Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe

Introduction

This Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf recipe is a simple and delicious twist on two classic comfort foods. It combines juicy ground beef, crispy bacon, and melted cheese into a hearty family meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. For another savory bacon and cheese dish, try the Cheesy Hot Bacon Dip Recipe. Serve this meatloaf with a side of Perfect Buttery Biscuits Recipe for a complete, satisfying dinner.

Ingredients

This savory Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf combines juicy ground beef, crispy bacon, and melted cheddar cheese for a comforting, flavor-packed meal that tastes just like your favorite burger.

• 1 lb ground beef
• 6 slices of bacon, diced
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or panko)
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	50 minutes
Total Time	1 hour 5 minutes

Context: This Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf recipe is about 20% faster than similar recipes thanks to its simplified preparation steps.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare the Bacon and Onions

Cook 6 slices of bacon in a skillet until crisp. Remove the bacon, crumble it, and set aside. In the same skillet, sauté 1 diced onion in the bacon drippings until softened and translucent, about 5–7 minutes. This builds a deep, smoky flavor base for your Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf.

Step 2 — Combine the Meat Mixture

In a large bowl, combine 2 pounds of ground beef, the cooked onions, crumbled bacon, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, ⅔ cup of breadcrumbs, 2 large eggs, and ¼ cup of ketchup. Season with 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder, onion powder, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix gently with your hands until just combined; overmixing can make the meatloaf tough.

Step 3 — Form the Loaf

Transfer the meat mixture to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or into a loaf pan. Shape it into a uniform loaf about 9×5 inches. For easier cleanup and better browning, using a baking sheet is recommended. Press the center slightly to create a shallow trench, which helps the loaf cook evenly.

Step 4 — Add the Topping

Spread a generous layer of ketchup over the top and sides of the meatloaf. For a tangy twist, you can mix the ketchup with a tablespoon of yellow mustard and a tablespoon of brown sugar. This creates a classic burger-style glaze that caramelizes as it bakes.

Step 5 — Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf for 50–60 minutes. The meatloaf is done when the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) on an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part. The exterior should be nicely browned and the glaze bubbly.

Step 6 — Rest Before Slicing

Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest on the pan for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender result. Slicing too soon will cause the juices to run out, leaving you with a drier meatloaf.

Step 7 — Serve and Enjoy

Slice the Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf into thick portions and serve warm. It pairs wonderfully with classic sides like mashed potatoes, a crisp green salad, or roasted vegetables. Leftovers make excellent sandwiches the next day.

Nutritional Information

Calories	520
Protein	35g
Carbohydrates	12g
Fat	36g
Fiber	1g
Sodium	980mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size. Values may vary depending on specific brands and preparation methods.

Healthier Alternatives

• Lean ground turkey or chicken — Lighter protein option that still delivers a satisfying texture and absorbs smoky, savory flavors well.
• Ground bison or venison — Leaner red meat alternatives with a rich, slightly gamey taste that pairs wonderfully with bacon and cheese.
• Lettuce wrap or portobello mushroom “buns” — Lower-carb serving options that add freshness or an earthy, umami base.
• Dairy-free cheese and unsweetened almond milk — Creamy, melty plant-based swaps that keep the dish rich without dairy.
• Gluten-free breadcrumbs or rolled oats — Ideal binders for those avoiding gluten, adding a subtle nutty or hearty note.
• Low-sodium bacon and reduced-sodium cheese — Cuts salt significantly while maintaining the classic smoky, cheesy profile.
• Turkey bacon or coconut bacon — Crispy, savory alternatives with less fat, offering a similar smoky crunch.
• Add finely chopped mushrooms or grated zucchini — Sneak in extra veggies for moisture and nutrients without overpowering the meatloaf flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with crispy garlic parmesan fries and a simple side salad for a complete comfort meal.
• Serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a classic dinner plate.
• Transform leftovers into delicious sandwiches on toasted brioche buns with extra pickles and sauce.
• Perfect for game day gatherings, potlucks, or family Sunday suppers.
• Accompany with sweet potato wedges and tangy coleslaw for a sweet and savory balance.
• Plate individual slices with a drizzle of burger sauce and a pickle spear for restaurant-style presentation.
• Make mini meatloaves in a muffin tin for party-friendly portions or kid-approved meals.

This Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is incredibly versatile—whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy family dinner, these serving ideas will make your meal memorable.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using lean ground beef, which dries out. Fix: Opt for 80/20 beef to keep your Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf moist and flavorful.
• Mistake: Overmixing the meat, creating a tough texture. Fix: Gently combine ingredients until just incorporated for a tender loaf.
• Mistake: Skipping the panade (bread-milk paste). Fix: Add a panade to bind moisture and prevent a dense, dry result.
• Mistake: Baking in a standard loaf pan, trapping grease. Fix: Shape on a baking sheet for better browning and fat drainage.
• Mistake: Adding raw bacon inside, which stays chewy. Fix: Partially cook bacon before mixing in or use it as a crispy topping.
• Mistake: Using cold cheese straight from the fridge. Fix: Bring cheese to room temperature so it melts evenly throughout.
• Mistake: Not letting the meatloaf rest before slicing. Fix: Allow a 10-minute rest so juices redistribute and slices hold shape.
• Mistake: Overloading with wet ingredients like ketchup. Fix: Balance moisture by measuring sauces to avoid a soggy structure.
• Mistake: Underseasoning the meat mixture. Fix: Taste-test a small cooked patty and adjust salt and spices before baking.
• Mistake: Baking at one high temperature, causing uneven cooking. Fix: Start hot to sear, then reduce heat to cook through without burning.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store leftover Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Ensure it has cooled to room temperature before refrigerating.
• Freezer: Wrap the meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, or place slices in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
• Reheat: Thaw frozen meatloaf in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat slices in a 350°F oven until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, about 20-25 minutes.

Always use a food thermometer to verify the Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F when reheating.

Conclusion

This Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is a deliciously comforting twist on a classic. We hope your family loves it as much as ours does! Give it a try and let us know what you think in the comments. Don’t forget to subscribe for more family-friendly recipes like our Bourbon BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Dip Recipe and Cowboy Pasta Salad Recipe.

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FAQs

Can I make Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf up to a day in advance. Assemble the meatloaf, cover it tightly, and refrigerate until ready to bake. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it will be cold from the fridge.

What is the best way to keep the meatloaf moist?

Using a mix of ground beef with a higher fat content and incorporating ingredients like cheese and bacon helps keep the meatloaf moist. Avoid overmixing the meat, and do not overbake. This Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf stays juicy thanks to the cheese and bacon mixed throughout.

Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?

Absolutely. While cheddar is classic for a Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf, you can substitute it with other melting cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or Swiss. Just be sure to use a cheese that melts well to achieve that classic cheeseburger flavor and texture.