Bacon Meatloaf

This bacon meatloaf is a savory, comfort-food classic transformed into a Paleo and Whole30 friendly dish thats dairy-free, grain-free, and sugar-free dish. The best part is the crispy bacon that gets laced throughout creating the juiciest meatloaf you’ve ever had! My husband is not a meatloaf fan and he requests this one all the time! I know your family will too. Try some of our other meatloaf recipes like this Mississippi Meatloaf or French Onion Meatloaf.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Extra moisture: The rendered bacon fat prevents the lean beef from drying out during the baking process creating a tender and juicy meatloaf.

Versatile meal prep: Slice it up for packable lunches, easy weeknight dinners, or for breakfast with some fried eggs.

It’s Paleo and Whole30: Having no gluten, grains, or dairy, it is the perfect dish if you need to keep it Paleo or Whole30 friendly.

Ingredients You Will Need

Ground Beef: is chopped beef typically made from various cuts like chuck, round, or sirloin. I like Grass Roots Coop for my meat purchases.

Bacon: is a salt-cured pork product made from various cuts of the pig, usually the belly or less fatty parts of the back.

Almond Flour: is finer and made from blanched almonds, while almond meal is coarser and often includes the almond skins in its preparation.

Egg: are a good source of protein and vitamins and are one of the few foods that should be classified as “superfoods”.

Onion: an all-purpose onion most commonly used in cooking and has a strong flavor that mellows into a deep sweetness when cooked, caramelized, or roasted.

Ketchup: unsweetened ketchup allows the true sweetness from the tomatoes to shine through and is perfect for keeping this bacon meatloaf Whole30 friendly.

Italian Seasoning: is a versatile blend of dried herbs and spices including but not limited to basil, oregano, thyme, rosemary and marjoram. I like Primal Palate’s Amore Seasoning.

Salt and Black Pepper:  salt enhances and balances flavors. Meanwhile, ground black pepper adds a gentle heat.

Parsley: brings a burst of fresh, herby goodness and is used as both a garnish and an addition to various dishes, from salads and sauces to soups and stews.

Instructions

Preheat oven: to 350.

Cook your bacon: and crumble if you haven’t done so already.

Combine in a bowl: egg, almond flour, onions, spice, ketchup, parsley and chopped bacon.

Mix well: and form into shape.

Place in casserole dish: and top with ketchup, spreading out evenly over entire meatloaf.

Bake: for 45 minutes.

Enjoy!

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Mix Lightly: Overworking the meat leads to a tight, dense-like texture. Mixing the meatloaf ingredients just until everything comes together creates a deliciously juicy meatloaf!

Let it Rest: Always let the meatloaf rest for 10 to 15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute so they don’t leak all over your cutting board.

Cook the bacon ahead: I always make extra bacon whenever I am cooking it for breakfast so that I have some ready during the week to make this bacon meatloaf. It such a timesaver on a bust weeknight!

Recipe Variations

Ground Turkey: can be swapped for the beef if you prefer.

Barbecue Sauce: can be used instead of ketchup giving this bacon meatloaf a sweet and spicy tang.

Storage Tips

You can store this bacon meatloaf in the fridge for up to 4 days when placed in an airtight glass container. It also freezes well for up to 3 months when placed in an airtight glass container.

FAQ’s About Bacon Meatloaf

What to serve with it?

I like to serve it with green peas and mashed potatoes just like Mom used to do when we were growing up. Green beans, rice, or cauliflower rice are great sides too.

Can I make it ahead of time?

You can assemble the meatloaf mix and refrigerate it tightly covered for up to 24 hours before baking.

What kind of bacon is Whole30 compliant?

You must check labels for added sugar, nitrates, or sulfites. Most standard grocery store bacons contain cane sugar or maple syrup, which are not allowed. Look for certified sugar-free brands.