Transform your weeknight dinner with this juicy bacon cheeseburger meatloaf that combines two comfort food favorites into one!
Quick Answer: Make bacon cheeseburger meatloaf by combining ground beef, bacon, cheese, and classic burger seasonings. Shape into a loaf, top with more bacon and cheese, then bake at 350°F for 35 minutes until perfectly juicy.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: American
Yield: 4 servings
Dietary: High Protein
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect blend of two comfort food favorites in one delicious dish
- Ready in under an hour with minimal prep work
- Great for meal prep and reheats beautifully
- Budget-friendly way to feed a family
- Freezer-friendly for future meals
Quick Benefits
This bacon cheeseburger meatloaf combines the best of both worlds – juicy meatloaf texture with classic burger flavors. It’s easier than making individual burgers and perfect for busy weeknights when you want comfort food without the fuss.
Ingredients
- 2 lb lean ground beef
- 6 strips bacon, cut into pieces
- 1 cup dill pickle relish, drained
- 3/4 cup crispy fried onions
- 2 large eggs
- 3/4 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp liquid smoke flavor
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, cubed
- 6 strips bacon, whole
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
Instructions
- Drain excess liquid from pickle relish and cube sharp cheddar cheese. Prepare bacon by cutting six strips into pieces and reserving six whole strips for topping.
- In a large bowl, gently mix ground beef, drained relish, crispy fried onions, eggs, panko bread crumbs, Worcestershire sauce, and liquid smoke with your hands. Avoid overmixing to maintain tenderness.
- Fold in the diced bacon pieces and cubed cheddar cheese carefully, ensuring even distribution without overworking the mixture.
- Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in a foil-lined 9×13 inch baking pan. Arrange the whole bacon strips across the top, overlapping slightly for full coverage.
- Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F using a meat thermometer.
- Mix ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard to create the glaze. Brush it evenly over the meatloaf surface, then return to the oven for 5-10 minutes until caramelized and bacon crisps.
- Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing to retain its shape and juiciness. Serve warm with preferred sides.
You Must Know
- Don’t overmix the meat mixture or it will become tough
- Internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C)
- Let rest before slicing to keep juices inside
- Use a loaf pan with drainage holes if possible
- Contains raw eggs – handle accordingly
- If too fatty, use leaner beef or drain excess grease
Serving Suggestions
- Classic burger toppings: lettuce, tomato, pickles
- Garlic mashed potatoes
- Simple green salad
- Sweet potato fries
- Steamed vegetables
- Burger sauce or ketchup for dipping
Creative Variations
- Switch to turkey bacon and ground turkey for a lighter version
- Add diced jalapeños and pepper jack cheese for spicy kick
- Use BBQ sauce and smoked gouda for smokehouse flavor
- Mix in mushrooms for an umami boost
- Add crushed potato chips for extra crunch
Cultural Notes
Meatloaf has been a staple of American comfort food since the Great Depression, while hamburgers gained popularity in the early 1900s. This fusion dish represents the creative evolution of classic American cuisine, combining two beloved comfort foods into a modern family favorite.
Pro Tips
- Use cold ingredients for better binding
- Sauté onions before adding for sweeter flavor
- Create a free-form loaf for more crusty exterior
- Line the bottom of pan with bread slices to absorb excess fat
- Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness
- Let cheese brown slightly for best flavor
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I freeze bacon cheeseburger meatloaf?
A: Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Q: What’s the best cheese to use?
A: Sharp cheddar works best, but American cheese or a blend also works well.
Q: How do I prevent the meatloaf from being greasy?
A: Use a loaf pan with drainage holes or place on a rack in a baking dish.
Q: Can I make this in advance?
A: Yes, prepare up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate before baking.
Q: How do I know when it’s done?
A: Internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).
Health Benefits
While bacon cheeseburger meatloaf is an indulgent dish, it provides significant protein and iron from the beef. Using lean beef and adding vegetables can increase nutritional value. The eggs and cheese contribute essential amino acids and calcium.
Nutrition
(Per serving, estimate) Calories: 650 • Carbs: 15g • Protein: 45g • Fat: 42g • Sodium: 980mg
Notes
For best results, choose high-quality ground beef and real cheese rather than processed alternatives.
Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf
Transform your weeknight dinner with this juicy bacon cheeseburger meatloaf that combines two comfort food favorites into one!
Ingredients
Instructions
Notes
- For best results, choose high-quality ground beef and real cheese rather than processed alternatives.