Cheesy Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe

Savory Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe That Wows Every Time

Crafting a mouthwatering bacon cheeseburger meatloaf brings comfort food to a whole new level of deliciousness.

Juicy ground beef combines with crispy bacon and melted cheese for an irresistible twist on classic meatloaf.

Rich flavors burst through every single bite, making dinner feel like a celebration.

Weeknight meals can become extraordinary with this simple yet impressive recipe.

Cheese lovers and burger enthusiasts will absolutely adore this hearty dish that feels like a restaurant-quality meal straight from your kitchen.

Memories of childhood dinners merge with modern culinary creativity in this crowd-pleasing recipe.

You are going to want to bookmark this incredible meatloaf that promises to satisfy even the most discerning taste buds.

Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf to Savor

  • Satisfy Comfort Food Cravings: Dive into a hearty meatloaf that combines the classic flavors of a cheeseburger with a home-cooked twist, delivering maximum satisfaction in every bite.
  • Simplify Meal Preparation: Mix ingredients quickly in one bowl, then pop into the oven for a hands-off cooking experience that requires minimal kitchen effort and cleanup.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Dinner Solution: This recipe transforms traditional meatloaf into an exciting meal that appeals to both kids and adults, making it perfect for family gatherings or casual weeknight dinners.
  • Customize with Ease: Swap ingredients or add personal touches like extra cheese or different bacon varieties to make this recipe uniquely yours and keep mealtime interesting.

Ingredients for Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Meat Base:
  • Ground Beef: A flavorful and hearty protein that forms the main structure of the meatloaf.
Dairy and Binding:
  • Eggs, Milk, Shredded Cheddar Cheese: These ingredients help bind the meatloaf together and add rich, creamy texture.
Flavor Enhancers and Seasonings:
  • Bacon, Ketchup, Mustard, Onion, Garlic Powder, Smoked Paprika, Salt, Pepper: These ingredients provide a delicious bacon cheeseburger-inspired taste profile with depth and complexity.
Texture Modifier:
  • Breadcrumbs: These help absorb moisture and create a tender, cohesive meatloaf texture.

How to Prepare Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Crank the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare your loaf pan by coating it with cooking spray or lining with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Create the Meat Mixture

Grab a spacious mixing bowl and toss in:
  • Ground beef
  • Breadcrumbs
  • Eggs
  • Milk
  • Ketchup
  • Mustard
  • Diced onion
  • Garlic powder
  • Smoked paprika
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Gently blend ingredients until just combined, avoiding overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.

Step 3: Add Cheesy Bacon Goodness

Sprinkle in shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon.

Fold these tasty morsels throughout the meat mixture, distributing them evenly.

Step 4: Shape the Meatloaf

Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan.

Press down firmly and smooth the top to create an even surface.

Step 5: Add a Tangy Glaze

Spread a thin layer of ketchup across the top of the meatloaf, creating a mouthwatering golden-brown finish.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Slide the pan into the preheated oven. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature hits 160°F (71°C).

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes after removing from the oven. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful.

Slice and serve hot.

Tips for Perfect Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

  • Ensure ground beef is not overmixed to keep the meatloaf tender and juicy.
  • Choose high-quality bacon for maximum flavor and crispy texture throughout the dish.
  • Allow meatloaf to rest after baking so juices redistribute, creating a more succulent slice.
  • Replace breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour for celiac-friendly version.
  • Consider adding extra cheese on top during last 10 minutes of baking for a crispy, golden crust.

Flavorful Variations on Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

  • Vegetarian Meatloaf: Replace ground beef with plant-based ground meat or lentils, use vegetarian bacon bits, and swap dairy cheese for vegan cheese alternatives.
  • Low-Carb Keto Version: Substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour, use low-carb ketchup, and add extra cheese for binding and flavor.
  • Mediterranean Inspired: Mix in chopped sun-dried tomatoes, feta cheese, and herbs like oregano and basil instead of traditional seasonings.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed pork rinds, ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free, and check seasoning labels carefully.

Pairings to Serve with Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

  • Backyard BBQ Buddy: Slice this hearty meatloaf and serve alongside grilled corn, crispy potato wedges, and a fresh summer salad for a complete outdoor feast.
  • Comfort Dinner Delight: Pair the meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a classic, satisfying family meal that feels like a warm hug.
  • Sandwich Transformation: Slice the cooled meatloaf thinly and create gourmet sandwiches on toasted brioche with extra cheese, lettuce, and a dollop of spicy mayo for a lunch-time twist.
  • Leftover Magic: Crumble cold meatloaf over a bed of mixed greens, add some crispy croutons, and drizzle with ranch dressing for a quick and delicious next-day salad.

Best Way to Store Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

  • Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
  • Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before refrigerating to preserve moisture and prevent drying out.
  • Freeze meatloaf slices in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 3 months, ensuring they are completely cooled before freezing.

FAQs

  • Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option, but the flavor and texture will be slightly different.

  • How do I prevent the meatloaf from becoming dry?

Mix ingredients gently, avoid overmixing, and use a meat thermometer to ensure you don’t overcook. The milk and eggs help keep the meatloaf moist.

  • What if I don't have smoked paprika?

Regular paprika works fine, or you can skip it. The bacon and other seasonings will still provide plenty of flavor.

  • Is this recipe gluten-free?

No, the breadcrumbs contain gluten. You can use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers as a substitute.

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Cheesy Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe

Cheesy Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 17 reviews

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

Description

Hearty bacon cheeseburger meatloaf combines classic comfort with bold burger flavors. Cheese-studded and bacon-wrapped, this dish delivers rich satisfaction for hungry families seeking a nostalgic dinner centerpiece.


Ingredients

Scale

Meat Ingredients:

  • 2 pounds (907 grams) ground beef
  • 6 strips cooked, crumbled bacon

Cheese and Dairy Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) milk

Seasonings and Additional Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) ketchup
  • 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) yellow mustard
  • 1/2 cup (80 grams) diced onion
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven at 375F (190C) and prepare a loaf pan with grease or parchment paper.
  2. In a spacious mixing vessel, thoroughly blend ground beef with breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, ketchup, mustard, diced onion, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until ingredients are just incorporated.
  3. Gently integrate shredded cheddar cheese and crispy crumbled bacon into the meat mixture.
  4. Carefully transfer the meat combination into the prepared loaf pan, ensuring an even distribution and compact surface.
  5. Apply a delicate, uniform coating of ketchup across the meatloaf’s surface to create a zesty glaze.
  6. Position the loaf pan in the preheated oven and roast for 50-60 minutes, monitoring until the internal temperature precisely reaches 160F (71C).
  7. Allow the meatloaf to rest and settle for 10 minutes, enabling juices to redistribute and stabilize.
  8. Slice the meatloaf into hearty portions and serve immediately while warm.

Notes

  • Prevent Dry Meatloaf by mixing ingredients gently and avoiding overmixing, which can make the meat tough and dense.
  • Enhance Flavor Depth by using high-quality bacon and sharp cheddar cheese for more intense taste profiles.
  • Gluten-Free Option can be achieved by substituting breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs to accommodate dietary restrictions.
  • Meal Prep Friendly recipe allows for making ahead and freezing, ensuring convenient and quick future meals by wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and storing in the freezer for up to 3 months.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 60 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 433 kcal
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 580 mg
  • Fat: 32 g
  • Saturated Fat: 13 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
  • Trans Fat: 1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 12 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 29 g
  • Cholesterol: 125 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.

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