Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of a bacon cheeseburger meatloaf baking in the oven. This hearty dish combines all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger—savory ground beef, crispy bacon, melted cheese—with the cozy satisfaction of a home-cooked meatloaf.

I first discovered this twist on traditional meatloaf while searching for a way to satisfy my burger cravings during a cold winter evening. The result was an instant family favorite, perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Let’s dive into why this recipe will quickly become a staple in your household.

Why You'll Love This Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Get ready to embrace a recipe that brings together the best of two worlds: the juicy flavors of a bacon cheeseburger and the comforting appeal of a classic meatloaf.

First and foremost, this dish is a crowd-pleaser. Packed with bold, familiar flavors, it’s a hit with both kids and adults. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just need a meal to wow your family, this recipe delivers.

It’s also incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients, you’ll have this meatloaf prepped and ready for the oven in no time.

Not to mention, this meatloaf is customizable. Prefer turkey to beef? Want to add a spicy kick with jalapeños? The possibilities are endless, making it perfect for any palate or dietary preference.

Finally, it’s just plain delicious. The combination of crispy bacon, gooey cheese, and a tangy glaze elevates this dish to a whole new level of comfort food.

Ready to get started? Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need.

Ingredients Notes

This recipe shines because of its simple yet impactful ingredients. Each one plays a key role in delivering maximum flavor and texture.

• Ground Beef: The base of the meatloaf, providing that rich and juicy flavor. Opt for an 80/20 blend for the perfect balance of moisture and structure.
• Breadcrumbs: These help bind the meatloaf together while keeping it moist. Use plain or seasoned breadcrumbs, depending on your flavor preferences.
• Cheddar Cheese: The star of the show! Shredded cheddar melts beautifully throughout the meatloaf, giving you pockets of cheesy goodness in every bite.
• Bacon: Crispy bacon is layered inside and on top, infusing every slice with smoky, savory notes. Cook the bacon until just crisp before using.
• Ketchup and Mustard: Combined with Worcestershire sauce, these condiments form a tangy glaze reminiscent of a classic burger sauce.
• Onion and Garlic: Sautéed before mixing, these aromatics add depth and enhance the overall flavor profile.

For equipment, you’ll need a loaf pan and aluminum foil for easy cleanup. If you don’t have a loaf pan, shape the meat mixture into a free-form loaf on a baking sheet.

How to Make This Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Creating this flavor-packed meatloaf is a breeze. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure success:

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats, prepare your ingredients. Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until just crispy, then set aside to cool. Reserve a bit of the bacon grease for sautéing the onions and garlic.

In the same skillet, sauté diced onion and minced garlic until softened and fragrant. This step enhances their natural sweetness and eliminates any raw bite. Let the mixture cool slightly before adding it to the meatloaf.

In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, shredded cheddar cheese, Worcestershire sauce, and the sautéed onion-garlic mixture. Season with salt and pepper, then mix gently until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense meatloaf.

Line your loaf pan with bacon slices, allowing the ends to hang over the edges. Fill the pan with the meat mixture, pressing it down gently to remove any air pockets. Fold the bacon ends over the top of the loaf.

In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, mustard, and a touch of brown sugar to create the glaze. Spread half the glaze over the meatloaf, reserving the rest for basting.

Bake the meatloaf for 45-50 minutes, basting with the remaining glaze halfway through. When done, the meatloaf should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Storage Options

This bacon cheeseburger meatloaf stores beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep or leftovers.

• Refrigerator: Store slices in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven.
• Freezer: Wrap the entire cooked meatloaf (or individual slices) tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: To maintain the meatloaf’s juicy texture, reheat in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes, covered with foil.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is as versatile as it is delicious. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Turkey or Chicken: Swap out the ground beef for leaner options like ground turkey or chicken.
• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture for a fiery twist.
• Low Carb: Substitute almond flour or crushed pork rinds for breadcrumbs to make it keto-friendly.
• Vegetarian Version: Use a plant-based ground meat alternative and omit the bacon, or use plant-based bacon substitutes.
• Different Cheese: Experiment with other cheeses like pepper jack, mozzarella, or Swiss for unique flavor combinations.

No matter how you customize it, this bacon cheeseburger meatloaf is sure to impress.

Print