There’s a certain warmth that fills the kitchen the moment you unwrap the crispy bacon for Bill Blass’s Meatloaf, a dish that has become a symbol of home-cooked comfort. The intoxicating scent of sizzling bacon mingling with the savory blend of beef, veal, and pork instantly transports me back to cozy family dinners where laughter and good food reigned supreme. This isn’t just any ordinary meatloaf; it boasts a sumptuous texture that’s satisfying without compromising on flavor, all enhanced by the aromatic touch of sautéed onions and celery. Perfect for those evenings when you crave something hearty yet easy to whip up, this bacon-wrapped marvel is sure to impress whether you’re serving it on a hectic weeknight or at a festive gathering. Join me as we dive into this delicious recipe, guaranteed to bring a touch of nostalgia and plenty of smiles to your table!
Why is Bill Blass’s Meatloaf a must-try?
Savoriness at Its Finest: Each bite offers the rich, indulgent flavor of a classic meatloaf, enhanced by crispy bacon for an extra layer of satisfaction.
Family-Friendly Appeal: Perfect for any family gathering, this dish is sure to please picky eaters and foodies alike.
Simple Yet Impressive: The straightforward cooking process means you can create a crowd-pleaser without spending hours in the kitchen.
Versatile Variations: Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite veggies or cheeses for a personal touch!
Time-Saving Delight: Bake a big loaf ahead of time, making it ideal for meal prep and easy weeknight dinners.
Bill Blass’s Meatloaf Ingredients
• Dive into this delightful dish with these essential ingredients!
For the Meat Mixture
- Ground Beef Sirloin – Provides a rich flavor and hearty texture, the star of Bill Blass’s Meatloaf.
- Ground Veal – Adds moisture and collagen, making each bite melt in your mouth; can be swapped with more ground beef if unavailable.
- Ground Pork – Contributes a velvety richness; feel free to substitute with ground turkey for a lighter option.
For the Vegetables
- Chopped Celery – Gives a satisfying crunch and aromatic flavor; swap in diced bell pepper for a sweeter touch.
- Chopped Onion – Acts as a flavorful base; use shallots for a milder taste if desired.
- Chopped Fresh Parsley – Adds a fresh, vibrant note; dried parsley works too, but fresh provides more punch.
For the Binding
- Sour Cream – Keeps the meatloaf moist, adding a touch of tang; Greek yogurt makes a healthier alternative.
- Soft Bread Crumbs – Ensures a great structure and absorbs moisture; swap with crushed crackers or gluten-free bread if needed.
- Egg – Binds all the ingredients together; for a vegan option, flaxseed meal can serve as a substitute.
For Seasoning
- Dried Thyme and Marjoram – Introduces herbal notes; fresh herbs can enhance flavors even more if available.
- Kosher Salt and Black Pepper – Enhances the overall taste; adjust to your preference for perfect seasoning.
- Worcestershire Sauce – Adds umami depth; soy sauce can be used as a convenient replacement.
For the Topping
- Heinz Chili Sauce – Perfectly crowns the meatloaf with its zesty finish; ketchup may be used, though it is less zingy.
- Bacon – Lends a crispy, savory topping; turkey bacon can be used for a lighter twist.
Explore these ingredients and get ready to create a comforting classic that your family will love!
How to Make Bill Blass’s Meatloaf
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Preheat the oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare an 8-by-4-inch loaf pan by lightly oiling it to ensure easy removal after baking.
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Sauté the vegetables: In a skillet over medium heat, melt some butter and sauté the chopped celery and onion until they turn soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Let them cool before mixing.
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Combine the mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled sautéed vegetables with the ground meats, fresh parsley, sour cream, soft bread crumbs, thyme, marjoram, kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir until all ingredients are well incorporated.
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Add the egg mixture: Whisk the egg together with Worcestershire sauce in a separate bowl, then pour it into the meat mixture. Mix thoroughly until everything is well combined.
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Shape the loaf: With clean hands, shape the mixture into a loaf and place it into the prepared loaf pan, ensuring it’s evenly packed.
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Top with chili sauce and bacon: Spread a generous layer of Heinz chili sauce over the top of the meatloaf, then layer the bacon slices artfully on top, covering as much surface area as possible.
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Bake to perfection: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour, or until the top is nicely browned and the loaf is firm to the touch.
Optional: Serve with a side of mashed potatoes for a comforting, hearty meal!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Bill Blass’s Meatloaf?
Build your perfect meal around this indulgent dish that promises heartwarming satisfaction with every bite.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These fluffy, buttery potatoes soak up the meatloaf’s savory juices, creating a comforting dish that will warm your soul. A classic pairing that never disappoints!
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Garlic Green Beans: The crispness of sautéed green beans infused with garlic provides a refreshing contrast to the rich meatloaf while adding a pop of color to your plate.
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Roasted Vegetables: A medley of sweet carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini roasted to perfection adds a delightful sweetness alongside the savory meatloaf and warms the heart.
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Classic Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and creamy dressing create a light yet flavorful contrast, making the meal feel balanced and refreshing while keeping the focus on the meatloaf.
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Buttery Corn on the Cob: Sweet, juicy corn on the cob brushed with melted butter is an irresistible side that brings a cheerful touch, perfect for family gatherings!
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Herb-Infused Quinoa: Light and nutty quinoa cooked with fresh herbs can serve as a healthy, protein-packed alternative to heavier sides, complementing the meatloaf’s rich flavors beautifully.
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Homemade Coleslaw: The crunchy and tangy slaw adds a refreshing bite that balances the meatloaf’s richness — a marvelous textural contrast you won’t want to miss!
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Red Wine: Pair with a glass of smooth red wine that brings out the savory notes in the meatloaf, elevating your dining experience to an entirely new level.
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Chocolate Cake: For dessert, indulge in a slice of rich chocolate cake; its sweetness pairs perfectly after the hearty meal, leaving everyone with a happy ending!
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Apple Crisp: Warm, spiced apple crisp topped with vanilla ice cream makes a delightful ending to your meal, adding warmth and nostalgia to your gathering.
How to Store and Freeze Bill Blass’s Meatloaf
Fridge: Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to maintain moisture.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, place in a covered dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes until heated thoroughly, ensuring the juiciness of Bill Blass’s meatloaf remains intact.
Make-Ahead: Prepare the meatloaf up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge. This allows flavors to meld beautifully before baking, making it even more delicious!
Expert Tips for Bill Blass’s Meatloaf
- Cool Veggies First: Ensure the sautéed vegetables are completely cool before adding them to the meat mixture, preventing the meat from cooking prematurely.
- Perfect Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; it should read 160°F (70°C) to ensure safety and ideal texture.
- Avoid Uneven Baking: Shape the meatloaf uniformly for even cooking; a longer loaf may require rotating halfway for consistent heat distribution.
- Crispy Bacon Finish: For crispy bacon, place the meatloaf under the broiler for the last 10 minutes of cooking; keep a close eye to avoid burning!
- Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the meatloaf a day in advance and store it in the fridge, allowing flavors to meld beautifully for richer taste when baked.
- Flavor Variations: Experiment with adding grated cheese or finely chopped veggies to the mix for a delightful twist in your Bill Blass’s meatloaf!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing Bill Blass’s Meatloaf ahead of time is a fantastic way to streamline your meal prep for busy weeknights. You can assemble the meatloaf mixture and shape it into a loaf up to 24 hours in advance. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. If you want to prep even earlier, formed meatloafs can be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking. When it’s time to cook, preheat your oven, add the chili sauce, layer on the bacon, and pop it in until it reaches that perfect brown crust. This way, you’ll have a comforting meal ready with minimal last-minute effort, maintaining all its deliciousness!
Bill Blass’s Meatloaf Variations
Get creative and make this beloved meatloaf your own with delightful twists and substitutions!
- Healthier Twist: Swap ground beef for ground turkey for a lighter, leaner option without sacrificing flavor.
- Cheesy Goodness: Add shredded cheese, like sharp cheddar or gouda, into the meat mixture for a melty surprise in every bite.
- Veggie Boost: Incorporate finely grated carrots or zucchini to sneak in extra vegetables while maintaining that moist texture.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to give your meatloaf a bit of heat and excitement.
- Herb Infusion: Swap dried thyme and marjoram for fresh herbs, like basil or cilantro, to brighten up the dish with vibrant flavors.
- Bacon Alternatives: Try turkey bacon or even prosciutto for a different kind of savory flavor; let your taste buds be the guide.
- Alternative Binders: Use mashed avocado instead of sour cream for a creamy yet healthy binding option; it adds great flavor, too!
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the regular bread crumbs with gluten-free ones or crushed oats to enjoy this classic without the gluten.
Let these variations inspire you to create your own unique version of Bill Blass’s Meatloaf—because every family deserves a version that feels just right!
Bill Blass’s Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf Recipe FAQs
What type of ingredients should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture in Bill Blass’s Meatloaf, opt for fresh ingredients. Choose ground beef sirloin for richness, and use fresh parsley instead of dried for a vibrant taste. Also, it’s essential that the vegetables, especially the onions and celery, are sautéed until soft—this adds a sweeter flavor profile to the meatloaf.
How should I store my meatloaf leftovers?
Very easily! Any leftover meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in your fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember to let it cool completely before sealing it up. To reheat, pop it back into the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes to rewarm while keeping its moistness intact!
Can I freeze Bill Blass’s Meatloaf?
Yes, indeed! To freeze the meatloaf, first allow it to cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to ensure it’s air-tight, and it will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
What if my meatloaf is too dry?
If you find that your meatloaf turns out dry, it could be due to overbaking or not enough moisture in the mixture. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure you reach the necessary internal temperature of 160°F (70°C), as a final check before you finish baking. Additionally, add a little more sour cream or even a splash of beef broth before shaping the meatloaf to enhance moisture retention.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Totally! For those with dietary restrictions, you can adapt Bill Blass’s Meatloaf to meet various needs. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free bread crumbs or crushed crackers. Additionally, if someone is avoiding dairy, Greek yogurt can substitute sour cream without losing creaminess. If you’re cooking for furry friends, remember to hold back on the seasoning; plain meatloaf without added spices can be a treat for your pets!
Can I add vegetables to the meatloaf?
Absolutely! You can enhance the nutrition of Bill Blass’s Meatloaf by sneaking in finely chopped veggies like carrots or zucchini. Simply grate or finely dice them and add them along with the sautéed onions and celery. This not only boosts the nutritional value but also adds moisture and flavor, making it a delightful addition for the family!
Bill Blass’s Meatloaf: The Ultimate Comfort Food Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly oil an 8-by-4-inch loaf pan.
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and sauté the chopped celery and onion until soft, about 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine cooled vegetables, ground meats, fresh parsley, sour cream, bread crumbs, thyme, marjoram, salt, and pepper.
- Whisk the egg with Worcestershire sauce in a separate bowl and pour it into the meat mixture.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared pan.
- Spread chili sauce on top and layer with bacon slices.
- Bake for about 1 hour, until browned and firm to touch.