Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe

If you love the flavors of a classic bacon cheeseburger but want something heartier for dinner, this Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is the perfect dish. It combines juicy ground beef, crispy bacon, gooey melted cheese, and savory seasonings to create a comforting meal the whole family will enjoy. This recipe takes the best parts of a cheeseburger and transforms them into a sliceable, mouthwatering meatloaf that’s easy to prepare.

One of the biggest advantages of this recipe is its versatility. You can customize the ingredients to suit your preferences—whether it’s using different types of cheese, adding some spice, or even swapping ground beef for a leaner option. Plus, it’s a fantastic make-ahead meal that reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.

In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making the perfect Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf—from essential ingredients and step-by-step instructions to expert tips and serving suggestions. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

This Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf isn’t just your average meatloaf—it’s packed with bold flavors and delicious textures that make every bite irresistible. If you’re a fan of juicy cheeseburgers and smoky bacon, this recipe is going to be a new favorite in your kitchen.

1. A Classic Flavor Combination in a New Form

Imagine biting into a bacon cheeseburger but in a tender, juicy meatloaf form. The combination of ground beef, cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and seasonings creates a satisfying meal that delivers all the flavors of a cheeseburger without the bun.

2. Perfectly Moist and Juicy

One of the common complaints about meatloaf is that it can turn out dry. This recipe ensures that doesn’t happen! The fat from the cheese and bacon, along with the right balance of ingredients, keeps the meatloaf incredibly moist and full of flavor. If you want more tips on keeping meatloaf juicy, check out these secrets to juicy meatloaf.

3. Easy to Make, Even for Beginners

Despite its impressive taste, this dish is simple to prepare. With easy-to-follow steps and common ingredients, anyone can make this meatloaf with minimal effort. Wondering if you should bake your meatloaf at 350°F or 375°F? Read more about the best baking temperature for meatloaf.

4. Great for Meal Prep and Leftovers

This meatloaf stores and reheats beautifully, making it an excellent choice for meal prep. Whether you enjoy it fresh out of the oven or as a next-day meal, the flavors only get better with time.

5. A Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Food

Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or a gathering, this meatloaf is always a hit. It’s comforting, flavorful, and pairs well with a variety of side dishes, making it a great option for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients for the Ultimate Flavor

To make the best Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf, you’ll need a combination of classic meatloaf ingredients and the essential elements of a delicious cheeseburger. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in adding flavor, texture, and moisture to the dish.

Main Ingredients:

• Ground Beef (2 lbs): Use 80/20 ground beef for the perfect balance of juiciness and flavor. Leaner beef may result in a drier meatloaf.
• Breadcrumbs (1 cup): Helps bind the meatloaf together while keeping it tender. Panko or regular breadcrumbs work well.
• Eggs (2 large): Essential for binding all the ingredients so the meatloaf holds its shape.
• Cheddar Cheese (1 ½ cups, shredded): Sharp cheddar adds a rich, cheesy bite to every slice. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or mozzarella.
• Cooked Bacon (6 slices, crumbled): Adds a smoky, salty flavor that enhances the meatloaf’s cheeseburger-like taste.
• Onion (1 small, finely diced): Adds moisture and a slight sweetness when cooked.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Brings depth and a savory kick to the mix.
• Pickles (¼ cup, chopped, optional): For an authentic cheeseburger touch, diced pickles add tanginess.

Seasonings & Sauces:

• Salt & Black Pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning the meat mixture.
• Worcestershire Sauce (1 tbsp): Boosts the umami flavor and enhances the meat’s richness.
• Mustard (1 tbsp): Classic cheeseburger ingredient that adds a subtle tang.
• Ketchup (½ cup, divided): Used in both the meat mixture and as a glaze on top for that signature sweetness.
• BBQ Sauce (¼ cup, optional): Adds an extra smoky, slightly sweet glaze.

By using these carefully selected ingredients, you’ll achieve a meatloaf that’s packed with bold, comforting flavors. Now, let’s get into how to put it all together!

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have all the ingredients ready, it’s time to put them together and create the perfect Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf. Follow these simple steps for a juicy, flavorful meatloaf that delivers the taste of a bacon cheeseburger in every bite.

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove and let it drain on a paper towel-lined plate. Once cooled, crumble or chop the bacon into small pieces.

Step 3: Mix the Meatloaf Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine:

• Ground beef
• Breadcrumbs
• Eggs
• Diced onion
• Minced garlic
• Worcestershire sauce
• Mustard
• ¼ cup of ketchup (reserving the rest for the glaze)
• Salt and black pepper

Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the meatloaf dense.

Step 4: Add the Cheeseburger Flavor

Gently fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, chopped pickles (if using), and crumbled bacon. This ensures that every bite is packed with cheeseburger-inspired goodness.

Step 5: Shape the Meatloaf

Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking sheet or loaf pan. Shape it into a loaf, making sure it’s even and compact so it cooks evenly.

Step 6: Prepare the Glaze

In a small bowl, mix the remaining ketchup with BBQ sauce (if using). Brush a generous layer over the top of the meatloaf for a flavorful, caramelized finish.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). If the top starts to brown too much, tent it loosely with foil during the last 15 minutes of baking.

Step 8: Rest and Serve

Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meatloaf moist.

Serve warm with your favorite sides and enjoy a delicious, homemade Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf!

Tips for a Juicy and Flavorful Meatloaf

Making the perfect Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is all about balancing flavors and ensuring the right texture. Follow these expert tips to guarantee a moist, delicious meatloaf every time.

1. Use the Right Ground Beef

Choosing 80/20 ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat) is the key to a juicy meatloaf. Leaner beef can result in a dry texture, while too much fat can make it greasy.

2. Don’t Overmix the Meat

Overmixing can make your meatloaf dense and tough. Mix the ingredients until just combined—handling the meat gently will keep it tender.

3. Add Moisture-Rich Ingredients

Eggs, breadcrumbs, onions, and Worcestershire sauce all help retain moisture. If you want an extra moist texture, you can add a splash of milk or even a spoonful of mayonnaise to the mixture.

4. Let It Rest Before Slicing

After baking, allow the meatloaf to rest for 5–10 minutes before cutting. This helps the juices redistribute so the slices stay moist instead of crumbling apart.

5. Customize the Cheese

Cheddar is the classic choice, but you can experiment with smoked gouda, pepper jack, or mozzarella for a unique flavor twist. Mixing cheese into the meat ensures every bite is cheesy and delicious.

6. Cook the Bacon First for Best Texture

While some recipes call for wrapping the meatloaf in raw bacon, pre-cooking it ensures that you get crispy, flavorful bacon in every bite instead of soggy strips.

7. Use a Meat Thermometer

To avoid undercooking or overcooking, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) for perfectly cooked meatloaf.

8. Try a Freeform Meatloaf

Instead of using a loaf pan, shape the meatloaf by hand on a baking sheet. This allows excess fat to drain away, resulting in a better texture.

With these tips, your Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf will turn out juicy, flavorful, and absolutely irresistible!

Want to know whether milk or water is better for meatloaf? Find out what makes a difference in texture and moisture.

Best Side Dishes to Serve With It

A hearty Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf deserves the perfect side dishes to complement its bold flavors. Whether you’re looking for something classic, comforting, or a bit lighter, here are some of the best options to serve alongside it.

1. Classic Mashed Potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes are a timeless pairing with meatloaf. Their buttery, smooth texture balances the rich flavors of the meat, bacon, and cheese. Add a little garlic or cheddar cheese to enhance the flavor even more.

2. Roasted Vegetables

For a healthier side, try roasting carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper. The slight caramelization from roasting brings out their natural sweetness and adds a nice contrast to the savory meatloaf.

3. Mac and Cheese

If you want the ultimate comfort food experience, pair your meatloaf with creamy, cheesy mac and cheese. The combination of melty cheese and smoky bacon makes this a match made in heaven.

4. Crispy French Fries or Sweet Potato Fries

Since this meatloaf is inspired by a bacon cheeseburger, why not serve it with fries? Classic French fries or baked sweet potato fries add a crispy, salty contrast to the tender meatloaf.

5. Garlic Bread or Dinner Rolls

A warm, buttery piece of garlic bread or soft dinner rolls is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce or juices from the meatloaf.

6. Coleslaw

A side of creamy coleslaw or a tangy vinegar-based slaw adds crunch and freshness, helping to balance out the richness of the dish.

7. Green Salad

For a lighter option, a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the meaty, cheesy flavors of the dish.

With the right sides, your Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf meal will be well-rounded, satisfying, and perfect for any occasion!

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

One of the best things about Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is that it tastes just as good the next day—sometimes even better! Proper storage and reheating will keep it moist and flavorful, whether you’re enjoying leftovers for lunch or meal prepping for the week.

Storing Leftovers

• In the Refrigerator: Allow the meatloaf to cool completely before storing. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• In the Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen meatloaf lasts up to 3 months.

Reheating Methods

To keep your meatloaf juicy when reheating, avoid using high heat, which can dry it out.

• In the Oven (Best Method):
  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Place slices of meatloaf in a baking dish and cover with foil to retain moisture.
  • Heat for 15–20 minutes, or until warmed through.
• In the Microwave (Quickest Method):
  • Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel.
  • Heat in 30-second intervals until hot.
  • To keep it from drying out, add a splash of broth or a little extra ketchup before reheating.
• In a Skillet (For a Crispy Edge):
  • Heat a skillet over medium-low heat and add a little butter or oil.
  • Cook meatloaf slices for 2–3 minutes per side until heated through.

By storing and reheating it properly, your Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf will taste just as delicious as when it was freshly made!

Janet Sharp’s Take on This Dish

When it comes to Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf, it’s all about making it your own. Janet suggests trying a few small tweaks to elevate the flavors even more. For a spicier kick, add some finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheese blends for added depth. And for extra bacon flavor, try wrapping the meatloaf with even more crispy bacon before baking.

These little adjustments can make a big difference and bring out the best in this classic comfort dish.

FAQs

1. Can I make the Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the meatloaf a day ahead and refrigerate it before baking. When you’re ready to cook, simply bake it as directed. This is a great time-saver for busy days.

2. Can I substitute turkey or chicken for ground beef?
Yes, you can use ground turkey or chicken, though they may result in a slightly drier meatloaf. To combat this, consider adding extra moisture with ingredients like grated zucchini or a bit more cheese.

3. How can I make this meatloaf spicier?
To add more heat, mix in some jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the meat mixture. You can also top the meatloaf with a spicy ketchup or sriracha glaze for an extra kick.

4. Can I freeze the meatloaf?
Absolutely! You can freeze the whole meatloaf or individual slices. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store it in a freezer-safe bag. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months.

5. What is the best way to serve this meatloaf?
This meatloaf pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad. You can also serve it with a side of garlic bread or crispy fries for the ultimate comfort food experience.

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Conclusion

This Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines the best of a bacon cheeseburger with the comforting texture of meatloaf. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, it’s sure to be a hit every time. Enjoy!