Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Bake

If cold days or busy schedules keep you far from the grill, this Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf gives you all the classic burger flavors from your oven. Smoky bacon and sharp cheddar run through the tender beef, delivering a juicy meatloaf with irresistible cheeseburger vibes. Slide thick slices onto your plate with mashed potatoes or go full diner style and sandwich them inside a bun.

I first served this on a rainy weeknight when burgers were out of the question and now it is the most requested comfort food in my house for potlucks and cold nights alike.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: Choose a mix with a bit of fat for juiciness Look for bright red color with no grey patches
• Bacon: Brings smoky salty depth Be sure to cook crisp and chop evenly
• Sharp cheddar cheese: Adds tang and melt Look for a block you freshly shred for best texture
• Breadcrumbs: Binds the loaf and keeps it moist Use plain or seasoned as you prefer
• Ketchup: Offers tang and balances richness Choose a brand you love for classic flavor
• Mustard: Brightens everything Yellow mustard gives that burger shop taste
• Worcestershire sauce: Deep umami to echo grill flavors Opt for a bold aged sauce if possible
• Onion: Chopped fine for sweet savory flavor Look for firm onions with papery skins
• Garlic: Minced for aromatic punch Use fresh bulbs for best zing
• Eggs: Binds while adding tenderness Use large eggs ideally at room temperature
• Salt and pepper: Balances and sharpens flavors Taste as you mix for perfect seasoning
• Topping: Ketchup mustard and brown sugar mix for a sweet tangy glaze Choose dark brown sugar for extra richness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius so the heat is even throughout Place the rack in the middle for best cooking

Mix the Meat Mixture:

In a large mixing bowl combine your ground beef crumbled bacon shredded cheddar breadcrumbs ketchup mustard Worcestershire sauce chopped onion minced garlic beaten eggs salt and pepper Use your hands to gently fold the mixture so everything is evenly distributed Do not overmix to keep it tender

Shape and Pack the Loaf:

Transfer the meat mixture into a lightly greased loaf pan and press gently to shape Avoid packing too tightly so juices stay inside as it bakes

Make and Spread the Topping:

In a small bowl mix ketchup mustard and brown sugar until smooth Spread this glaze evenly over the top of your shaped meatloaf It will caramelize beautifully as it bakes

Bake to Perfection:

Slide the loaf pan into your preheated oven Bake for 1 hour Check for doneness the juices should run clear and the center reaches at least 160 degrees Fahrenheit The topping should be bubbling and sticky

Let It Rest:

Out of the oven let your meatloaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes before slicing This crucial step keeps juices inside and slices neat

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My favorite part is the topping—how it gets sticky and almost candy like in the oven Never fails to stick extra to the corners and my kids and I always sneak a bite as we pull it from the pan

Storage Tips

Let leftovers cool fully before covering tightly with plastic wrap or transferring to a sealed container. In the fridge slices will keep for three to four days and can be reheated gently in the microwave or oven. For longer storage freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic then foil. Reheat from frozen at low heat for best results.

Ingredient Swaps

No sharp cheddar on hand swap in your favorite melty cheese like monterey jack swiss or even pepper jack for a little kick. Ground turkey or a half-beef half-turkey blend also works if you want it lighter. Gluten free try your favorite gluten free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers.

Serving Suggestions

Serve classic slices with mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a diner feel. For a cheffy twist pile thick slices inside toasted buns with lettuce tomato and pickle. Or dice up cold leftovers and tuck into tortillas for a hearty lunch wrap.

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Cultural Notes

Classic meatloaf is a backbone of American family cooking and this recipe gives it a playful nod to fast food flavors. It is a little nostalgia a little homey and a lot of fun to share.

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I keep the meatloaf from drying out?

Mixing in eggs, breadcrumbs, and condiments like ketchup helps retain moisture, and letting it rest before slicing keeps it juicy.

→ What cheese works best for this meatloaf?

Sharp cheddar offers bold, classic flavor, but you can swap in Monterey Jack or Swiss for tasty variations.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, the loaf can be assembled ahead and chilled. Bake just before serving and extend baking time a bit if cold.

→ How do I know when the meatloaf is cooked through?

Use a meat thermometer; the center should reach 160°F. The glaze should also be bubbling and caramelized.

→ What are some good sides to serve with it?

Mashed potatoes, green beans, roasted vegetables, or classic fries all pair beautifully with this comforting main.

→ Is it suitable for sandwiches?

Definitely! Slice and serve on bread or buns with your favorite toppings for a burger-inspired meal.