Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf: A Comfort Food Classic with a Savory Twist
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Few dishes capture the heart of comfort food quite like a juicy, cheesy, bacon-loaded meatloaf. If you love a classic bacon cheeseburger, this Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf delivers all the bold flavors in one hearty, easy-to-make dish. Savory ground beef, crispy bacon, and sharp cheddar cheese come together in a perfectly seasoned loaf, offering a satisfying meal that’s ideal for busy weeknights, potlucks, or Sunday dinners.
This bacon-infused meatloaf isn’t just another ground beef recipe—it’s packed with smoky, cheesy goodness, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Serve it with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a crisp salad for a complete, comforting meal.
Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe that will quickly become a staple in your home!
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Ingredients: What You’ll Need and Why
Meatloaf Base
Ground Beef (1 ½ lbs.) – Use 80/20 ground beef for the best balance of flavor and juiciness. Leaner beef can make the meatloaf too dry.
Breadcrumbs (¾ cup, plain or seasoned) – Helps bind the meatloaf together and absorbs juices, keeping it moist.
Eggs (2 large) – Acts as a binder, ensuring the meatloaf holds its shape.
Milk (¼ cup) – Adds moisture and prevents the meat from drying out.
Worcestershire Sauce (1 tbsp.) – Enhances the umami flavor with a rich, tangy depth.
Salt (1 tsp.) & Black Pepper (½ tsp.) – Essential seasonings to bring out the best flavors.
Garlic Powder (½ tsp.) & Onion Powder (½ tsp.) – Boosts the savory taste, complementing the beef and bacon.
Bacon & Cheese Filling
Bacon (8 slices, cooked and crumbled) – Adds smoky, crispy texture and an extra layer of indulgence.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese (1 cup, shredded) – Provides bold, tangy cheesiness that melts into the meatloaf, making every bite irresistible.
Glaze
Ketchup (½ cup) – The classic meatloaf topping for a slightly sweet and tangy finish.
Yellow Mustard (1 tbsp.) – Adds a hint of tang, balancing the sweetness of the ketchup.
Brown Sugar (2 tbsp.) – Caramelizes as it bakes, creating a glossy, flavorful topping.
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Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the bacon until crispy, then crumble and set aside.
Shred the cheddar cheese if not using pre-shredded.
Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Use clean hands or a spoon to gently mix everything together—don’t overwork the meat, or it may become dense.
Step 3: Layer with Bacon and Cheese
Place half of the meat mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or into a greased loaf pan.
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon evenly over the meat.
Add the remaining meat mixture on top and shape it into a loaf, ensuring the filling is completely sealed inside.
Step 4: Apply the Glaze
In a small bowl, mix ketchup, mustard, and brown sugar.
Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf for a flavorful, caramelized crust.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake uncovered for 50–60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Let the meatloaf rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. This helps retain its juices.
Why This Recipe Is a Favorite
✔️ Bacon & cheese in every bite – No boring meatloaf here! The gooey cheddar and crispy bacon take this dish to the next level.
✔️ Perfectly juicy – Using breadcrumbs, eggs, and milk ensures a moist, tender loaf every time.
✔️ Easy & budget-friendly – Uses pantry staples and simple ingredients you probably already have.
✔️ Crowd-pleasing – Whether for family dinners or gatherings, everyone loves the flavors of a bacon cheeseburger in meatloaf form.
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Pro Tips for the Best Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf
✅ Use high-quality cheddar cheese. Aged, sharp cheddar provides the best flavor and melts beautifully.
✅ Cook the bacon until crispy. Soggy bacon won’t add the same crunch or smoky depth.
✅ Let it rest before slicing. This prevents the meatloaf from falling apart and helps keep it juicy.
✅ Customize the glaze. Prefer a tangier kick? Add a dash of hot sauce or a splash of apple cider vinegar.
✅ Make it ahead. You can prepare the meatloaf mixture a day in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake.
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Serving Suggestions: The Perfect Side Dishes
To turn this into a restaurant-quality meal, pair it with:
Creamy Mashed Potatoes – Classic, buttery mashed potatoes soak up the delicious meatloaf juices.
Garlic Roasted Green Beans – A light, crispy veggie side that balances the richness of the meatloaf.
Mac & Cheese – Double up on the cheesy goodness for the ultimate comfort food feast.
Cornbread or Dinner Rolls – Perfect for soaking up extra glaze and meat juices.
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Final Thoughts: A Must-Try Twist on Meatloaf
This Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is the ultimate comfort food with a gourmet twist. It takes everything you love about a juicy cheeseburger—savory beef, crispy bacon, and melted cheddar—and transforms it into a satisfying, oven-baked masterpiece.
Easy to make, packed with bold flavors, and perfect for meal prep, this recipe is a guaranteed family favorite. Give it a try, and let us know how it turns out!
If you loved t
his recipe, be sure to share it with friends and bookmark it for later—because once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again!