Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture

1. Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.

2. Cook the Onions and Garlic:

In a small skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion and garlic in a little oil until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Set aside to cool slightly.

3. Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, cooked onions and garlic, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a large spoon to mix everything together until fully combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.

4. Form the Meatloaf Shape:

Transfer the meatloaf mixture to the prepared baking sheet and shape it into an oval loaf about 10-12 inches long. Slightly round the edges to give the meatloaf a more “mummy-like” appearance.

Step 2: Add the Mummy Bandages

1. Wrap with Bacon or Pastry:

If you’re using bacon for the bandages, lay the slices across the top of the meatloaf, slightly overlapping each piece. Tuck the ends of the bacon underneath the meatloaf to secure them in place. If you prefer a puff pastry mummy, cut the pastry into thin strips and wrap them around the meatloaf, leaving small gaps between the strips to create a mummy-like appearance.

2. Brush with BBQ Sauce:

Brush the top of the bacon or pastry-wrapped meatloaf with BBQ sauce or ketchup to add flavor and help the bacon crisp up nicely in the oven.

Step 3: Bake the Mummy Meatloaf

Place the mummy meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 55-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C) on a meat thermometer. If the bacon or pastry starts to brown too quickly, cover the meatloaf loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning.

Step 4: Add the Eyes

About 10 minutes before the meatloaf is done baking, carefully place the candy eyes or olive slices near the top of the meatloaf to give your mummy a spooky face. If using cheese for eyes, wait until the meatloaf is fully cooked and add them just before serving.

Step 5: Let It Rest and Slice

Once the mummy meatloaf is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender meatloaf.

Step 6: Serve Your Mummy Meatloaf

Transfer the mummy meatloaf to a serving platter and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Slice and serve with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a Halloween-themed salad.