Juicy, cheesy, and topped with smoky bacon and caramelized mushrooms. Your next dinner favorite.
Why This Meatloaf Is a Total Winner
Meatloaf doesn’t have to be boring.
With savory Swiss cheese, crispy bacon, and sautéed mushrooms, this Bacon Mushroom Swiss Meatloaf brings flavor, texture, and comfort all in one bite.
This meatloaf:
✅ Packed with flavorful cheese, smoky bacon, and mushrooms
✅ A twist on a classic favorite
✅ Perfect for meal prep or family dinners
✅ Comforting and hearty without being heavy
✅ High-protein and filling
The combination of mushrooms and cheese melts right into the meatloaf, creating a tender, juicy loaf everyone will love. Add the bacon, and you’ve got a dish that’s anything but ordinary.
Ingredients (Serves 4-6)
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ground beef (80/20) | 1 lb (450g) | You can use turkey or chicken for a leaner version |
| Bacon | 4 slices | Chopped for topping and inside meatloaf |
| Grated Swiss cheese | 1 cup | More for extra cheesy goodness |
| Onion | 1 small, finely diced | Adds flavor to the meatloaf mix |
| Mushrooms (button or cremini) | 1 cup (sliced) | Sautéed before adding to meatloaf |
| Dried thyme | 1 tsp | Herbaceous flavor |
| Ketchup (for topping) | ½ cup | Can add a little extra sweetness or spice |
| Egg | 1 large | Helps bind the meatloaf together |
| Panko breadcrumbs | ½ cup | Adds light texture, can sub with crushed crackers or oat flour |
| Garlic powder | ½ tsp | Adds subtle background flavor |
| Salt & pepper | To taste | Season to your preference |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Sauté the Mushrooms and Bacon
- In a pan, cook the bacon until crispy, about 5–7 minutes.
- Remove and set aside. Leave a little bacon fat in the pan, and add the sliced mushrooms.
- Sauté the mushrooms for 3–5 minutes until tender and caramelized.
- Remove from heat and set both bacon and mushrooms aside to cool slightly.
2️⃣ Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish or loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add in the cooked bacon and sautéed mushrooms (and any juice from the pan).
- Gently mix until just combined — don’t overwork the meat.
3️⃣ Assemble the Meatloaf
- Transfer the meat mixture into your prepared loaf pan. Shape into a loaf shape if using a baking dish.
- Spread ketchup evenly on top for a sweet, tangy glaze.
- Sprinkle the Swiss cheese on top and bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
4️⃣ Serve and Enjoy!
- Let the meatloaf rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
- Slice into 1-inch thick pieces.
- Serve with mashed potatoes, a side salad, or roasted vegetables.
Storage & Reheat
| Storage Method | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fridge | 3–4 days | Store leftovers in an airtight container |
| Freezer | 1–2 months | Wrap tightly in plastic and foil |
| Reheat | In the oven at 350°F for 10-12 minutes, or microwave for 2-3 minutes |
Variations & Customizations
| Want This? | Try This: |
|---|---|
| Spicy kick | Add hot sauce or chili flakes to the meat mixture |
| Extra cheesy | Add more cheese inside and on top of the meatloaf before baking |
| Veggie-loaded | Mix in spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrients |
| Gluten-free | Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or oat flour for the binder |
| Turkey or chicken | Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version |
High-Protein Version
- Use lean ground beef or ground turkey breast to reduce fat content and increase protein.
- Add egg whites (or extra whole eggs) to increase protein without adding extra fat.
- Increase cheese to 1½ cups and reduce breadcrumbs for more protein and less carbs.
Protein per serving (high-protein version): 30–35g per slice
Macros (Per Serving, Approx.)
- Calories: 400–450
- Protein: 30g–35g
- Carbs: 15g–20g (depending on breadcrumbs used)
- Fat: 25g–30g
- Fiber: 2g
High-protein version can reduce fat and carbs by using lean meat and fewer breadcrumbs.