Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe

There's nothing like the mouthwatering aroma of Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf baking in the oven to bring everyone to the table. This hearty, flavorful twist on a classic meatloaf is packed with all the flavors of your favorite burger—juicy beef, crispy bacon, gooey cheese, and a hint of smoky sweetness.

I first created this recipe on a chilly weekend when I was craving something comforting yet a little indulgent. One bite, and it became an instant family favorite. Whether you're feeding a crowd or looking to spice up your weeknight dinners, this recipe is sure to hit the spot.

Let’s dive into why this Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf deserves a spot on your menu!

Why You’ll Love This Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Get ready to experience meatloaf like never before. This recipe takes the humble loaf to new heights with irresistible flavors and textures that everyone will love.

1. All the Flavors of a Cheeseburger: Imagine your favorite bacon cheeseburger, but in a hearty, sliceable form. From the smoky bacon to the melted cheese, every bite is packed with burger-inspired goodness.

2. Perfect for Busy Nights: This recipe is surprisingly easy to put together. Just mix, shape, bake, and dinner’s ready in about an hour, making it perfect for weeknights.

3. A Crowd-Pleasing Classic: Whether it’s for a family dinner or a potluck, this meatloaf always gets rave reviews. Plus, it slices beautifully, so it’s great for serving a crowd.

4. Versatile and Customizable: Add extra toppings, experiment with cheeses, or swap ingredients to make it your own. This recipe is endlessly adaptable to fit your preferences!

Trust me, once you try this Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf, you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this meatloaf lies in its simple ingredients, each contributing to its rich, savory flavor. Let’s break them down:

1. Ground Beef: The base of the meatloaf. Opt for an 80/20 ground beef mix for the perfect balance of flavor and moisture. Leaner beef may result in a dryer loaf, so keep that in mind.

2. Crispy Bacon: Bacon brings smoky, salty goodness that elevates this meatloaf to burger-level perfection. Cook it in advance so it’s easy to crumble into the mixture.

3. Cheese: Sharp cheddar works beautifully here, but feel free to mix in some Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for extra flavor. Shred your own cheese for the best melting texture.

4. Breadcrumbs and Eggs: These binders hold the meatloaf together while keeping it moist. I recommend panko breadcrumbs for a light, tender texture.

5. Ketchup and Mustard: Classic burger condiments, ketchup and yellow mustard, give the meatloaf its signature cheeseburger tang. You’ll also use ketchup for the glaze on top.

6. Onions and Pickles: Dice these small for that authentic burger flavor. Dill pickles add a tangy crunch that balances the richness of the meat.

No special equipment is needed for this recipe—just a large mixing bowl, a baking sheet, and some parchment paper.

How To Make This Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Making this meatloaf is easier than you think. Here’s how to bring it together step by step:

1. Preheat and Prep: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

2. Combine the Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together ground beef, crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, breadcrumbs, diced onions, pickles, eggs, ketchup, mustard, and a dash of salt and pepper. Use your hands to gently combine everything—don’t overmix, or the meatloaf might become dense.

3. Shape the Meatloaf: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking sheet and shape it into a loaf about 2 inches high. For a more burger-inspired look, you can press a slight indentation along the top to hold the glaze.

4. Add the Glaze: In a small bowl, mix together additional ketchup, a little brown sugar, and a splash of Worcestershire sauce. Spread this evenly over the top of the meatloaf for a sticky, flavorful finish.

5. Bake to Perfection: Bake the meatloaf for 45-55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing to lock in the juices.

From start to finish, you’re looking at about an hour of total time—a small investment for a big payoff!

Storage Options

Leftovers? Lucky you! This meatloaf stores beautifully, so you can enjoy it throughout the week.

1. Refrigerator: Store slices in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

2. Freezer: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 3 months.

3. Reheating Tip: For the best results, reheat slices in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes. This helps maintain the texture and flavor better than microwaving.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly versatile, so feel free to make it your own! Here are a few ideas to get you started:

1. Swap the Protein: Use ground turkey, chicken, or even a mix of ground pork and beef for a different flavor profile.

2. Cheese Galore: Experiment with cheeses like Swiss, gouda, or blue cheese crumbles for a unique twist.

3. Low-Carb Option: Skip the breadcrumbs and use crushed pork rinds as a keto-friendly binder.

4. Veggie Add-Ins: Finely chopped bell peppers or mushrooms can add extra flavor and moisture to the loaf.

5. Barbecue Glaze: Swap the ketchup glaze for a tangy barbecue sauce for a smoky, southern-style meatloaf.

The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to get creative!

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