When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the warm and satisfying flavors of a classic meatloaf. But what if you could take this beloved dish to the next level? Enter Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf – a delightful fusion of flavors combining the traditional elements of chicken, ham, and cheese with the hearty appeal of meatloaf. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe brings sophistication and flavor to your table while being surprisingly easy to prepare.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf delivers all the signature flavors of the traditional cordon bleu but with a modern, family-friendly twist. Ground chicken forms the base, while savory ham and gooey melted Swiss cheese create a satisfying filling. Topped with a creamy mustard sauce, this meatloaf is moist, flavorful, and sure to impress.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Servings: 6
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
- 2 lbs ground chicken
- 1/4 cup plain bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 6 slices deli ham
- 6 slices Swiss cheese
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal after baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well incorporated, but be careful not to overmix as this can make the meatloaf dense.
Step 3: Assemble the Meatloaf
- Divide the chicken mixture into two equal portions.
- Press one half of the mixture into the bottom of the loaf pan, spreading it evenly.
- Lay the ham slices on top of the chicken layer, followed by the Swiss cheese slices.
- Cover the ham and cheese with the remaining chicken mixture, pressing gently to seal the edges.
Step 4: Bake the Meatloaf
Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The top should be lightly golden.
Step 5: Prepare the Sauce
While the meatloaf is baking, make the creamy mustard sauce.
- In a small saucepan, combine heavy cream, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens slightly (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from heat.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Once the meatloaf is cooked, let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Drizzle the warm mustard sauce over the meatloaf and garnish with chopped parsley for an extra touch of color and flavor. Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Ground Chicken: Fresh meat ensures the best flavor and texture. Avoid pre-seasoned ground chicken, as it may affect the seasoning balance.
- Don’t Skip Resting Time: Allowing the meatloaf to rest helps it hold its shape and makes slicing easier.
- Experiment with Cheese: While Swiss cheese is traditional, you can try Gruyère, provolone, or mozzarella for different flavor profiles.
Why It’s Perfect for Any Occasion
Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf is an excellent dish for both weeknight meals and special gatherings. Its elegant presentation and rich flavors make it a crowd-pleaser, while the relatively simple preparation means you can whip it up without spending hours in the kitchen. Pair it with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal, or elevate it with a side of creamy scalloped potatoes.
Whether you’re a fan of traditional cordon bleu or just looking for a creative way to enjoy meatloaf, this recipe offers the best of both worlds. With its tender chicken, melty cheese, savory ham, and creamy sauce, Chicken Cordon Bleu Meatloaf is bound to become a favorite at your dinner table. Try it out, and you’ll see why this unique twist on a classic dish is worth making again and again.