Bacon-Wrapped Cheese and Ham Stuffed Meatloaf with Potato Salad

### **Instructions**

#### **Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf Filling**
1. **Mix the meatloaf ingredients**: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, milk, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until the ingredients are fully incorporated. Be careful not to overwork the mixture to keep the meatloaf tender.
2. **Prepare the stuffing**: Lay a sheet of plastic wrap or parchment paper on your countertop. Place the meat mixture on top and use your hands to flatten it into a rectangle shape. The size of the rectangle should be large enough to roll the meat around the filling – about 9×12 inches.
3. **Stuff the meatloaf**: Layer the slices of ham on top of the flattened meat mixture, followed by the shredded cheese. Leave a little border around the edges to prevent the filling from spilling out when you roll it.

#### **Step 2: Roll and Wrap the Meatloaf**
1. **Roll the meatloaf**: Carefully lift the edge of the plastic wrap or parchment paper and start rolling the meatloaf into a log. Make sure to roll it tightly but gently, so the filling stays in place. Pinch the seams at the ends to seal the roll.
2. **Wrap with bacon**: Lay the slices of bacon on a separate sheet of parchment paper or directly on a baking sheet. Lay the rolled meatloaf on top of the bacon slices. Start wrapping the bacon around the meatloaf, making sure to cover it evenly. The bacon not only adds flavor but also helps to keep the meatloaf moist as it cooks.

#### **Step 3: Cook the Meatloaf**
1. **Preheat the oven**: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. **Sear the meatloaf**: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the bacon-wrapped meatloaf on all sides until the bacon is golden and slightly crispy – this should take about 4-5 minutes per side.
3. **Transfer to the oven**: Once the meatloaf is seared, transfer it to a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45-60 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
4. **Rest before slicing**: Let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring that the meatloaf remains moist and flavorful.

#### **Step 4: Prepare the Potato Salad**
1. **Boil the potatoes**: While the meatloaf is baking, place the cubed potatoes in a large pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook the potatoes until they are fork-tender, about 10-12 minutes. Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly.
2. **Make the dressing**: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, vinegar, salt, and pepper. Stir until the dressing is smooth and well combined.
3. **Combine the ingredients**: Add the cooked potatoes, chopped boiled eggs, red onion, and parsley to the bowl with the dressing. Stir gently to combine until the potatoes are coated in the creamy dressing. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

#### **Step 5: Serve and Enjoy**
1. **Slice the meatloaf**: Slice the bacon-wrapped meatloaf into thick, juicy slices. Serve it alongside the creamy potato salad for a complete meal.
2. **Garnish and serve**: Garnish the plate with extra fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color. Serve immediately and enjoy the indulgent, comforting flavors of this incredible dish.

### **Why This Recipe Works**

This **Bacon-Wrapped Cheese and Ham Stuffed Meatloaf** is the perfect combination of classic comfort and indulgence. The bacon adds a crispy, smoky layer of flavor that perfectly complements the juicy, cheesy filling. The ham brings a savory, salty note that enhances the richness of the meatloaf, while the cheese ensures every bite is melt-in-your-mouth delicious.

The accompanying **potato salad** provides a cool, creamy contrast to the savory meatloaf, balancing the richness of the dish with its tangy dressing and tender potatoes. Together, they create a meal that’s both hearty and satisfying, with a variety of flavors and textures that are sure to please everyone at the table.

### **Tips for Perfecting the Dish**

– **Use high-quality bacon**: Thick-cut bacon will provide the best texture and flavor when wrapped around the meatloaf. It’s important to use bacon that can crisp up nicely to create that perfect contrast with the tender meatloaf.
– **Let the meatloaf rest**: After baking, allow the meatloaf to rest before slicing it. This helps the juices redistribute and prevents the meatloaf from falling apart when you cut into it.
– **Customize the filling**: Feel free to get creative with the stuffing. You can add sautéed onions, mushrooms, or even spinach for added flavor and nutrition.
– **Make ahead**: You can prepare the meatloaf and potato salad ahead of time. Simply store the assembled meatloaf in the fridge until you’re ready to cook it, and chill the potato salad until serving.

### **Final Thoughts**

**Bacon-Wrapped Cheese and Ham Stuffed Meatloaf with Potato Salad** is the ultimate comfort food that’s as indulgent as it is satisfying. The combination of smoky bacon, cheesy filling, and creamy potato salad creates a meal that’s both hearty and balanced. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just a cozy family dinner, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy.

So, grab your apron and get ready to enjoy a meal that’s full of flavor, comfort, and love – straight from your kitchen to the dinner table!