Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe

There’s something about a hearty, comforting Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf that makes it a favorite at the dinner table. Juicy, flavorful beef mixed with melty cheese, smoky bacon, and the tangy goodness of ketchup is everything you love about a classic cheeseburger—wrapped into one easy-to-make dish.

The first time I made this recipe, it was an instant hit with my family. It’s the perfect combination of nostalgic flavors and modern convenience, ideal for weeknight dinners or a cozy weekend meal. Let me walk you through the simple steps to create this crowd-pleaser.

Why You'll Love This Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Get ready to experience your favorite burger flavors in a brand-new way. This Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is about to become your go-to comfort dish.

1. Unbeatable flavor: Every bite is loaded with juicy beef, smoky bacon, gooey cheese, and a touch of tangy sweetness from ketchup. It’s like a cheeseburger—but better!
2. Easy to prepare: With simple ingredients and a straightforward method, this recipe comes together in no time. It’s perfect for busy weeknights.
3. Family-friendly: Picky eaters? No problem. Everyone loves the familiar flavors of bacon and cheeseburgers, making this a hit across the board.
4. Leftover gold: This meatloaf reheats beautifully, and leftovers are versatile enough for sandwiches, wraps, or a quick protein-packed snack.

Whether you're serving it as the centerpiece of a big family dinner or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe never disappoints.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf lies in its combination of classic ingredients. Here's what makes each one special:

• Ground beef: Opt for 80/20 ground beef for the best balance of flavor and juiciness. Leaner beef can work but may result in a drier texture.
• Breadcrumbs: These bind the meatloaf together while adding a light, tender texture. Panko breadcrumbs work especially well for a subtle crunch.
• Cheddar cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar brings bold flavor and melts beautifully into the loaf. You can substitute with Colby Jack or even pepper jack for a spicy kick.
• Bacon: Crispy, smoky bacon crumbles add a burst of flavor throughout the meatloaf. Cook the bacon ahead of time to save prep time.
• Ketchup and mustard: These classic burger condiments bring a tangy, sweet, and savory balance to the dish. Use Dijon mustard for a deeper flavor.
• Eggs: Essential for binding the ingredients together, ensuring the loaf holds its shape.
• Onions: Finely diced onions bring subtle sweetness and moisture to the meatloaf. If you’re not a fan, you can use onion powder as a substitute.

Finally, you’ll need a loaf pan for even cooking and to help the meatloaf hold its classic shape.

How to Make This Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Creating this Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is a breeze. Let’s break it down step by step.

1. Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a standard loaf pan. This ensures an easy release after cooking.
2. Mix the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, cheddar cheese, and diced onion. Add in the cooked bacon crumbles, 2 tablespoons of ketchup, 1 tablespoon of mustard, and a dash of salt and pepper. Use clean hands to gently mix everything until well combined.
3. Shape and fill the loaf: Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan, pressing it gently to form an even layer. Smooth the top with the back of a spoon.
4. Top with sauce: Spread a thin layer of ketchup over the top of the loaf for that classic meatloaf glaze. If desired, sprinkle extra cheese or bacon bits on top for an indulgent finish.
5. Bake: Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). For an extra-crispy top, broil for the final 2 minutes.
6. Rest and slice: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps lock in the juices and ensures clean slices.

Serve with your favorite sides—mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad—and enjoy!

Storage Options

This Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is just as delicious the next day. Here’s how to store and reheat it:

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Be sure to let the meatloaf cool completely before refrigerating.
• Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes, or in the microwave for 1–2 minutes until warmed through.

Variations and Substitutions

The beauty of this recipe is its adaptability. Here are some fun ways to switch things up:

1. Make it spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture for a fiery twist.
2. Swap the cheese: Try mozzarella, Swiss, or even blue cheese crumbles for a unique flavor profile.
3. Go low-carb: Replace the breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour for a keto-friendly version.
4. Add veggies: Mix in finely grated carrots or zucchini for extra moisture and a hint of sweetness.
5. Use ground turkey or chicken: For a lighter version, substitute ground beef with lean ground turkey or chicken.

The possibilities are endless—don’t be afraid to make this recipe your own!

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