Introduction
This Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is a delicious twist on classic meatloaf, packed with juicy ground beef, crispy bacon, melty cheese, and savory seasonings. It’s tender, smoky, and loaded with bold flavors—bringing the best parts of a cheeseburger into a hearty, comforting dish.
Whether you serve it with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a simple salad, this cheesy, bacon-loaded meatloaf will become a new family favorite!
-Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔️ Super Juicy – A perfect balance of fat and moisture keeps it tender and flavorful.
✔️ Loaded with Cheese & Bacon – Every bite is packed with cheesy, smoky goodness.
✔️ Better Than Classic Meatloaf – Takes traditional meatloaf to the next level.
✔️ Easy & Family-Friendly – Simple ingredients with huge flavors!
-Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
2 lbs ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
½ cup milk
2 eggs
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup cooked bacon, crumbled
For the Topping:
½ cup ketchup
2 tablespoons yellow mustard
1 tablespoon brown sugar
4 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled (for topping)
-Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Line a baking sheet or loaf pan with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
2. Add shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled cooked bacon.
3. Mix gently until everything is well combined, but do not overmix (this keeps it juicy).
Step 3: Shape the Meatloaf
1. Transfer the mixture to a baking sheet or loaf pan.
2. Shape into a loaf form, pressing gently to ensure even cooking.
Step 4: Prepare the Topping
1. In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, mustard, and brown sugar.
2. Spread the mixture evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
Step 5: Bake the Meatloaf
1. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
2. In the last 10 minutes of baking, sprinkle extra crumbled bacon on top.
Step 6: Rest & Serve
1. Remove from the oven and let the meatloaf rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
2. Serve warm with your favorite sides and enjoy!
-Serving Suggestions
With Mashed Potatoes – A perfect comfort food pairing.
With a Side Salad – Lighten it up with fresh greens.
With French Fries – Classic burger flavors with crispy fries.
On a Sandwich – Turn leftovers into a meatloaf sandwich!
-Tips for the Best Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf
Use 80/20 Ground Beef – The extra fat keeps the meatloaf juicy and flavorful.
Use Freshly Shredded Cheese – It melts better than pre-shredded cheese.
Cook & Crumble Bacon First – This prevents soggy bacon in the meatloaf.
Let it Rest Before Slicing – This keeps the meatloaf moist and intact.
Customize the Sauce – Try BBQ sauce, spicy ketchup, or honey mustard!
-Variations & Flavor Twists
1. BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf
Swap ketchup for BBQ sauce in the topping.
Add diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
2. Low-Carb/Keto Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf
Use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs.
Skip the brown sugar in the sauce.
3. Stuffed Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf
Create a pocket in the center of the meatloaf.
Fill with extra cheese or sautéed mushrooms.
4. Spicy Jalapeño Meatloaf
Add chopped jalapeños to the meat mixture.
Use pepper jack cheese for extra heat.
-Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
❄️ Store leftovers – Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze for later – Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheat – Warm slices in the microwave or bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
-Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the meatloaf a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake.
2. How do I keep meatloaf from falling apart?
Use eggs and breadcrumbs to bind the mixture.
Let the meatloaf rest before slicing to keep it firm.
3. Can I cook this in an air fryer?
Yes! Shape the meatloaf into a smaller loaf and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 30-35 minutes.
4. What’s the best cheese for this recipe?
Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Pepper Jack work best for gooey, melty goodness!
-Final Thoughts
This Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is a flavor-packed, cheesy, and smoky twist on a classic dish. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, meal prep, or a special family gathering, this meatloaf will be an instant hit.
Try this easy, mouthwatering meatloaf recipe today, and enjoy the ultimate comfort food with a burger-inspired twist!