Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf
Description
This Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf combines all the best parts of a classic cheeseburger in one juicy, comforting meatloaf. Seasoned ground beef is loaded with melted cheddar, topped with crispy bacon, and finished with a tangy ketchup glaze. It’s hearty, cheesy, and perfect for a family dinner.
Ingredients
2 lb (900 g) ground beef
1 small onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup breadcrumbs
2 large eggs
½ cup milk
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
2 tbsp ketchup
1 tsp yellow mustard
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp salt
1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
Cheeseburger Glaze
½ cup ketchup
2 tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp yellow mustard
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Make the meat mixture:
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, pepper, and salt. Mix gently until just combined.
3. Add the cheese:
Press about two-thirds of the meat mixture into the prepared pan. Create a shallow well down the center and add 1 cup of shredded cheddar and half of the crumbled bacon.
Cover completely with the remaining meat mixture and seal the edges.
4. Make the glaze:
Whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce.
5. Bake:
Spread half of the glaze over the meatloaf and bake for 45–55 minutes.
6. Add the toppings:
Spread the remaining glaze over the top. Sprinkle with the remaining cheddar and bacon.
Return to the oven and bake for another 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the meatloaf reaches 160°F (71°C) internally.
7. Rest:
Let the meatloaf rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing. This helps keep the cheesy center from spilling out.
Serving Ideas
Serve with mashed potatoes, crispy oven fries, roasted broccoli, green beans, or a simple garden salad. Pickles and extra burger sauce on the side make it taste even more like a bacon cheeseburger.
Q&A
Q: Can I use ground turkey?
Yes, ground turkey can be substituted, but cook it to 165°F (74°C).
Q: What cheese works best?
Cheddar is classic, but American, Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella also work well.
Q: Can I make it ahead?
Yes. Assemble the meatloaf, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Q: Can I freeze it?
Yes. Freeze cooked slices in an airtight container for up to 3 months.