Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe

There's nothing quite like the comforting taste of a classic bacon cheeseburger—juicy beef, crispy bacon, melted cheese, and all the right seasonings. Now imagine all that goodness transformed into a hearty, sliceable meatloaf that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. This Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf takes everything you love about a burger and bakes it into a tender, flavorful loaf that the whole family will devour.

I first made this meatloaf on a whim when I had extra ground beef and some leftover bacon from breakfast. The result? A dish so delicious that my family now requests it regularly! It’s packed with melty cheddar, crispy bacon, and a tangy ketchup-mustard glaze that ties it all together beautifully.

Why You'll Love This Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Get ready to fall in love with a meatloaf that delivers big on flavor and nostalgia. If you’re a fan of bacon cheeseburgers, this is about to become your new favorite dinner recipe.

First off, it’s packed with flavor. Between the crispy bacon, gooey cheddar cheese, and a blend of seasonings that mimic a classic burger, every bite is pure comfort food bliss.

It’s also incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients and a simple mixing method, you’ll have a delicious meatloaf ready for the oven in no time.

This recipe is budget-friendly too. It uses simple, affordable ingredients that you likely already have on hand, making it a great choice for feeding a family without breaking the bank.

Best of all, it’s perfect for leftovers. Slice it up for sandwiches the next day, or reheat it for a quick and satisfying lunch. Either way, you won’t be disappointed!

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf lies in its simple yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a key role in delivering that unmistakable cheeseburger taste.

Ground beef is the star of the show. I recommend using an 80/20 blend for the perfect balance of juiciness and structure. Too lean, and your meatloaf may turn out dry; too fatty, and it might fall apart.

Bacon adds incredible smoky, savory flavor. Chop it into small pieces and cook it until crispy before mixing it into the meatloaf. This ensures every bite has that signature bacon taste.

Cheddar cheese is essential for that cheeseburger experience. I prefer sharp cheddar for its bold flavor, but mild cheddar or even a blend of cheeses will work just as well.

Breadcrumbs and eggs act as the binding agents, keeping the meatloaf moist and holding everything together. Panko breadcrumbs work particularly well, but regular breadcrumbs will do the trick too.

Finally, the ketchup-mustard glaze brings it all home. A mix of ketchup, mustard, and a touch of Worcestershire sauce creates a tangy, slightly sweet topping that perfectly complements the rich meatloaf.

How To Make This Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Making this meatloaf is as simple as mixing, shaping, and baking. Here’s how to bring it all together.

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. While it heats up, cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until it’s crispy. Once done, set it aside on a paper towel to drain excess grease.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to gently mix everything together—be careful not to overwork the meat, or your meatloaf could turn out dense.

Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in a loaf pan. In a small bowl, mix together ketchup, mustard, and a bit of brown sugar to create the glaze. Spread it evenly over the top of the meatloaf.

Bake for about 50-55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F. If you want a slightly caramelized topping, you can broil the meatloaf for the last 2-3 minutes.

Once it’s done, let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping your meatloaf tender and juicy.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, you’re in luck—this meatloaf stores beautifully! Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

For longer storage, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll last in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm slices in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are a few ways to switch things up:

If you prefer a leaner option, swap the ground beef for ground turkey. You may need to add a little extra moisture, like a splash of milk, to keep it from drying out.

Want a spicy kick? Mix in some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture for a fiery twist.

For a low-carb version, skip the breadcrumbs and use crushed pork rinds instead. It maintains the texture while keeping it keto-friendly.

Not a fan of cheddar? Try a different cheese! Pepper jack, Swiss, or even blue cheese can add a unique flavor to your meatloaf.

However you decide to make it, this Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is bound to be a hit. Give it a try and watch it become a family favorite in no time!

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