MEATLOAF-STUFFED ONIONS

Have you ever grilled or baked a batch of meatloaf-stuffed onions? They are incredibly easy to make and burst with flavor, all while being served in their own little onion bowls.

We love to travel, occasionally camp, and barbecue, especially during the summertime! Individual servings are always a hit with the kids, and these meatloaf-stuffed onions make for a fun and delicious meal. Perfect for camping, grilling, or even baking in the oven, these onions are a must-try for any adventure!

I first used onions as “bowls” when I made mozzarella-stuffed bacon-wrapped onions, and they turned out so heavenly that I knew I needed to use onions like this more often. They are easy to transform into bowls, infuse the dish with their wonderful flavor, and are quite affordable too. You’ll love this recipe!

We’ve baked these in the oven wrapped in the same way, and they turn out just as delicious. Simply adjust the timing based on your preferred level of doneness for meatloaf. The recipe is simple, straightforward, and packed with flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also a crowd-pleaser. The combination of juicy meatloaf and the sweet, savory taste of baked onions is irresistible. Plus, it’s a fun twist on traditional meatloaf, perfect for individual servings.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl
• Sharp knife
• Baking dish with sides
• Toothpicks
• Oven or grill

Ingredients

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 1 cup bread crumbs
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (plus more for topping)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 3-4 medium to large yellow onions
• 1 package of bacon

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, beaten egg, milk, 1/2 cup of BBQ sauce, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix thoroughly with your hands until well combined.
3. Cut the top and bottom off each onion, cut in half, and peel off the skin. Separate the onion into layers, using the larger outer layers.
4. Take your meatloaf mixture and stuff it between two onion layers, essentially creating an onion seal around a large meatball.
5. Wrap each meat-stuffed onion ball with three slices of bacon and secure with toothpicks.
6. Place the wrapped onions in a baking dish with sides to catch the grease and bake for approximately 40 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Brush additional BBQ sauce over the top and bake for an additional 5 minutes.

Tips for Success

To ensure your meatloaf-stuffed onions are a hit, make sure to choose onions that are large enough to hold a generous portion of the meat mixture. Secure the bacon well with toothpicks to keep everything in place while baking or grilling.

Additional Tips and Variations

You can experiment with different flavors by adding cheese or herbs to the meat mixture. For a spicy kick, try adding chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Calories: Approximately 450
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fat: 30g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture and stuff the onions, then refrigerate until you’re ready to bake or grill.

What other sauces can I use?
Feel free to use any sauce you prefer, such as marinara, teriyaki, or even a spicy sriracha glaze.

Conclusion

These meatloaf-stuffed onions are a delightful twist on a classic dish. Give them a try and experience the savory blend of flavors for yourself. We’d love to hear how they turn out for you, so please share your experiences in the comments below!