• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
Anas Recipes

Anas Recipes

Delicious Recipes

  • Home
  • Appetizer
  • Dinner
  • Lunch
  • Dessert
  • About Me
  • contact us
Anas Recipes
  • Home
  • Appetizer
  • Dinner
  • Lunch
  • Dessert
  • About Me
  • contact us
Dinner / Apple Bacon Meatloaf: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Apple Bacon Meatloaf: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

July 13, 2025 by BriannaDinner

Apple bacon meatloaf: Prepare to redefine your perception of comfort food! Forget everything you thought you knew about meatloaf because this isn’t your grandma’s dry, bland version. We’re talking about a juicy, flavorful masterpiece that will have everyone begging for seconds. Imagine the savory richness of perfectly seasoned ground meat, punctuated by the sweet tang of apples and the smoky, irresistible crunch of bacon. Sounds incredible, right?

Meatloaf itself has a fascinating history, evolving from humble beginnings as a way to use leftover scraps of meat into a beloved family staple. Its roots can be traced back to ancient Roman times, but it truly gained popularity in America during the Great Depression as an economical and satisfying meal. While the classic recipe is a timeless favorite, I believe it’s time to elevate this dish to new heights.

What makes this apple bacon meatloaf so special? It’s the perfect balance of sweet and savory, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. The apples add moisture and a subtle sweetness that complements the savory meat and smoky bacon. The bacon, of course, adds a delightful crispy texture and an undeniable umami boost. This recipe is also incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. Trust me, once you try this apple bacon meatloaf, you’ll never go back to the ordinary!

Apple bacon meatloaf this Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 1.5 lbs Ground Beef (80/20 blend is ideal for flavor and moisture)
  • 0.5 lb Ground Pork (adds richness and depth of flavor)
  • 1 cup Bread Crumbs (plain, unseasoned)
  • 1/2 cup Milk (whole milk is preferred, but 2% will work)
  • 1 large Egg (lightly beaten)
  • 1 medium Yellow Onion (finely diced)
  • 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
  • 4 slices Bacon (cooked until crispy, then crumbled)
  • 1 medium Apple (peeled, cored, and finely diced – Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
  • 1/4 cup Ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon Ground Black Pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon Salt (or to taste)
  • For the Glaze:
  • 1/2 cup Ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons Brown Sugar (packed)
  • 1 tablespoon Apple Cider Vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard

Preparing the Meatloaf Mixture:

  1. Hydrate the Bread Crumbs: In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread crumbs and milk. Let this mixture sit for about 5-10 minutes to allow the bread crumbs to absorb the milk. This step is crucial for a moist meatloaf. If the breadcrumbs seem too dry after 5 minutes, add a tablespoon or two more of milk. We want them nicely saturated but not soupy.
  2. Sauté the Aromatics: While the bread crumbs are hydrating, heat a small skillet over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil or butter. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Burnt garlic will make the whole meatloaf taste bitter. Remove the skillet from the heat and let the onion and garlic cool slightly.
  3. Combine the Ingredients: Add the ground beef and ground pork to the bowl with the bread crumb mixture. Gently break up the meat with your hands. Add the cooled onion and garlic mixture, the beaten egg, crumbled bacon, diced apple, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  4. Mix Gently: This is the most important step! Use your hands to gently combine all the ingredients. Overmixing will result in a tough meatloaf. Mix just until everything is evenly distributed. I like to use my fingertips to gently incorporate everything, avoiding compacting the meat.

Shaping and Preparing for Baking:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a loaf pan (approximately 9×5 inches) with cooking spray or olive oil. You can also line the pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal after baking.
  3. Shape the Meatloaf: Gently transfer the meatloaf mixture to the prepared loaf pan. Shape it into an even loaf, pressing down lightly to ensure it fills the pan. Avoid packing the meatloaf too tightly, as this can also lead to a denser texture.

Making and Applying the Glaze:

  1. Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard until well combined. The brown sugar should dissolve completely.
  2. Apply the Glaze: Spread half of the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf. Reserve the remaining glaze for later.

Baking the Meatloaf:

  1. Bake: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 60-75 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Use a meat thermometer inserted into the center of the meatloaf to check the temperature.
  2. Apply Remaining Glaze: About 15 minutes before the end of the baking time, remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread the remaining glaze over the top. Return the meatloaf to the oven and continue baking until the glaze is bubbly and slightly caramelized.
  3. Rest: Once the meatloaf is cooked through and the glaze is nicely caramelized, remove it from the oven and let it rest in the loaf pan for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more moist and flavorful meatloaf.

Serving Suggestions:

This apple bacon meatloaf is delicious served with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad. The sweetness of the apple and the smokiness of the bacon complement the savory meatloaf perfectly. You can also serve it with extra ketchup or a dollop of sour cream.

Tips for Success:

  • Don’t Overmix: I can’t stress this enough! Overmixing the meatloaf mixture will result in a tough and dense meatloaf. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
  • Use a Meat Thermometer: A meat thermometer is your best friend when making meatloaf. It ensures that the meatloaf is cooked through without being overcooked.
  • Let it Rest: Allowing the meatloaf to rest after baking is crucial for a moist and flavorful result.
  • Customize the Flavors: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your liking. You can add other herbs, spices, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
  • Add Vegetables: If you want to sneak in some extra vegetables, you can add finely grated carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers to the meatloaf mixture.
  • Use Different Types of Meat: While I recommend using a combination of ground beef and ground pork, you can also use ground turkey or ground chicken. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
  • Make it Ahead: You can prepare the meatloaf mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This is a great way to save time on busy weeknights.
  • Freeze it: Meatloaf freezes beautifully. You can freeze the entire meatloaf before or after baking. To freeze before baking, wrap the shaped meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. To freeze after baking, let the meatloaf cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Thaw the meatloaf in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
  • Variations on the Glaze: Get creative with the glaze! Try adding a tablespoon of maple syrup for a sweeter glaze, or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick. You could even use a barbecue sauce instead of ketchup.
  • Bacon Placement: For even more bacon flavor, reserve some of the crumbled bacon and sprinkle it on top of the meatloaf before adding the glaze. This will give you a crispy bacon topping.
  • Apple Variety: While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples are my go-to choices, you can experiment with other varieties. Braeburn or Fuji apples would also work well. Just make sure the apple is firm and slightly tart to balance the richness of the meat.

Troubleshooting:

  • Meatloaf is Dry: This is usually caused by overcooking or using too lean of a ground beef. Make sure to use a meat thermometer and don’t overbake. Also, ensure you’re using at least an 80/20 blend of ground beef. Adding a bit more milk to the breadcrumb mixture can also help.
  • Meatloaf is Greasy: This can happen if you use a ground beef that is too fatty. Drain off any excess grease during baking if necessary. Using a leaner ground beef (but not too lean!) can also help.
  • Meatloaf is Falling Apart: This is often due to not enough binder (egg or breadcrumbs). Make sure you’re using the correct amount of breadcrumbs and egg as specified in the recipe. Also, be gentle when mixing the ingredients.
  • Meatloaf is Bland: This is easily fixed! Add more salt, pepper, and other seasonings to your liking. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices.
  • Glaze is Burning: If the glaze is browning too quickly, tent the meatloaf with aluminum foil during the last 15 minutes of baking.

Nutritional Information (Approximate):

Please note that the following nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

    Apple bacon meatloaf

    Conclusion:

    This isn’t just any meatloaf; it’s an experience! The sweet and savory combination of apples and bacon elevates this classic comfort food to a whole new level. The juicy apples provide a delightful sweetness that perfectly complements the smoky bacon and savory ground meat, creating a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Trust me, once you try this apple bacon meatloaf, you’ll never look at meatloaf the same way again. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

    But why is this recipe a must-try? Because it’s incredibly easy to make, uses readily available ingredients, and delivers a flavor explosion that will leave you wanting more. It’s the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and smoky, all wrapped up in a comforting and satisfying package. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some extra fruit into your family’s diet!

    Looking for serving suggestions? This apple bacon meatloaf is fantastic served with a simple side of mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables. The sweetness of the meatloaf pairs beautifully with the creamy potatoes and the earthy vegetables. For a lighter option, try serving it with a fresh green salad and a vinaigrette dressing. And don’t forget the gravy! A simple pan gravy made with the meatloaf drippings will add an extra layer of richness and flavor.

    Want to get creative? There are so many ways to customize this recipe to your liking. Try adding a touch of spice with a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. For a cheesier version, stir in some shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese before baking. You could even swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some chopped walnuts or pecans for a bit of crunch.

    Here are a few more variations to consider:

    Apple Bacon Meatloaf Variations:

    * Spicy Apple Bacon Meatloaf: Add 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes and 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the meat mixture.
    * Cheesy Apple Bacon Meatloaf: Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese or Monterey Jack cheese before baking.
    * Turkey Apple Bacon Meatloaf: Substitute ground turkey for ground beef.
    * Apple Bacon Meatloaf with Walnuts: Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the meat mixture.
    * Glazed Apple Bacon Meatloaf: Brush the meatloaf with a glaze made from apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard during the last 15 minutes of baking.

    I’m confident that you’ll love this recipe as much as I do. It’s a guaranteed winner that will impress your family and friends. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the magic of apple bacon meatloaf!

    I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! Once you’ve made it, please come back and share your experience in the comments below. I’d love to hear what you think and any variations you tried. Did you add any special ingredients? Did you serve it with a particular side dish? Your feedback is invaluable and helps me to improve my recipes and share them with others. Don’t be shy – let me know what you think! Happy cooking!


    Apple Bacon Meatloaf: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

    A flavorful twist on classic meatloaf with ground beef, pork, sweet apples, crispy bacon, and a tangy ketchup glaze.

    Prep Time20 minutes
    Cook Time75 minutes
    Total Time95 minutes
    Category: Dinner
    Yield: 6-8 servings
    Save This Recipe

    Ingredients

    • 1.5 lbs Ground Beef (80/20 blend)
    • 0.5 lb Ground Pork
    • 1 cup Bread Crumbs (plain, unseasoned)
    • 1/2 cup Milk (whole or 2%)
    • 1 large Egg (lightly beaten)
    • 1 medium Yellow Onion (finely diced)
    • 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
    • 4 slices Bacon (cooked and crumbled)
    • 1 medium Apple (peeled, cored, diced – Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
    • 1/4 cup Ketchup
    • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce
    • 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard
    • 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme
    • 1/2 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
    • 1/4 teaspoon Ground Black Pepper
    • 1/4 teaspoon Salt (or to taste)
    • 1/2 cup Ketchup
    • 2 tablespoons Brown Sugar (packed)
    • 1 tablespoon Apple Cider Vinegar
    • 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard

    Instructions

    1. Hydrate the Bread Crumbs: In a large bowl, combine bread crumbs and milk. Let sit for 5-10 minutes, adding more milk if needed.
    2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat a skillet over medium heat with olive oil or butter. Add diced onion and cook until softened (5-7 minutes). Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Let cool slightly.
    3. Combine Ingredients: In the bowl with the bread crumb mixture, add ground beef, ground pork, cooled onion and garlic, beaten egg, crumbled bacon, diced apple, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
    4. Mix Gently: Gently combine all ingredients with your hands until just evenly distributed. Avoid overmixing.
    5. Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
    6. Prepare Baking Dish: Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with cooking spray or olive oil. You can also line with parchment paper.
    7. Shape Meatloaf: Gently transfer the meatloaf mixture to the prepared pan. Shape into an even loaf, pressing down lightly.
    8. Prepare Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard until well combined.
    9. Apply Glaze: Spread half of the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf. Reserve the remaining glaze.
    10. Bake: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 60-75 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
    11. Apply Remaining Glaze: About 15 minutes before the end of the baking time, remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread the remaining glaze over the top. Return the meatloaf to the oven and continue baking until the glaze is bubbly and slightly caramelized.
    12. Rest: Let the meatloaf rest in the pan for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

    Notes

    • Don’t overmix the meatloaf mixture.
    • Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf is cooked through.
    • Let the meatloaf rest after baking for a more moist result.
    • Customize the seasonings to your liking.
    • Add finely grated vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers.
    • Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef and pork.
    • Prepare the meatloaf mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
    • Meatloaf freezes beautifully.
    • Get creative with the glaze!
    • For even more bacon flavor, reserve some of the crumbled bacon and sprinkle it on top of the meatloaf before adding the glaze.
    • Experiment with other apple varieties.

« Previous Post
Oat Meatloaf: The Ultimate Guide to a Delicious and Healthy Meal
Next Post »
Bacon Gravy Mac and Cheese: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

If you enjoyed this…

Dinner

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti: A Deliciously Cheesy Twist on Classic Pasta

Dinner

Tzatziki Chicken Naan Pizza: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Favorite

Dinner

Rustic Vodka Sauce: The Ultimate Guide to Homemade Perfection

Reader Interactions

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Helpful comments include feedback on the post or changes you made.

Primary Sidebar

Browse by Diet

AppetizerAppetizerBreakfastBreakfastDinnerDinnerLunchLunchDessertDessert

Veggies Mac and Cheese: A Delicious and Healthy Twist on a Classic

Hoisin Pork Meatballs: A Delicious and Easy Recipe

Velveeta Sloppy Joes: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

  • California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA)
  • contact us
  • DMCA
  • Cookie Privacy Policy
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use

© 2025 · Cuisine Recipe Theme · Genesis Framework · Disclosure · Website Design by Anchored Design