Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe

The Ultimate Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe Everyone Will Love

Nothing beats a hearty bacon cheeseburger meatloaf that combines classic comfort food with irresistible burger flavors.

Classic diner inspiration meets home cooking in this mouthwatering dish.

Juicy ground beef mingles with crispy bacon bits and melted cheese for an epic meal.

Rustic and satisfying, this recipe promises to become a dinnertime favorite.

Packed with robust ingredients, each slice delivers incredible taste and texture.

Hungry friends and family will devour this crowd-pleasing creation faster than you can serve it.

Prepare to transform an ordinary weeknight dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience.

Insider Tips for Meatloaf Perfection

  • Crisp bacon before mixing into the meatloaf to enhance its smoky flavor and prevent soggy texture.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf reaches 160F, guaranteeing safe and perfectly cooked meat.
  • Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lower-fat version without sacrificing taste.
  • Replace breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or crushed pork rinds.
  • Experiment with different BBQ sauces or add a spicy kick by mixing in some sriracha or hot sauce for extra flavor.

Variations to Try with Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

  • Vegetarian Meatloaf Makeover: Replace ground beef with lentils, black beans, or plant-based meat alternatives for a meat-free version packed with protein.
  • Gluten-Free Comfort: Swap breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers to accommodate wheat sensitivities.
  • Low-Carb Keto Adaptation: Use crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs and replace ketchup with sugar-free tomato sauce to create a keto-friendly option.
  • Mediterranean-Inspired Variation: Incorporate feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and herbs like oregano for a Mediterranean flavor profile while keeping the basic meatloaf structure.

Serving Ideas for Meatloaf

  • Burger Bash Plating: Slice the meatloaf thick and serve on a rustic wooden board with crispy french fries or golden roasted potatoes for a hearty meal.
  • Salad Sidekick: Pair with a zesty green salad topped with cherry tomatoes and a tangy vinaigrette to balance the rich, meaty flavors of the meatloaf.
  • Comfort Combo: Create a classic diner-style plate with creamy mac and cheese, steamed green beans, and a dollop of extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping.
  • Leftover Love: Transform cold slices into delicious sandwiches with melted cheese, lettuce, and a smear of mustard on toasted bread for a next-day lunch treat.

Storage Tips for Meatloaf

  • Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container, keeping it fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or place in a sealed container to prevent drying out.
  • Wrap individual slices or the entire meatloaf in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months, ensuring maximum flavor preservation.
  • Slice meatloaf and place on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through, checking temperature to prevent overcooking.

FAQs

  • Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey for a leaner option. Just ensure the turkey is well-seasoned and cooked to the proper internal temperature.

  • How do I prevent the meatloaf from becoming dry?

Mix in ingredients like grated cheese, bacon, and ketchup to keep the meatloaf moist. Also, avoid overcooking and let it rest for 5 minutes after baking to retain juices.

  • Is this recipe gluten-free?

No, the recipe contains breadcrumbs. To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers as a substitute.

Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf: Ultimate Comfort

  • Elevate Classic Comfort: Transform traditional meatloaf into a mouthwatering bacon cheeseburger experience that brings excitement to dinner.
  • Quick Family Pleaser: Whip up a hearty meal that satisfies everyone's cravings with minimal prep and maximum flavor.
  • Crowd-Winning Ingredients: Combine beloved bacon, cheese, and ground beef for a crowd-pleasing dish that guarantees smiles around the table.
  • Foolproof Cooking: Simple mixing and baking steps make this recipe accessible for home cooks of all skill levels, ensuring delicious results every time.

Ingredients for Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Meat Base:
  • Ground Beef: A hearty protein that forms the foundation of this classic meatloaf.
  • Bacon: Adds a smoky, rich flavor and extra crispiness to the meatloaf.
Binding Ingredients:
  • Breadcrumbs: Helps hold the meatloaf together and provides a light texture.
  • Egg: Acts as a binder to keep all ingredients cohesive.
Flavor Enhancers:
  • Cheese: Provides a creamy, melty element that complements the meat.
  • Onion, Garlic Powder, Salt, Pepper: Seasonings that build depth and savory notes.
  • Ketchup, Mustard: Add tangy and sweet undertones to the meatloaf.
Topping:
  • BBQ Sauce: Creates a delicious, caramelized glaze on top of the meatloaf.

Meatloaf Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Fire up your oven to a cozy 350F (175C), getting ready for a mouthwatering meatloaf adventure.

Step 2: Create the Flavor Fusion

Grab a large mixing bowl and toss in these delicious ingredients:
  • Ground beef
  • Breadcrumbs
  • Egg
  • Shredded cheese
  • Crispy bacon bits
  • Diced onion
  • Ketchup
  • Mustard
  • Garlic powder
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Dive in with your hands and mix everything until it’s perfectly blended and looks like a flavor-packed masterpiece.

Step 3: Shape Your Meaty Creation

Mold the mixture into a beautiful loaf shape.

Gently place it in a loaf pan or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 4: Sauce It Up

Drizzle BBQ sauce all over the top of the meatloaf, creating a glossy, tantalizing coating that will make your taste buds dance.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Slide the meatloaf into the preheated oven and let it cook for 55-60 minutes.

You’ll know it’s done when the internal temperature hits 160F (71C).

Step 6: Rest and Slice

Allow the meatloaf to rest for 5 minutes after pulling it out of the oven.

This helps the juices settle, ensuring each slice is incredibly juicy and flavorful.

Slice and serve to hungry dinner guests!

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe

Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 25 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Hearty bacon cheeseburger meatloaf combines classic burger flavors in a comforting dinner classic. Rich beef mixture studded with crispy bacon and melted cheese delivers satisfying home-style goodness you’ll crave.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Protein:

  • 1 1/2 pounds (680 grams) ground beef
  • 6 slices cooked and crumbled bacon

Cheese and Dairy:

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 egg

Binding and Seasoning:

  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup diced onion
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Topping:

  • 1/4 cup BBQ sauce

Instructions

  1. Thoroughly blend ground beef with breadcrumbs, creating a uniform meat mixture that ensures consistent texture and binding.
  2. Incorporate beaten egg, shredded cheese, crispy crumbled bacon, and finely diced onion into the meat blend, mixing gently to maintain meat’s tenderness.
  3. Season the mixture with ketchup, mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, ensuring even distribution of flavors throughout the meatloaf.
  4. Mold the seasoned mixture into a compact, symmetrical loaf shape, pressing gently to eliminate air pockets and create a dense consistency.
  5. Position the meatloaf in a greased loaf pan or on a parchment-lined baking sheet to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.
  6. Generously coat the exterior with tangy BBQ sauce, creating a caramelized glaze that adds rich flavor and attractive appearance.
  7. Slide the prepared meatloaf into a preheated 350F (175C) oven, allowing it to cook evenly and develop a beautifully browned exterior.
  8. Roast for approximately 55-60 minutes, verifying doneness by checking that the internal temperature reaches 160F (71C) using a meat thermometer.
  9. Remove from oven and let the meatloaf rest for 5 minutes, allowing juices to redistribute and ensuring a moist, flavorful result when sliced.

Notes

  • Elevate flavor by using high-quality ground beef with slightly higher fat content for juicier results.
  • Customize the recipe by swapping regular bacon with turkey bacon for a lighter version.
  • Prevent dryness by avoiding overmixing the meat, which can make the meatloaf tough and dense.
  • Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure safe and perfectly cooked meatloaf every time.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 60 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 370 kcal
  • Sugar: 5 g
  • Sodium: 560 mg
  • Fat: 28 g
  • Saturated Fat: 11 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
  • Trans Fat: 1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 10 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 22 g
  • Cholesterol: 90 mg
Jack Monroe

Jack Monroe

Founder & Recipe Innovator

Expertise

Pacific Northwest cuisine, Single-serving recipe development, Sustainable sourcing and cooking, Modern comfort food​

Education

Brightwater
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Focus: Sustainable cooking, seasonal ingredients, and food systems education


Jack grew up with a fishing rod in one hand and a cast-iron skillet in the other. After graduating from Brightwater: A Center for the Study of Food, he set out to prove that cooking for one could still taste like a feast.
Jack believes that food should feel real: fresh, fearless, and a little wild, just like the rivers he grew up around. For Jack, every single dish is a small adventure, and the best ones are the ones you can cook with heart, not hassle.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star