Looking for a delicious twist on traditional meatloaf? This BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf recipe combines all the flavors of a classic bacon cheeseburger with the juicy, hearty texture of meatloaf. The result is a savory dish that’s perfect for dinner with family or a gathering with friends. If you love the taste of smoky BBQ, crispy bacon, gooey cheese, and tender beef, this recipe is for you! Read on to discover how to make this mouthwatering BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf from scratch.

What is BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf?
BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is a fusion of two beloved comfort foods: cheeseburgers and meatloaf. In this recipe, ground beef is mixed with crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, onions, and BBQ sauce to create a moist, flavorful loaf that’s packed with delicious cheeseburger flavor. Topped with extra cheese and a smoky BBQ glaze, this dish is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a unique spin on a classic meatloaf recipe.
Ingredients List for BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf
To make the perfect BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef (preferably 80/20 for optimal flavor and juiciness)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
- ½ cup finely diced onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (or any cheese of your choice)
- ½ cup BBQ sauce (plus more for topping)
- ½ cup crumbled cooked bacon (about 4-5 slices)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ½ cup additional shredded cheese for topping (optional)
Ingredients List for the BBQ Glaze
- ¼ cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra smokiness)
Substitutions and Variations
Looking to customize your BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf? Here are some easy substitutions and variations:
- Ground Meat: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or pork for a different flavor profile.
- Cheese: Use any cheese you prefer. Swiss, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack all work well if you want to mix things up.
- Breadcrumbs: If you’re avoiding breadcrumbs, you can use crushed crackers, rolled oats, or even almond flour as a low-carb option.
- BBQ Sauce: Experiment with different BBQ sauce flavors, such as hickory, honey, or spicy BBQ, to tailor the taste to your liking.
- Additional Ingredients: Feel free to add chopped jalapeños for heat, diced bell peppers for extra texture, or even mushrooms for an umami boost.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to make this delicious meatloaf? Follow these step-by-step instructions for a perfectly cooked BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until it’s crispy. Once cooked, place it on a paper towel to absorb excess grease, then crumble it into small pieces.
Step 3: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, diced onions, minced garlic, egg, shredded cheese, BBQ sauce, crumbled bacon, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to mix everything thoroughly, but be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
Step 4: Shape the Meatloaf
- Transfer the meat mixture to the loaf pan and shape it into a loaf. Press down slightly to ensure it’s even and compact.
Step 5: Prepare the BBQ Glaze
- In a small bowl, mix together BBQ sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, and smoked paprika. Stir until the glaze is smooth and well combined.
Step 6: Add the Glaze
- Brush the BBQ glaze generously over the top of the meatloaf. This glaze will caramelize in the oven, adding a sweet and smoky flavor.
Step 7: Bake the Meatloaf
- Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Step 8: Add Extra Cheese (Optional)
- In the last 10 minutes of baking, sprinkle additional shredded cheese over the top of the meatloaf. Let it melt and bubble for a cheesy finish.
Step 9: Rest and Slice
- Once cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making it easier to slice without falling apart.
How to Cook BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf: A Step-by-Step Guide
Cooking a meatloaf might seem intimidating, but this BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf recipe is straightforward. The key is to follow the steps carefully, especially when it comes to mixing and shaping the loaf. Here’s a quick recap:
- Preheat the oven and prepare the loaf pan.
- Cook the bacon and crumble it.
- Combine all ingredients in a bowl without overmixing.
- Shape the meat mixture into a loaf.
- Apply the BBQ glaze and bake to perfection.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To make sure your BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf turns out perfectly every time, here are some common mistakes to avoid:
- Overmixing the Meat: Overmixing can make the meatloaf tough. Gently combine the ingredients until they’re just mixed.
- Skipping the Glaze: The glaze not only adds flavor but also helps keep the meatloaf moist. Don’t skip it!
- Not Letting It Rest: Let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps it hold together when sliced.
- Using Lean Meat Only: If you use meat that’s too lean, the meatloaf may turn out dry. For best results, use ground beef that’s 80/20 or mix in some fattier meat.
Serving and Presentation Tips
To make your BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf look as good as it tastes, follow these presentation tips:
- Slice Carefully: Use a sharp knife to cut clean slices for an elegant presentation.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some chopped parsley or chives over the top for a fresh touch.
- Serve with Sides: Pair with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a side salad to complete the meal.
How to Serve BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf
This meatloaf is delicious when served hot, fresh from the oven. Consider slicing and arranging it on a platter for family-style serving. You can also serve each slice on individual plates, accompanied by BBQ sauce on the side for dipping.
Presentation Ideas for BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf
If you’re serving this dish for a gathering, consider these presentation ideas:
- BBQ Drizzle: After slicing, drizzle a bit of warm BBQ sauce on each slice for extra flavor and visual appeal.
- Cheese Topping: Sprinkle crumbled bacon and a bit of extra cheese on top of each slice for a more gourmet look.
- Bread Loaf Presentation: Use a larger, bread-shaped loaf pan if you want to create a more classic meatloaf look.
BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe Tips
Here are a few extra tips to help you make the most of this recipe:
- Make It Spicy: If you like a bit of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the meat mixture.
- Leftover Ideas: Leftover meatloaf makes a fantastic sandwich filling. Slice it thinly and serve it between two pieces of toasted bread with extra BBQ sauce and cheese.
- Storage: Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the meatloaf up to 24 hours in advance. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, add the glaze and pop it in the oven.
How do I prevent my meatloaf from falling apart?
Using enough binding ingredients like egg and breadcrumbs helps hold the meatloaf together. Additionally, letting it rest after baking makes slicing easier.
What type of BBQ sauce should I use?
Use your favorite BBQ sauce! Sweet, smoky, or spicy sauces all work well, depending on your preference.
Can I add vegetables to the meatloaf?
Absolutely! You can add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or shredded carrots to the meat mixture for extra flavor and texture.
How do I reheat leftover meatloaf?
Reheat slices in the oven at 325°F (165°C) for 10-15 minutes, or microwave for 1-2 minutes until warmed through.
Conclusion
This BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is a deliciously savory twist on classic meatloaf. With smoky bacon, melted cheese, and tangy BBQ sauce, it’s sure to become a favorite comfort food in your home. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner, this recipe is easy to follow and packed with flavor. Try it out, and enjoy the satisfying taste of a bacon cheeseburger in meatloaf form!
PrintBbq Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe
This BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf combines the flavors of a classic cheeseburger with a savory, juicy meatloaf twist. Loaded with smoky BBQ sauce, crispy bacon, and melty cheese, it’s the perfect main dish for a family dinner or a cookout-inspired meal at home.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- Ground beef
- Bacon
- Cheddar cheese
- BBQ sauce
- Bread crumbs
- Onion
- Egg
- Garlic powder
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Form half the mixture into a loaf shape on a baking sheet, top with cheese, then cover with remaining meat mixture.
- Wrap the loaf with strips of bacon, brushing with BBQ sauce.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes until cooked through and bacon is crispy.
- Let rest, then slice and serve.
Notes
- Add jalapeños or pickles for extra flavor.
- Pair with mashed potatoes or a side salad for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800 mg
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