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## How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf: Step-by-Step
Making Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf is simple and straightforward. Here’s how you can make this delicious twist on the classic:
### **Step 1: Preheat Your Oven**
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will allow the meatloaf to cook evenly and get a nice golden brown crust.
### **Step 2: Prepare the Meat Mixture**
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined. You can use your hands or a spoon for this step. Make sure the mixture is moist but not overly wet; it should be firm enough to hold its shape.
### **Step 3: Layer with Ham and Cheese**
On a clean surface, lay a piece of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Spread half of the meat mixture into a loaf shape, forming the bottom of the meatloaf. Next, layer the chopped ham and shredded Swiss cheese over the meat. Make sure to leave a small border around the edges to ensure the cheese and ham don’t spill out during cooking.
Top the ham and cheese layer with the remaining half of the meat mixture, pressing down gently to seal the edges. This will create a stuffed meatloaf filled with the savory ham and melted cheese.
### **Step 4: Bake the Meatloaf**
Transfer the stuffed meatloaf to a baking dish or a lined baking sheet. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for about 45-60 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). You can check the meatloaf’s doneness with a meat thermometer.
### **Step 5: Add the Topping (Optional)**
If you’d like to add a cheesy topping or glaze, you can do so about 10 minutes before the meatloaf is finished baking. For a cheesy topping, sprinkle some extra shredded Swiss cheese over the top and return the meatloaf to the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Alternatively, you can brush the top with a mixture of mustard and honey for a sweet and tangy glaze.
### **Step 6: Rest and Serve**
Once the meatloaf is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and makes it easier to slice. Slice the meatloaf into thick pieces and serve hot.
## Serving Suggestions
Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Here are some ideas to round out your meal:
– **Mashed Potatoes**: Creamy
mashed potatoes are a classic side that complements the savory flavors of the meatloaf.
– **Roasted Vegetables**: Roasted carrots, green beans, or Brussels sprouts add a healthy and flavorful element to the meal.
– **Salad**: A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette helps balance out the richness of the meatloaf.
– **Rice Pilaf**: Fluffy rice pilaf with herbs and spices makes a perfect accompaniment.
## Final Thoughts
Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf is a delicious and comforting twist on the classic Chicken Cordon Bleu. It takes all the wonderful flavors of the traditional dish and simplifies them into an easy, hearty meatloaf that the whole family will love. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen.
With its savory layers of ham, cheese, and tender ground chicken, this meatloaf is both filling and flavorful. Plus, it’s customizable, so you can adjust the ingredients to suit your tastes. Whether you top it with extra cheese, glaze it with mustard, or keep it simple, Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf is a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.
So next time you’re craving something hearty and comforting, skip the traditional Chicken Cordon Bleu and give this twist a try. It’s easy, flavorful, and guaranteed to please everyone at the dinner table!
