Get ready to transform your appetizer game with these irresistible Bacon Meatloaf Bites that are guaranteed to make your guests go wild! Imagine tender, juicy mini meatloaves packed with crispy bacon and bursting with savory flavors, these bite-sized delights are not just an appetizer—they're a culinary experience that will have everyone asking for your secret recipe. Whether you're hosting a game day party, family gathering, or just craving something incredibly delicious, these hearty appetizers are about to become your new go-to crowd-pleaser!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 appetizers
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 lb bacon, chopped
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and chopped bacon. Use your hands or a spoon to mix them together until well combined.
- Add the breadcrumbs, ketchup, egg, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to the meat mixture. Mix everything together until all ingredients are evenly incorporated, being careful not to overmix.
- Using your hands, form the meat mixture into small, bite-sized meatloaf shapes, about 1 to
- 5 inches in diameter. You should be able to make approximately 12 appetizers.
- Place the formed meatloaf appetizers onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart to allow for even cooking.
- Once all the appetizers are arranged on the baking sheet, place them in the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the meatloaf appetizers are cooked through and the bacon is crispy.
- While the meatloaf appetizers are baking, prepare a simple dipping sauce if desired. You can mix additional ketchup with a dash of Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce for extra flavor.
- After the cooking time is up, remove the meatloaf appetizers from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help them firm up slightly.
- Serve the hearty bacon meatloaf appetizers warm with your dipping sauce on the side. Enjoy your delicious American-style appetizers!
Tips
- Use cold ingredients: Keep your ground beef and egg chilled to help the mixture bind better and maintain a more consistent texture.
- Don't overmix: Mix ingredients just until combined to prevent tough, dense meatloaves. Gentle handling is key!
- For extra crispiness, consider broiling the appetizers for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking to get a beautiful golden-brown exterior.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for perfectly cooked meatloaf bites.
- Make ahead tip: You can prepare these appetizers in advance and refrigerate them before baking, which helps the flavors meld together.
- For a flavor variation, experiment with different types of bacon or add finely chopped herbs like parsley or thyme to the mixture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 4g
Protein: 13g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 55mg
