Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf – The Ultimate Comfort Food

Ready for a family-friendly dish that combines the best of two worlds: a juicy bacon cheeseburger and a hearty meatloaf? This Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is bursting with bold flavors, loaded with crispy bacon, melted cheese, and a touch of classic burger condiments. It’s the ultimate comfort food that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Full of Flavor: A savory meatloaf mixed with chopped bacon, melted cheese, and burger spices, then topped with a ketchup-mustard glaze.
Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and quick prep make this a perfect weeknight dinner.
Kid-Approved: The flavors of a cheeseburger in a dinner-worthy format are sure to win over the whole family.
Versatile and Fun: Serve it with your favorite burger toppings or classic sides like fries and salad.

Ingredients for Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf (Serves 6-8)

2 lbs ground beef (80/20 for juicier meatloaf)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
6 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or crushed saltine crackers)
2 large eggs
1/4 cup ketchup
2 tbsp yellow mustard
1/2 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor)
1/4 cup chopped pickles (optional, for a true burger flavor)

For the Glaze:

1/4 cup ketchup
2 tbsp yellow mustard
1 tbsp brown sugar

Step-by-Step Instructions for Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet or loaf pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

2. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture

Cook the Bacon: Cook the bacon strips in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Drain on paper towels and crumble when cool.
Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, breadcrumbs, eggs, ketchup, mustard, chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. If using, fold in the chopped pickles. Mix gently until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.

3. Shape the Meatloaf

Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared baking sheet or loaf pan. Shape it into a loaf, pressing gently to form an even shape.

4. Make the Glaze

Combine Glaze Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix the ketchup, mustard, and brown sugar. Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.

5. Bake the Meatloaf

Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Slice the Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf and serve with your favorite sides, like mashed potatoes, fries, or a simple green salad. Garnish with extra bacon, cheese, or pickles, if desired!

Tips for the Best Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Don’t Overmix: Mixing the meat too much can make your meatloaf dense. Mix until everything is just combined.
Use Freshly Cooked Bacon: Cooking the bacon fresh ensures the best flavor and crispy texture.
Cheese Lovers: Add extra shredded cheddar or a layer of cheese in the middle of the meatloaf for an extra cheesy surprise.

Variations to Try

Turkey or Chicken: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Stuffed Meatloaf: Add a layer of sliced cheese or sautéed mushrooms in the center for added flavor.
BBQ Twist: Swap the ketchup glaze for your favorite barbecue sauce for a smoky, tangy flavor.

Storing & Reheating Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freeze: Wrap the cooked meatloaf tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheat: Warm slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or in the microwave until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the meatloaf and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

Q: Can I use a different cheese?
Absolutely! Try Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick.

Why This Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Will Be a Family Favorite

Combining the irresistible flavors of a bacon cheeseburger with the heartiness of a classic meatloaf, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Easy to make and even easier to eat, it’s the perfect comfort meal for any occasion.

Share Your Creations! 🍔🥓

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Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf