Mini BBQ Bacon Cheddar Loaves (Print-Friendly Format)

Smoky mini meatloaf glazed with barbecue sauce, loaded with cheddar and bacon, ideal for busy weeknights.

# Required Ingredients:

→ Main Components

01 - 900 g lean ground beef
02 - 170 g chili sauce
03 - 4 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked and crumbled
04 - 170 g shredded sharp cheddar cheese or cheese blend
05 - 60 g panko breadcrumbs
06 - 2 large eggs, beaten

→ Seasonings and Sauces

07 - 1 teaspoon onion powder
08 - 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
09 - 1 teaspoon granulated garlic
10 - 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
11 - 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
12 - 120 ml prepared barbecue sauce

# How to Make It:

01 - Preheat oven to 220°C. Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
02 - Cook thick-cut bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Drain on paper towels and crumble once cooled.
03 - In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, chili sauce, crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar, panko breadcrumbs, beaten eggs, onion powder, seasoned salt, granulated garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and yellow mustard. Mix until just incorporated; do not overwork.
04 - Divide mixture into 8 equal portions. Shape each portion into a round loaf and place on prepared baking tray. Press a slight indentation into the top center of each loaf.
05 - Brush a generous layer of barbecue sauce over each mini meatloaf.
06 - Bake in preheated oven for 25 minutes, until loaves are cooked through.
07 - Switch oven to broil and brown the barbecue glaze for 2 to 5 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
08 - Remove from oven and allow meatloaves to rest for 5 minutes prior to serving.

# Additional Information:

01 - For even cooking, use a food thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of 71°C is reached.
02 - Use parchment to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.