Turkey Bacon Mushroom Swiss Cheese Meatloaf is a flavorful twist on traditional meatloaf. Made with lean ground turkey, savory mushrooms, crispy bacon, and melted Swiss cheese, this meatloaf is tender, juicy, and packed with delicious flavors. It’s perfect for a comforting family dinner or as a make-ahead meal that’s sure to impress.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz mushrooms, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 1/2 lbs ground turkey
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled turkey bacon
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until softened.
- Add the minced garlic and chopped mushrooms. Cook for an additional 5-6 minutes, or until the mushrooms release their moisture and begin to brown.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and dried thyme. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Step 3: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, and egg.
- Add the cooked mushroom mixture and crumbled turkey bacon. Mix until well combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Meatloaf
- Transfer half of the meat mixture to the prepared baking sheet or loaf pan and shape it into a loaf.
- Create a shallow trench in the middle of the loaf and fill it with the shredded Swiss cheese.
- Place the remaining meat mixture over the cheese and shape it to seal in the cheese.
Step 5: Bake the Meatloaf
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Step 6: Serve
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
- Slice and serve warm. Enjoy the rich flavors of this comforting meatloaf!
Cooking Tips & Notes
- Ground Turkey: Use lean ground turkey for a healthier option, but avoid extra lean as it may result in a drier meatloaf.
- Cheese: Shredded Swiss cheese melts beautifully, but you can use Gruyere for a similar flavor.
- Breadcrumbs: Panko or regular breadcrumbs work well for this recipe. You can also use gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.
Variations
- Stuffed with Spinach: Add a layer of sautéed spinach along with the Swiss cheese for extra greens.
- Spicy Meatloaf: Add 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the meat mixture for a bit of heat.
- BBQ Bacon Meatloaf: Drizzle barbecue sauce over the top of the meatloaf before baking for a smoky, sweet flavor.
- Mozzarella Cheese Substitute: Swap out the Swiss cheese for mozzarella for a gooey, milder flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Use Regular Bacon Instead of Turkey Bacon?
Yes, you can use regular bacon if you prefer. Just cook and crumble it before adding it to the meatloaf mixture.
2. How Do I Store Leftover Meatloaf?
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
3. Can I Freeze Meatloaf?
Yes, you can freeze the meatloaf. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
4. Can I Use Ground Beef Instead of Turkey?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef for ground turkey if you prefer. The cooking time will remain the same.
Serving Suggestions
- Mashed Potatoes: Serve with creamy mashed potatoes for a classic, comforting meal.
- Green Beans: Pair with steamed or sautéed green beans for a healthy side dish.
- Salad: Serve with a fresh green salad dressed with vinaigrette for a lighter option.
- Gravy: Drizzle with gravy for extra richness and flavor.
Turkey Bacon Mushroom Swiss Cheese Meatloaf is a delicious and hearty twist on the classic meatloaf recipe. With savory mushrooms, crispy bacon, and melted Swiss cheese, this dish is packed with flavor and comfort. Perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings, this meatloaf is sure to become a favorite. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the wonderful combination of flavors that make every bite satisfying!
