This Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Extravaganza is a fun twist on a classic dish! Packed with juicy chicken, cheesy goodness, and tasty ham, it brings a party to your table.
Honestly, who doesn’t love a meatloaf with a surprise inside? I like to add a side of mashed potatoes for a cozy meal. Plus, leftovers make for great sandwiches the next day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: Ground chicken is lean and gives a light texture to the meatloaf. If you’re looking for a richer taste, try ground turkey or even a mix of ground beef and chicken.
Breadcrumbs: I use traditional breadcrumbs for this recipe, but you can substitute with panko for extra crunch or gluten-free breadcrumbs if you have dietary restrictions.
Dijon Mustard: This adds a tangy bite to the sauce. If you prefer a milder flavor, yellow mustard works well. For a twist, try spicy brown mustard!
Swiss Cheese: Swiss cheese melts beautifully and adds creaminess. Can’t find it? Substitute with provolone, mozzarella, or even gouda for a different flavor profile.
Parmesan Cheese: I love using freshly grated Parmesan for topping. If you’re in a pinch, canned Parmesan works too, but the texture won’t be as nice.
How Can I Ensure My Meatloaf Holds Together?
Getting a meatloaf to hold its shape can be tricky. Here’s how to help it stay perfectly together:
- Don’t skip the bread. Breadcrumbs help bind the mixture and absorb moisture, giving it a firm hold.
- Add enough moisture. The egg and milk in the recipe help with moisture and binding. Make sure they’re well mixed in.
- Don’t overmix. While you want everything combined, overmixing can lead to a dense loaf. Just mix until incorporated.
How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Extravaganza
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 oz ham, diced
- 4 oz Swiss cheese, diced (plus extra for topping)
For the Sauce and Topping:
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (for topping)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Extravaganza takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 1 hour to bake. So, you’ll spend a little over an hour in the kitchen before enjoying a flavorful and hearty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, grease or line a loaf pan with parchment paper. This will make removing the meatloaf much easier once it’s done!
2. Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined. Don’t be afraid to use your hands; they work great for this!
3. Add the Flavor Boosters:
Carefully fold in the diced ham and Swiss cheese into the meat mixture. Make sure they are evenly distributed throughout so every bite is filled with delicious flavor!
4. Shape the Meatloaf:
Transfer the tasty meat mixture into your prepared loaf pan. Shape it into a loaf, making sure it’s looking nice and even on top. We want that perfect meatloaf shape!
5. Make the Topping Sauce:
In a separate bowl, mix together the Dijon mustard and mayonnaise until smooth. Spread this mixture generously over the top of your meatloaf. It adds a lovely zing to every bite!
6. Add the Final Touches:
Now it’s time to sprinkle some extra Swiss cheese on top of the meatloaf. Finish it off with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for a nice golden crust during baking.
7. Bake the Meatloaf:
Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour. It’s ready when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the top is beautifully golden brown. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
8. Rest and Slice:
Once your meatloaf is baked, carefully remove it from the oven. Let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices settle so that your slices stay moist and delicious!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Finish off by garnishing your meatloaf with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. Now, it’s time to dig in and enjoy your wonderful Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf Extravaganza!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground chicken. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if necessary, as turkey may require a few extra minutes to reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
How Can I Make This Meatloaf Gluten-Free?
You can switch out the regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs. Also, check your Dijon mustard and mayonnaise labels to ensure they are gluten-free. The flavor will still be delicious!
Can I Prepare This Meatloaf Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. If you’ve already added the topping, also cover it to prevent it from drying out. Allow the meatloaf to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Just slice it before freezing for easy reheating. To reheat, warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or use the microwave in short bursts.
