There’s something truly special about a homemade meal that brings together the best of two worlds. Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is exactly that—a creative combination of the savory, smoky flavors of a bacon cheeseburger with the hearty, comforting qualities of traditional meatloaf. It’s the perfect dish to serve when you want to wow your family or guests without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe transforms a classic comfort food into a meal bursting with flavor and personality.
Why You’ll Love Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf
This dish combines everything you love about a bacon cheeseburger—crispy bacon, melted cheddar cheese, and tangy pickles—with the wholesome satisfaction of meatloaf. Here’s why you’ll adore this recipe:
- Flavor-Packed: Every bite is a blend of savory, smoky, cheesy goodness.
- Simple to Make: With easy-to-find ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or even special occasions.
- Customizable: Add your favorite burger toppings or experiment with different cheeses to make it your own.
Ingredients for Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf
Here’s everything you need to make this delectable dish:
Core Ingredients
Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
Ground beef | 1 lb (450g) | Forms the hearty base of the meatloaf. |
Breadcrumbs | ½ cup | Helps bind the meatloaf mixture. |
Milk | ¼ cup | Adds moisture for a tender texture. |
Ketchup | ¼ cup | Provides tangy sweetness. |
Onion | ¼ cup, finely chopped | Adds flavor and moisture. |
Dill pickles | ¼ cup, finely chopped | Infuses the meatloaf with a tangy crunch. |
Garlic | 2 cloves, minced | Enhances the savory depth. |
Worcestershire sauce | 1 tsp | Adds rich umami flavor. |
Salt | ½ tsp | Balances and enhances the flavors. |
Black pepper | ¼ tsp | Provides a subtle kick of spice. |
Bacon | 4 slices | Adds smoky flavor and a crispy topping. |
Cheddar cheese | ½ cup, shredded | Melts to create gooey, cheesy layers. |
For the Glaze
Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
Ketchup | ¼ cup | Creates a glossy, tangy topping. |
Brown sugar | 1 tbsp | Adds a hint of sweetness. |
Mustard | 1 tbsp | Balances the glaze with a touch of acidity. |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat Your Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a loaf pan or baking dish lightly to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Meatloaf Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, ketchup, finely chopped onion, dill pickles, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper.
- Use your hands or a spatula to mix the ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can make the meatloaf dense.
3. Form the Loaf
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared baking dish. Make sure it’s evenly packed for consistent cooking.
4. Wrap with Bacon
- Lay the bacon slices over the top of the meatloaf, tucking the ends underneath. This not only keeps the loaf moist but also adds a crispy, smoky layer.
5. Add the Cheese
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the bacon. This step creates a gooey, cheesy topping that’s impossible to resist.
6. Prepare the Glaze
- In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard until smooth.
- Spread the glaze generously over the top of the bacon and cheese layer.
7. Bake the Meatloaf
- Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). The bacon should be crispy, and the glaze should be caramelized.
8. Rest and Serve
- Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, making every slice tender and flavorful.
- Slice and serve with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Tips for Making the Best Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf
- Use High-Quality Ground Beef: An 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio ensures the meatloaf is juicy and flavorful.
- Customize the Toppings: Add sliced jalapeños, sautéed mushrooms, or even a drizzle of barbecue sauce for extra flavor.
- Make It Ahead: You can assemble the meatloaf up to a day in advance and bake it when ready.
- Add Veggies: Mix in shredded carrots or zucchini for added nutrients and moisture.
- Monitor Cooking Time: Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking and drying out the meatloaf.
Nutritional Information
Nutrient | Per Serving (Approx.) |
Calories | 320 |
Protein | 20g |
Fat | 18g |
Carbohydrates | 12g |
Fiber | 1g |
Sodium | 540mg |
Serving Suggestions
Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery potatoes complement the rich meatloaf perfectly.
- Steamed Vegetables: Green beans, broccoli, or carrots add a fresh and colorful touch.
- Dinner Rolls: Soft, warm rolls are perfect for soaking up extra glaze and juices.
- Coleslaw: A tangy, crunchy side balances the richness of the meatloaf.
Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for a leaner version. Keep in mind that the flavor may be milder, so adjust the seasonings as needed.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in the microwave or oven.
3. Can I freeze Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf?
Absolutely! Wrap the unbaked meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
4. What other cheeses work well in this recipe?
You can use Swiss, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack cheese for different flavor profiles.
5. How do I prevent the meatloaf from falling apart?
Ensure you mix the ingredients well without overworking them. Adding an egg to the mixture can also help bind it together.
6. Can I make individual meatloaf portions?
Yes, divide the mixture into smaller portions and bake them in a muffin tin for mini meatloaves.
Conclusion: A New Favorite for Your Recipe Collection
Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is more than just a meal—it’s a comforting experience that brings everyone to the table. With its savory flavors, cheesy topping, and crispy bacon layer, this dish is destined to become a household favorite. Whether you’re serving it for a casual dinner or a special occasion, it’s guaranteed to impress.
Ready to make your new favorite dish? Gather your ingredients, follow these easy steps, and enjoy the irresistible flavors of Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf. Share this recipe with your friends and family—they’ll thank you for it!
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Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf: A Comforting Twist on a Classic Favorite
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf combines the savory flavors of a bacon cheeseburger with the hearty comfort of traditional meatloaf. With smoky bacon, melted cheddar, and a tangy glaze, this dish is the perfect twist on a classic, sure to satisfy your family or guests with every bite!
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup milk
- ¼ cup ketchup
- ¼ cup finely chopped onion
- ¼ cup finely chopped dill pickles
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 4 slices bacon
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
For the Glaze:
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp mustard
Instructions
- Preheat Your Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan or baking dish lightly to prevent sticking. - Mix the Meatloaf Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, ketchup, finely chopped onion, dill pickles, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper.
Use your hands or a spatula to mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing to prevent a dense meatloaf. - Form the Loaf:
Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared baking dish. Pack it evenly for consistent cooking. - Wrap with Bacon:
Lay the bacon slices over the top of the meatloaf, tucking the ends underneath. This keeps the loaf moist and adds a crispy, smoky layer. - Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the bacon, allowing it to melt into a gooey, cheesy topping. - Prepare the Glaze:
In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard until smooth. Spread the glaze generously over the top of the bacon and cheese layer. - Bake the Meatloaf:
Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). The bacon should be crispy and the glaze caramelized. - Rest and Serve:
Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This step allows the juices to redistribute, making each slice tender and flavorful.
Serve with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Notes
- Use High-Quality Ground Beef: An 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio will ensure the meatloaf stays juicy and flavorful.
- Customize the Toppings: Add sliced jalapeños, sautéed mushrooms, or even barbecue sauce for extra flavor.
- Make Ahead: You can assemble the meatloaf up to a day in advance and bake when ready.
- Add Veggies: Mix in shredded carrots or zucchini for added nutrients and moisture.
- Monitor Cooking Time: Use a meat thermometer to ensure you don’t overcook and dry out the meatloaf.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American