Can you believe it? I’m actually posting a new MAKE AHEAD recipe! I’m sorry that it has been so long! Between teaching, reviewing products, remodeling our kitchen, and spending time with my new puppy, I haven’t had much time for new recipes around here.
You’re going to love this meatloaf! I have made several batches of it already and it sure comes in handy when I need something quick to make after a long day at work. It’s so easy to prepare! You can cook the frozen meatloaves straight from the freezer in 40-45 minutes!
The inspiration for this recipe came from a delicious meatloaf that I enjoyed at my mom’s house. Here is the secret to my mom’s tender meatloaf…
Fresh Meatball & Meatloaf Mix (a blend of ground beef, pork and veal)
Do you use this blend of meat in your recipes? I think it makes a huge difference.
The meatloaf comes out so juicy and tender!
My mom also uses a packet of Ranch Salad Dressing Seasoning Mix in the meatloaf.
I measure ½ cup of the meatloaf mixture and place it on the center of some plastic wrap.
Then I secure a slice of bacon around it with a toothpick.
This recipe makes 12 servings, but you can always make them bigger and cook them a bit longer.
Place them in a freezer bag and make sure to remove as much air as possible.
I usually cook two for Dave and one for me (but to be honest, I would love to eat two!)
These frozen mini meatloaves would be great to give to a new Mom or someone recuperating from surgery or an illness. It will help them get part of their dinner made in a jiffy. Give them a try and let me know how you like them!
Make Ahead Bacon-Wrapped Mini Meatloaves
Ingredients
- 2½ lbs. fresh meatball and meatloaf mix (ground beef, pork and veal)
- ½ teaspoon ground pepper
- ¼ to ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup milk
- ½ cup ketchup
- ½ cup seasoned bread crumbs
- 1 oz. packet Ranch salad dressing and seasoning mix
- 12 slices of bacon (I use any lower sodium brand.)
Preparing the meatloaves
- Mix all of the ingredients (except the bacon) in a large bowl.
- Measure ½ cup of the mixture and place it on the center of some plastic wrap. Secure a piece of bacon around the meatloaf with a tooth pick. Wrap tightly.
- Place the wrapped meatloaves in a freezer bag. Be sure to remove as much air as possible from the bag.
- Label the bag. Don’t forget the date! Include cooking directions.
Cooking Directions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F and spray the baking sheet with nonstick spray.
- Unwrap the frozen meatloaves and place them on the sheet pan.
- Cook for 40 minutes or until the center registers 160°F with an instant thermometer. If you want the meat and bacon to be more browned on top, broil for a minute, but watch it carefully so it doesn’t burn.
*Freeze up to 3 months.
This recipe was shared on the following Linky Parties: Foodie Friends Friday, Full Plate Thursday, Foodie Friday, I’m Lovin’ It, Strut Yourself Saturday, Your Great Idea, Share It Saturday, Friday Link Party, Your Creative Timeout Party
These sound so good. Love your blog – thanks!
This is such a good idea, and would work well for busy nights…much better than frozen pizza (which seems to be our go-to).
I love meatloaf! Im going to have to try this recipe very soon! =)
Congratulations on your new puppy!
I know for a fact that if I made these, they would disappear in no time flat. This is an awesome recipe and I definitely have to try it soon.
Oooo, I really like this idea. Now that the kids are gone, it’s perfect to do things this way!
What a great idea! I love the way you froze them! Thank you for sharing on Foodie Friends Friday! Please come back next week and join us again!
These sound wonderful. Thanks for sharing on Foodie Friends Friday!
Good Morning Jane,
Thank you so much for sharing your awesome recipe with Full Plate Thursday. Hope you have a lovely week and come back soon!
Miz Helen
Oooh Jane! These look fabulous! Pinned and featuring tomorrow! Thanks so much for sharing at Mom On Timeout!
Hey, I recognize that meatloaf mix!! I live 2 miles from their building in Collingswood. Funny, because I’ve never seen their products in the store! LOL They’re right across the street from our nearest Aldi Market.
Honestly, though, I’ve never used meatloaf mix to make meatloaf. The only way I’ve ever made it was with ground beef. Is there really a difference?
I think it really makes it more tender!
This looks delish and I love the idea I am a huge fan of having things ready to go in the freezer.
Our party is live today and we would like to invite you to share this there: http://thebusybhive.blogspot.com/
Hope to see you there.
Thanks!
The Busy Bee’s,
Myrna and Joye.
Congratulations!
Your recipe is featured on Full Plate Thursday this week. Have a great St. Patrick’s Day and enjoy your new Red Plate.
Come Back Soon!
Miz Helen
This is such a cute idea…something my kids would love! Thanks so much for stopping over and sharing Jane :)
Love this recipe. I have featured it on this week’s Wonderful Wednesday Blog Hop. ♥
Hope you can stop by. :)
How long and what temp. would you cook the mini meatloaves if they are fresh… not frozen. Thanks.
Cook at 400 degrees F for 30-40 minutes. When it reaches 160 degrees F, you might want to broil it for a minute or two the crisp up the bacon.