There's nothing quite like the hearty aroma of a classic bacon cheeseburger filling your home, but imagine it transformed into a comforting meatloaf that’s perfect for dinner. This Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf combines juicy ground beef, smoky bacon, gooey cheese, and all the flavors of your favorite burger into a sliceable masterpiece.
I first made this recipe on a chilly weekend, and it quickly became a family staple. It’s indulgent, satisfying, and much easier to make than grilling burgers for everyone. Let’s dive into why this dish is bound to be your next go-to comfort food recipe.
Why You'll Love This Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf
Get ready to fall head over heels for this creative twist on a dinnertime classic. Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf isn’t just delicious – it’s a surefire crowd-pleaser that checks all the right boxes.
First, this recipe is pure comfort food. Every bite combines savory beef, crispy bacon, and melty cheese for a flavor explosion that tastes like a backyard barbecue.
Second, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a few basic steps, you’ll have a dish that feels gourmet but doesn’t require hours in the kitchen.
What’s more, it’s a one-pan wonder. No need for multiple dishes or complicated processes – everything comes together in a single loaf pan for easy prep and cleanup.
Finally, this meatloaf is endlessly customizable. Whether you want to sneak in some veggies, switch up the cheese, or add a little heat, the options are limitless.
Let’s break down the ingredients that make this meatloaf so irresistible.
Ingredients Notes
The magic of this Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf lies in the balance of its simple yet bold ingredients. Each component plays a critical role in delivering that authentic cheeseburger flavor.
Ground Beef forms the hearty base of this recipe. For best results, choose an 80/20 blend – it’s juicy without being too greasy.
Bacon is the star of the show, adding smoky richness. Chop it finely and cook it until crispy before mixing it into the meatloaf.
Cheddar Cheese brings that unmistakable cheeseburger flair. Use shredded cheese for easy mixing, or layer slices for a gooey surprise in the center.
Breadcrumbs and Eggs act as the binders, ensuring the loaf holds together. Panko breadcrumbs add a light texture, while eggs help keep it moist.
Ketchup and Mustard deliver the classic burger condiments in every bite. Use your favorite brands for the best results.
You’ll also need a loaf pan to shape and bake the meatloaf. If you want a crispy exterior, consider lining the pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
How to Make This Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf
Making this Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is straightforward and so rewarding. Here’s how to bring it all together:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. While the oven heats, prepare your bacon. Cook it in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, then drain it on a paper towel and set it aside.
In a large bowl, combine your ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings. Add in the crispy bacon and shredded cheddar cheese, mixing everything until just combined. Be careful not to overwork the meat mixture, as this can make the meatloaf dense.
Prepare your loaf pan by lightly greasing it or lining it with parchment paper. Press half of the meat mixture into the pan, creating a slight indentation in the center. Fill the indentation with additional shredded cheese for a gooey middle, then top with the remaining meat mixture.
Spread ketchup over the top of the loaf, creating an even glaze. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
The result? A tender, flavorful meatloaf with melty cheese and crispy bacon in every bite.
Storage Options
If you have leftovers (and you might not!), storing this meatloaf is easy. Transfer any remaining slices to an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 4 days.
For longer storage, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
When reheating, use the oven or a toaster oven to maintain the crispy exterior. For faster reheating, you can microwave slices, but the texture may soften slightly.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is wonderfully versatile, so feel free to get creative.
- Swap out cheddar cheese for pepper jack, mozzarella, or even blue cheese for a unique twist.
- Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner option.
- Add finely diced onions, pickles, or jalapeños for extra flavor and texture.
- Replace breadcrumbs with crushed crackers or oats if you’re out of panko.
- For a smoky kick, mix a tablespoon of barbecue sauce into the meat mixture.
No matter how you customize it, this Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is sure to be a hit. Try it once, and it’ll quickly earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation.
PrintBacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe
This Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf recipe combines the best of a classic cheeseburger with a comforting meatloaf. Loaded with ground beef, crispy bacon, gooey cheddar cheese, and flavorful seasonings, it’s a delicious, hearty dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 slices cooked and crumbled bacon
- 2 large eggs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)
- 2 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, cheddar cheese, bacon, eggs, onion, garlic, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Spread a thin layer of ketchup over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add 1 teaspoon of chili powder or cayenne pepper.
- Use your favorite cheese, like mozzarella or pepper jack, for a twist.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
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