Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Short Description

Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is a hearty and flavorful twist on the classic comfort dish, combining juicy ground beef, crispy bacon, and gooey melted cheese. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, this meatloaf is packed with the bold flavors of a classic cheeseburger.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ultimate Comfort Food: A satisfying meal loaded with cheese and bacon.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and minimal prep time.
• Juicy and Flavorful: Moist and tender with a crispy bacon topping.
• Great for Leftovers: Makes fantastic sandwiches the next day.

this Recipe

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Meatloaf:

• Ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
• Breadcrumbs
• Eggs
• Worcestershire sauce
• Ketchup
• Yellow mustard
• Onion, finely chopped
• Garlic, minced
• Salt and black pepper
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Cooked bacon, crumbled

For the Topping:

• Ketchup
• Yellow mustard
• Brown sugar
• Additional cooked bacon (for garnish, optional)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a loaf pan.
2. Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, mustard, onion, garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Add Cheese and Bacon: Fold in shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled cooked bacon.
4. Shape the Meatloaf: Transfer mixture to the loaf pan and shape into an even loaf.
5. Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, mix ketchup, mustard, and brown sugar. Spread evenly over the meatloaf.
6. Bake: Bake for 50-60 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
7. Rest and Serve: Let meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with additional bacon if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8 servings
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the mixture.
• Low-Carb Version: Use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs.
• Different Cheese: Swap cheddar for pepper jack or Swiss.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm slices in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes or microwave for 1-2 minutes.
• Freezing: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey works well, but add a little extra seasoning to enhance the flavor.

How do I keep the meatloaf from drying out?

Use 80/20 ground beef and let the meatloaf rest before slicing to retain juices.

Can I cook this meatloaf in an air fryer?

Yes! Cook at 375°F for about 40-45 minutes, checking for doneness with a thermometer.

What can I serve with bacon cheeseburger meatloaf?

Mashed potatoes, green beans, roasted veggies, or a simple salad pair well.

Can I make mini meatloaves instead?

Yes! Form into smaller loaves and bake at 375°F for about 25-30 minutes.

Can I add pickles?

For a true cheeseburger taste, finely chop pickles and mix them into the meatloaf.

How do I get a crispy bacon topping?

Place extra bacon strips on top and broil for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking.

Can I prepare this meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the loaf, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

What’s the best way to slice meatloaf cleanly?

Use a sharp knife and allow the meatloaf to rest before slicing to prevent crumbling.

Can I use pre-cooked bacon?

Yes, but fresh-cooked bacon will provide better texture and flavor.

Conclusion

Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf combines all the best flavors of a cheeseburger into a comforting, juicy meatloaf. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to become a favorite!

Print