Bbq Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe

If you love bacon cheeseburgers and meatloaf, this BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf brings the best of both worlds together. Imagine the flavors of a juicy bacon cheeseburger combined with the tender texture of a traditional meatloaf, all smothered in tangy BBQ sauce. This dish is loaded with crispy bacon, gooey cheddar cheese, and seasoned ground beef, making it an indulgent meal that's sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you're serving it for a family dinner or special occasion, this meatloaf is destined to be a hit!

Let’s break down how to make this irresistible BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf step by step.

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What is BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf?

BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is a delicious fusion of a classic bacon cheeseburger and hearty meatloaf. It’s made with seasoned ground beef, crispy bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and a tangy BBQ sauce glaze. The meatloaf is tender on the inside with melty pockets of cheese, while the top gets brushed with BBQ sauce for a sticky, flavorful finish. It's everything you love about a burger in meatloaf form, perfect for an easy dinner that feels special but is simple to make.

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Ingredients List for BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavor-packed meatloaf:

• 1 ½ lbs ground beef (80/20 is ideal for flavor and juiciness)
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers)
• ¼ cup milk
• ¼ cup BBQ sauce (for mixing into the meatloaf)
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon mustard (yellow or Dijon)
• 1 tablespoon ketchup
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the BBQ glaze:

• ½ cup BBQ sauce (for brushing on top)
• 1 tablespoon ketchup (optional, for extra tang)

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Ingredients List for Toppings (Optional)

Add these optional toppings and condiments to give your meatloaf even more of that classic cheeseburger flair:

• Pickle slices – For a tangy bite.
• Sliced onions – Fresh or caramelized onions add extra flavor.
• Lettuce and tomatoes – Serve slices on the side to give the meatloaf a burger-like presentation.
• Extra cheddar cheese – For even more cheesy goodness.

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Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is flexible and can be customized based on your preferences:

• Different cheeses: While cheddar is classic for cheeseburgers, you can try mozzarella, pepper jack, or Swiss cheese for a different flavor.
• Ground meat options: You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or ground chicken for a leaner version. Keep in mind that leaner meats may require extra moisture, so add more milk or an extra egg to prevent the meatloaf from drying out.
• BBQ sauce options: Use your favorite BBQ sauce—whether it’s sweet, smoky, or spicy—to customize the flavor.
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to make the dish gluten-free.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

2. Cook the bacon
In a skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Once cooled, crumble the bacon and set aside.

3. Prepare the meatloaf mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, diced onion, minced garlic, eggs, breadcrumbs, milk, BBQ sauce, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, ketchup, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until just combined—avoid over-mixing, which can make the meatloaf tough.

4. Shape the meatloaf
Transfer the meat mixture to your prepared loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on the baking sheet. Press the mixture down gently to form an even loaf shape.

5. Make the BBQ glaze
In a small bowl, mix together the BBQ sauce and ketchup. Brush half of this glaze over the top of the meatloaf, reserving the other half for later.

6. Bake the meatloaf
Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Halfway through baking, brush the remaining BBQ glaze over the top to create a sticky, caramelized finish.

7. Rest and serve
Once the meatloaf is cooked through, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute and makes the meatloaf easier to slice.

8. Garnish and enjoy
Serve the BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, a side salad, or roasted vegetables. You can also add pickles, sliced onions, or even lettuce and tomato for a cheeseburger-style presentation.

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How to Cook BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s a quick summary of the key steps to make sure your meatloaf turns out perfectly:

1. Mix gently: Be sure not to overmix the meatloaf ingredients to avoid a dense, tough texture. Mix just until everything is combined.
2. Shape the loaf evenly: Whether using a loaf pan or shaping it by hand, make sure the loaf is evenly formed so it cooks uniformly.
3. Add a BBQ glaze midway: Brushing the meatloaf with BBQ glaze halfway through cooking ensures the sauce caramelizes perfectly without burning.
4. Let it rest: Resting the meatloaf for at least 10 minutes after baking helps retain its juices and makes slicing easier.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overmixing the meat: Overworking the meat mixture can result in a tough, dry meatloaf. Mix the ingredients just until combined.
• Not enough seasoning: Meatloaf needs bold flavors, so be sure to season it generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. The bacon, cheese, and BBQ sauce will also add great flavor.
• Skipping the rest time: Letting the meatloaf rest after cooking is crucial for keeping it juicy. Cutting it too soon can cause the juices to run out, leaving the meatloaf dry.
• Undercooking the meatloaf: Be sure to use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for ground beef.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is hearty and flavorful, so here are a few tips to make it even more appealing:

1. Serve with burger toppings: Add slices of pickles, onions, or tomatoes on top of the meatloaf to give it a true cheeseburger feel.
2. Garnish with extra cheese and bacon: Sprinkle extra shredded cheddar cheese or crumbled bacon on top for a finishing touch.
3. Pair with classic sides: Serve with mashed potatoes, fries, coleslaw, or roasted veggies for a complete meal.

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How to Serve BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

This meatloaf is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways:

• As a main dish: Serve thick slices of the meatloaf with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a side salad.
• In a sandwich: Place a slice of the meatloaf between two slices of toasted bread, and add toppings like pickles, lettuce, and extra BBQ sauce for a meatloaf sandwich.
• As leftovers: This meatloaf reheats beautifully and can be enjoyed for lunch or dinner the next day. Reheat in the oven to keep it moist and tender.

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Presentation Ideas for BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Here are a few ideas to elevate the presentation of your BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf:

• Slice and stack: Slice the meatloaf and stack it on a platter, garnished with chopped parsley and extra crumbled bacon.
• Serve on a wooden board: Present the meatloaf on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of extra BBQ sauce and condiments like pickles and onions.
• Garnish with fresh herbs: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or cilantro over the meatloaf adds color and freshness.

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BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe Tips

• Use a meat thermometer: For best results, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches 160°F (71°C) before serving.
• Make it ahead: You can assemble the meatloaf ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it perfect for prepping in advance.
• Reheat leftovers: Leftover meatloaf can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) to maintain its texture and moisture.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
   Yes! You can prepare the meatloaf up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cover and refrigerate it, then bake when ready. You may need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if it’s cold.
2. Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef?
   Absolutely. Ground turkey or chicken can be used in place of ground beef, but keep in mind that these leaner meats can dry out more easily. Add extra moisture by using more milk or even adding a little olive oil.
3. Can I freeze this meatloaf?
   Yes, you can freeze the cooked meatloaf. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven.
4. What BBQ sauce should I use?
   You can use any BBQ sauce you love! Sweet, smoky, or spicy BBQ sauce will all work, depending on your flavor preferences.

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Conclusion

This BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is the ultimate comfort food, combining the juicy, savory flavors of a bacon cheeseburger with the hearty texture of a classic meatloaf. Topped with a sticky BBQ glaze and loaded with cheese and bacon, every bite is packed with flavor. Whether you’re serving it as a family dinner or a casual meal with friends, this meatloaf is guaranteed to impress. Pair it with classic sides like mashed potatoes or coleslaw, and get ready to enjoy a mouthwatering dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your household!

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