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### Instructions for Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf with Mushrooms and Cheese
#### Step 1: Prepare the Mushroom Filling
1. **Sauté the Mushrooms**: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes, or until they have softened and released their moisture.
2. **Season the Mushrooms**: Add the garlic powder, salt, and pepper, and cook for another 2 minutes. Set the mushrooms aside to cool slightly.
3. **Add the Cheese**: Once the mushrooms are slightly cooled, stir in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. The cheese will melt slightly, binding the mushrooms together.
#### Step 2: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture
1. **Mix the Meat**: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Use your hands or a spatula to mix until just combined. Avoid over-mixing, as this can result in a dense meatloaf.
#### Step 3: Assemble the Meatloaf
1. **Shape the Meatloaf**: Place a large sheet of parchment paper or plastic wrap on a clean surface. Transfer the meat mixture onto the paper and use your hands to shape it into a rectangular loaf, about 10 inches long and 5 inches wide.
2. **Add the Mushroom and Cheese Filling**: Make a small indentation down the center of the meatloaf to create a channel. Spoon the mushroom and cheese mixture into the channel and spread it out evenly.
3. **Seal the Meatloaf**: Carefully fold the sides of the meat over the filling, sealing it inside. Gently form the meatloaf into its final shape, ensuring the filling is completely encased.
#### Step 4: Wrap the Meatloaf in Bacon
1. **Wrap with Bacon**: Lay the bacon slices over the meatloaf, slightly overlapping each slice. If necessary, tuck the ends of the bacon underneath the meatloaf.
2. **Secure the Bacon**: For extra security, you can use toothpicks or kitchen twine to keep the bacon in place, but it should stay well-enough on its own as it cooks.
#### Step 5: Bake the Meatloaf
1. **Preheat the Oven**: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. **Bake the Meatloaf**: Transfer the bacon-wrapped meatloaf to a baking dish or a lined baking sheet. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). If you like your bacon extra crispy, you can broil the meatloaf for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of the cooking time.
3. **Rest the Meatloaf**: Once the meatloaf is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute and makes for a juicier meatloaf.
#### Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
1. **Slice and Serve**: Carefully slice the meatloaf into thick, juicy slices. Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
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### Tips for the Best Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf
– **Use Thick-Cut Bacon**: Thick-cut bacon will crisp up better and provide more flavor to the meatloaf. It also helps keep the meatloaf moist.
– **Experiment with Fillings**: Feel free to get creative with the filling! You can swap the mushrooms for other vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, and mix in different cheeses like cheddar or gouda.
– **Avoid Overcooking**: To ensure the meatloaf stays tender and juicy, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, and avoid overcooking.
– **Make Ahead**: You can prepare the meatloaf and wrap it in bacon ahead of time, then refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. This can be a great time-saver for busy nights.
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### Conclusion
This **Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf with Mushrooms and Cheese** is a hearty, flavorful dish that’s sure to be a hit at the dinner table. The combination of savory bacon, cheesy mushrooms, and tender meatloaf makes for an unforgettable meal. Whether you’re craving comfort food or looking for a new twist on an old favorite, this recipe will not disappoint. Give it a try, and watch your family and guests rave over this deliciously indulgent dish!
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