Ingredients:

  • 1 ½ lbs (680g) ground beef (80/20 for optimal flavor)
  • 1 cup (100g) breadcrumbs (preferably fresh)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped (about ½ cup)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup (plus more for topping)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • 8-10 strips of bacon (thick-cut preferred)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, salt, pepper, and thyme.
  3. Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
  4. Shape the mixture into a loaf shape and place it on a lined baking sheet.
  5. Wrap the meatloaf with bacon strips, overlapping them slightly and tucking the ends underneath.
  6. Spread additional ketchup on top for extra flavor.
  7. Bake for 60 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
  8. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.