each meatloaf for a glossy finish.
- Serve Hot: Allow the meatloaves to rest for a few minutes before serving. Pair with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, steamed veggies, or a fresh green salad.