Description
Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf with Creamy Mushroom Sauce is a unique twist on the classic meatloaf and Chicken Cordon Bleu. This dish combines the tender, flavorful meatloaf made with a blend of ground chicken and beef, with the savory filling of deli ham and Swiss cheese. Topped with a rich and creamy mushroom sauce, it’s a comforting yet elegant meal that can be enjoyed by family and friends alike. Whether you’re making it for a casual dinner or a special occasion, this hearty dish will impress everyone at the table. 🧀🍖
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 pound ground chicken 🐔 – Lean and moist, chicken brings a tender base for the meatloaf.
- 1/2 pound ground beef 🐄 – Adds richness and flavor, complementing the lean chicken.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs 🍞 – Helps bind the meatloaf together and provides a lighter texture.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese 🧀 – Adds a savory depth and slightly tangy flavor.
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion 🧅 – Adds a mild sweetness and aromatic base.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced 🧄 – For a fragrant and flavorful kick.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped 🌿 – Brings freshness and color to the meat mixture.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme 🌿 – Adds a warm, earthy flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano 🌿 – Brings a savory and slightly bitter undertone.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt 🧂 – Enhances the overall flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 🌶 – Adds a bit of heat and balance.
- 1 large egg 🥚 – Acts as a binder to hold the ingredients together.
- 1/4 cup milk 🥛 – Helps to moisten the meat mixture and make it more tender.
- 4 slices deli ham 🍖 – Provides the signature flavor of Chicken Cordon Bleu.
- 4 slices Swiss cheese 🧀 – Melts beautifully inside the meatloaf, adding a creamy texture.
For the Creamy Mushroom Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter 🧈 – The base of the sauce, adding richness.
- 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced 🍄 – These mushrooms have a deep, earthy flavor that enhances the sauce.
- 1/2 cup dry white wine 🍷 – Adds acidity and depth to the sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream 🥄 – Gives the sauce its rich, velvety texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard 🌟 – Adds a slight tang to balance the richness.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste 🧂 – For seasoning and flavor.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) 🌿 – A light, fresh garnish to finish the dish.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven 🔥
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your oven is at the perfect temperature for baking the meatloaf.
Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients 🍖
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, dried thyme, oregano, salt, pepper, egg, and milk. Mix everything thoroughly until the ingredients are well incorporated. This step ensures that the flavors meld and that the meatloaf mixture holds together when baked.
Step 3: Assemble the Meatloaf 🍗
Lay out a piece of parchment paper or plastic wrap on a flat surface. Spread the meat mixture into a rectangle, about 12 inches long and 8 inches wide. Layer the slices of ham evenly on top, followed by the Swiss cheese. This combination will create the iconic Chicken Cordon Bleu filling inside the meatloaf.
Step 4: Roll the Meatloaf 🌀
Using the parchment paper or plastic wrap, carefully roll the meat mixture into a log, starting from one of the shorter ends. Pinch the ends together to seal the meatloaf. Place the rolled meatloaf seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a lightly greased baking dish.
Step 5: Bake the Meatloaf ⏲
Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf is fully cooked. Once done, remove from the oven and let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Step 6: Prepare the Creamy Mushroom Sauce 🍄
While the meatloaf is baking, heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and tender. Add the white wine to deglaze the skillet, scraping any browned bits off the bottom. Let the wine reduce by half, about 3-4 minutes. Then, stir in the heavy cream and Dijon mustard. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes or until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Step 7: Serve the Dish 🍽
Slice the meatloaf into 1-inch slices. Serve the meatloaf with a generous portion of the creamy mushroom sauce drizzled on top. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Pair with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a light green salad for a well-rounded meal.
Notes
- Meat Variations: You can substitute ground turkey for ground chicken, or use ground pork for a different flavor.
- Cheese Options: If you prefer a different cheese, Gruyère or cheddar can be used as a substitute for Swiss cheese.
- Vegetable Add-ins: For added nutrition, finely chop vegetables such as spinach or carrots and mix them into the meatloaf.
- Freezing: You can freeze the meatloaf before baking for up to 3 months. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then bake when ready, adding extra time to ensure it’s fully cooked.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes – This is the time needed to gather your ingredients, prep the vegetables, and mix the meatloaf ingredients.
- Cook Time: 50 minutes – Baking the meatloaf will take around 45 minutes, with an additional 5 minutes to prepare the mushroom sauce.
- Category: Family-Friendly Dinners 👨👩👧👦
- Cuisine: American 🇺🇸
Nutrition
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 120mg