THE RECIPE JOURNAL · Main Course
Buffalo-Style Meatloaf Enveloped in Bacon
If you love bold flavors and comforting classics, this spicy twist on a favorite meatloaf is sure to satisfy. Wrapped in crispy bacon and packed with tangy buffalo sauce, it’s a crowd-pleaser perfect for any meal.
FROM THE KITCHEN • Buffalo-Style Meatloaf Enveloped in Bacon
01 THE RECIPE
Let's make it.
Follow these steps for a delicious result. Tick off each step as you go.
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01
Step 1
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and cook the chopped bacon until it’s nearly crispy, about 5 to 10 minutes.
02
Step 2
While that’s cooking, pulse the onion, carrot, celery, red bell pepper, poblano pepper, mushrooms, and garlic in a food processor until they’re finely chopped. Add this veggie mix along with the rosemary to the bacon in the skillet. Cook everything together, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and get a bit sweeter—about 5 minutes.
03
Step 3
In a large bowl, combine the cooked veggies with the bread crumbs and milk. Let this mixture cool to room temperature before stirring in the egg, salt, Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, and cayenne. Then add the buffalo meat and mix everything together well with your hands until it’s evenly combined.
04
Step 4
Transfer the meat mixture to your prepared dish and shape it into a loaf about 9x5x3 inches. Lay the bacon strips over the top, crossing them and tucking the ends underneath to keep them in place.
05
Step 5
Whisk together the rice vinegar, brown sugar, and mustard to make a smooth glaze. Pop the meatloaf into the oven and bake it for 30 minutes. After that, brush the glaze over the top and keep baking until the meatloaf is cooked through and no longer pink inside—about another 30 minutes. It’s done when an instant-read thermometer hits 155°F (68°C). Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Why you’ll love it
This dish combines the bold, spicy flavors of buffalo sauce with the comforting heartiness of meatloaf. Wrapping it in bacon adds a smoky, crispy layer that makes each bite irresistible. It’s a perfect twist on a classic that will please both meat lovers and fans of spicy food.
How to serve
This rich and flavorful meatloaf pairs well with simple sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. Consider serving it with ranch or blue cheese dressing to balance the heat. A cold beer or a crisp cider can also complement the bold flavors nicely.
Storage & leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, cover loosely with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through, preserving the bacon’s texture as much as possible. You can also freeze slices for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
