Cheese Chicken Bacon Ranch Loaf
Description:
This Cheese Chicken Bacon Ranch Loaf is a savory, comforting dish perfect for a family dinner or meal prep. It combines ground chicken with crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and creamy ranch seasoning, baked into a moist, flavorful loaf. It’s like a meatloaf but packed with extra cheesy, smoky, and herby goodness that everyone will love.
Total Time:
Preparation: 15-20 minute
Cooking: 50-60 minutes
Resting: 10 minutes
Total: About 1 hour 20-30 minutes
Ingredients:
1.5 lbs (700g) ground chicken (or ground turkey)
6 slices bacon, cooked until crisp and chopped
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild, your preference)
1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix (or about 2 tbsp homemade ranch seasoning
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-style)
1/4 cup milk
2 large eggs
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup finely chopped onion (optional)
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking spray or olive oil (for greasing the pan)
Equipment:
Mixing bowl
Loaf pan (8×4 inches works well)
Skillet (for bacon)
Measuring cups and spoon
Knife and chopping board
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven and prepare bacon:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Coo the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Drain on paper towels and chop into small pieces. Set aside.
2. Mix the wet ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and ranch seasoning until well combined.
3. Add chicken and other ingredients:
Add the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, chopped onion (if using), and half of the shredded cheese to the bowl.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Mix everything gently but thoroughly until evenly combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the loaf tender.
4. Add bacon and herbs:
Fold in the chopped bacon and parsley.
5. Prepare the loaf pan:
Lightly grease the loaf pan with cooking spray or olive oil.
Transfer the chicken mixture into the loaf pan and press down gently to shape it evenly.
6. Top with cheese:
Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese evenly over the top of the loaf.
7. Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melted and golden.
If you want a crispier top, you can broil the loaf for 2-3 minutes at the end—just watch carefully to avoid burning.
8. Rest and serve:
Remove the loaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute and makes it easier to cut.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve slices with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
It’s also great as a sandwich filling or in wraps!
FAQ:
Q: Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
A: Yes! Ground turkey works just as well and has a similar texture and flavor.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Absolutely. You can prepare the mixture a day ahead, keep it covered in the fridge, then bake when ready. Leftovers keep well for 3-4 days in the fridge.
Q: Can I freeze it?
A: Yes, freeze the cooked loaf whole or in slices. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Q: What if I don’t have ranch seasoning?
A: You can use a mix of dried parsley, dill, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt to mimic ranch seasoning