Pioneer Woman Meatloaf (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Meatloaf

01 - 1 cup whole milk
02 - 6 slices white bread
03 - 2 pounds ground beef (80% lean)
04 - 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
05 - 1/4 teaspoon seasoned salt
06 - 3/4 teaspoons salt
07 - Freshly ground black pepper
08 - 1/3 cup minced fresh parsley
09 - 4 eggs, beaten
10 - 12 slices thin-cut bacon

→ Sauce

11 - 1 1/2 cups ketchup
12 - 1/3 cup brown sugar
13 - 1 teaspoon dry mustard
14 - 1 dash Tabasco sauce

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F).
02 - Place bread slices in a large bowl and pour milk over them. Allow to soak for 5 minutes.
03 - Add remaining meatloaf ingredients to the soaked bread. Combine thoroughly using your hands, ensuring bread is well incorporated without overmixing the meat.
04 - Shape the mixture into a loaf approximately 13 cm (5 inches) wide. Place on a broiler pan to allow fat drainage. For easier cleanup, line the bottom of the pan with foil.
05 - Arrange bacon slices over the top of the loaf, carefully tucking ends underneath. Position strips adjacent but not overlapping to facilitate easy slicing between bacon pieces after cooking.
06 - Combine all sauce ingredients in a bowl. Brush one-third of the mixture over the meatloaf.
07 - Bake on the middle rack for 45 minutes.
08 - Remove from oven and brush another third of the sauce over the meatloaf. Return to oven for additional 25 minutes.
09 - Remove from oven and allow to rest for 10 minutes before slicing to retain juices. Verify internal temperature reaches 71°C (160°F) with a meat thermometer.
10 - Slice and serve with remaining sauce. Pairs excellently with mashed potatoes and roasted green beans.

# Notes:

01 - Cutting the meatloaf too early will cause the juices to escape, resulting in a drier texture.
02 - Using a meat thermometer ensures food safety by confirming the center has reached the proper temperature.