The Beast Of Meatloaf

Meatloaf is one of those all American meals that every mom has their go to recipe.  I have found over the years that people either hate or love meatloaf.  Upon further questioning I found that most people hate meatloaf because most people think meatloaf is an opportunity to clean out the frig.  But that is not true!!!  Cook your veggies separate please!!
The following recipe I developed years ago when I was a Foster Parent to 6-9 teenage boys.  I needed to feed them all and not have a picky on refuse to eat.  This recipe is tried and true for all picky eaters.  The only people who don't eat this meatloaf and love it are non meat eaters and people that don't like beef or bacon(that is me!!)
Join on my journey into the making of the The Beast as my hubby and step sons call it.   This is a demanded meal in our home since I only make it Fall and Winter.

The Beast of Meatloaf 

3 lbs 85% ground beef
1 Pkg meatloaf seasoning
1/2 c Italian bread crumbs
1 small finely chopped onion (optional)
2 eggs
3 cloves of garlic, minced

Place all in a bowl and mix with your hands. (it is  ok to get your hands dirty.  Remember to remove your rings before starting)

Form into a loaf and place in 9'x13" pan

Take a 16oz pkg of bacon and cover the loaf of meat.

Pour the whole bottle of 18 oz Barbecue sauce over the loaf. Mix 1/4 c ketchup with the BBQ sauce. (does not matter what kind you use.) Spread to cover all of the outside of the loaf.

Bake at 350 degrees for 90 mins to 120 mins.  Make sure it is done in the center.  Low and slow cooking results in a better meatloaf.

Serve with side of mashed potatoes, sauteed broccoli and salad.