Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf: A Delicious Twist on a Classic

Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf: Yes, you read that right! Prepare to have your mind blown and your dinner table transformed with this incredibly delicious and surprisingly easy twist on two classic comfort foods. Forget everything you thought you knew about meatloaf because this isn’t your grandma’s recipe (unless your grandma was a culinary genius, of course!).

The concept of Cordon Bleu, traditionally a breaded cutlet of chicken stuffed with ham and cheese, has French origins and is synonymous with culinary excellence. We’ve taken that elegant flavor profile and reimagined it in the form of a hearty, family-friendly meatloaf. This Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf offers all the cheesy, hammy goodness you crave, but in a simpler, more satisfying package.

Why will you absolutely adore this dish? Well, for starters, it’s incredibly flavorful. The combination of juicy ground chicken, savory ham, and melted Swiss cheese creates a symphony of tastes that will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some extra protein and vegetables. But perhaps the best part is its convenience. It’s a one-dish wonder that requires minimal prep time and is perfect for busy weeknights. Get ready to experience the ultimate comfort food mashup!

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs ground chicken
• 8 oz cooked ham, diced
• 4 oz Swiss cheese, shredded, divided (reserve 1 oz for topping)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian seasoned)
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 cup yellow onion, finely chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 cup milk
• 1/4 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Preparing the Meatloaf Mixture

Okay, let’s get started! First, we’re going to create the base for our amazing Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf. This part is super important because it’s where all the flavors start to meld together.

1. Combine the Ground Chicken: In a large bowl, add your 1.5 lbs of ground chicken. Make sure it’s evenly distributed in the bowl so it mixes well with the other ingredients.
2. Add the Ham and Cheese: Now, toss in the 8 oz of diced cooked ham and 3 oz of the shredded Swiss cheese (remember to save 1 oz for topping later!). The ham and cheese are what give this meatloaf that classic Cordon Bleu flavor, so don’t skimp!
3. Incorporate the Binders: Next, add the 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup of milk, and 1 lightly beaten egg. The breadcrumbs and egg act as binders, holding the meatloaf together and preventing it from becoming too dense. The milk adds moisture, ensuring a tender result.
4. Season Generously: Sprinkle in the 1 tbsp of Dijon mustard, 1 tsp of garlic powder, 1/2 tsp of onion powder, and 1/4 tsp of black pepper. The Dijon mustard adds a tangy kick that complements the ham and cheese perfectly. Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasonings to your liking!
5. Mix Thoroughly: Using your hands (or a large spoon), gently mix all the ingredients together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough. You want everything to be evenly distributed, but the mixture should still be relatively loose.

Sautéing the Aromatics

This step adds a depth of flavor that you just can’t get any other way. Sautéing the onion and garlic releases their natural sweetness and aroma, which will infuse the entire meatloaf.

1. Heat the Olive Oil: In a skillet, heat the 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat. You want the oil to be shimmering but not smoking.
2. Sauté the Onion: Add the 1/2 cup of finely chopped yellow onion to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the Garlic: Add the 1 minced clove of garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
4. Cool Slightly: Remove the skillet from the heat and let the onion and garlic mixture cool slightly before adding it to the meatloaf mixture. This prevents the heat from cooking the egg in the meatloaf mixture.

Combining and Shaping the Meatloaf

Now, we bring everything together and get ready to bake! This is where your meatloaf starts to take shape (literally!).

1. Add Aromatics to Meat Mixture: Gently fold the cooled onion and garlic mixture into the meatloaf mixture. Again, be careful not to overmix.
2. Shape the Meatloaf: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan (approximately 9×5 inches). Transfer the meatloaf mixture to the prepared loaf pan and gently press it down to create an even surface.
3. Add Remaining Cheese: Sprinkle the reserved 1 oz of shredded Swiss cheese evenly over the top of the meatloaf. This will create a nice, cheesy crust as it bakes.

Baking the Meatloaf

Patience is key here! Baking the meatloaf at a moderate temperature ensures that it cooks evenly and stays moist.

1. Bake the Meatloaf: Bake in the preheated oven for 60-75 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature in the thickest part of the meatloaf.
2. Rest the Meatloaf: Once the meatloaf is cooked through, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meatloaf.

Preparing the Creamy Cheese Sauce

This sauce is the perfect finishing touch! It adds richness and moisture, and it really ties all the flavors together.

1. Melt the Butter: While the meatloaf is baking, prepare the creamy cheese sauce. In a saucepan, melt the 2 tbsp of butter over medium heat.
2. Whisk in the Flour: Whisk in the 2 tbsp of all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. This will help thicken the sauce.
3. Gradually Add the Milk: Gradually whisk in the 1 cup of milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
4. Simmer and Thicken: Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add the Cheese: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the 1/4 cup of shredded Swiss cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Season to Taste: Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.

Serving the Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf

Finally, the moment we’ve all been waiting for! It’s time to slice, serve, and enjoy your delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf.

1. Slice the Meatloaf: Carefully slice the meatloaf into even slices.
2. Serve with Sauce: Serve each slice of meatloaf with a generous spoonful of the creamy cheese sauce.
3. Garnish (Optional): Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, if desired.
4. Enjoy!: Serve immediately and enjoy! This meatloaf is delicious with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad.

Conclusion:

And there you have it! This Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf is so much more than just a clever twist on a classic. It’s a flavor explosion that’s surprisingly easy to pull off, even on a busy weeknight. The juicy, savory meatloaf, the creamy, cheesy filling, and that crispy, golden-brown topping – it all comes together in perfect harmony. Honestly, I was blown away by how delicious and satisfying this dish turned out, and I know you will be too.

Why is this a must-try? Well, for starters, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy all the comforting flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu without all the fuss of individual chicken breasts. It’s also incredibly versatile. You can easily adapt it to your own tastes and preferences. Not a fan of Swiss cheese? Try Gruyere or provolone instead. Want to add a little kick? Mix some Dijon mustard into the meatloaf mixture or sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top before baking. The possibilities are endless!

Beyond the incredible flavor, this meatloaf is also a crowd-pleaser. It’s perfect for a family dinner, a potluck, or even a casual get-together with friends. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a good meatloaf? This one is just elevated to a whole new level.

Now, let’s talk serving suggestions. I personally love serving this Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf with a simple side of roasted vegetables, like broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts. A creamy mashed potato is also a classic and comforting choice. For a lighter option, try a fresh green salad with a vinaigrette dressing. And don’t forget the sauce! A drizzle of Dijon mustard or a creamy mushroom sauce would be absolutely divine.

If you’re looking for variations, consider adding some chopped ham or bacon to the meatloaf mixture for an extra layer of flavor. You could also experiment with different types of breadcrumbs for the topping. Panko breadcrumbs will give you an extra crispy crust, while Italian breadcrumbs will add a touch of seasoning.

Another fun variation is to make mini meatloaves instead of one large loaf. This is a great option for portion control or for serving at a party. Simply divide the meatloaf mixture into individual muffin tins and bake until cooked through.

But honestly, the best way to experience the magic of this recipe is to simply try it for yourself. I promise you won’t be disappointed. It’s a guaranteed winner that will become a regular in your dinner rotation.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece. I’m confident that you’ll love this Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf as much as I do.

And finally, I’d love to hear about your experience! Once you’ve tried the recipe, please come back and share your thoughts in the comments below. Did you make any modifications? What did you serve it with? What did your family think? I’m always eager to learn from your experiences and see how you’ve made this recipe your own. Happy cooking!

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