Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe

Introduction

If you love cheeseburgers and meatloaf, why not combine them into one mouthwatering dish? Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf takes the best flavors of a juicy bacon cheeseburger and transforms them into a hearty, comforting meatloaf. Packed with smoky bacon, gooey cheese, and perfectly seasoned ground beef, this dish delivers all the satisfaction of a burger—without the bun!

This recipe is perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or even a unique potluck dish. It’s easy to make, customizable, and guaranteed to be a hit at the dinner table. Whether you’re a fan of classic meatloaf or looking for a fresh twist on comfort food, this bacon-wrapped, cheese-filled delight is worth trying!

Now, let’s dive into the details of what makes this meatloaf a must-try meal.

What is Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf?

Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is a flavor-packed hybrid of two beloved American classics: the cheeseburger and traditional meatloaf. Instead of cooking individual patties, all the ingredients of a juicy bacon cheeseburger—ground beef, cheese, and bacon—are mixed and baked into a loaf. The result? A tender, cheesy, and smoky meatloaf with crispy bacon on the outside and melted cheese in the center.

This dish brings the comfort of home-cooked meatloaf with the irresistible flavors of a burger. Plus, it’s easy to customize with different seasonings, fillings, and cheeses. Whether you prefer a classic version or want to spice things up, this meatloaf is a game-changer for weeknight dinners.

Ingredients for the Perfect Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Before we get into the step-by-step instructions, let’s go over the essential ingredients.

Main Ingredients:

• Ground beef (80/20 blend for the best flavor and juiciness)
• Bacon (both for mixing in and wrapping around the meatloaf)
• Cheese (cheddar, Swiss, or mozzarella)
• Eggs (to help bind everything together)
• Breadcrumbs (or a low-carb substitute like almond flour)
• Milk (for moisture and tenderness)
• Ketchup and mustard (for that true cheeseburger taste)
• Onions and garlic (for added flavor)
• Seasonings (salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and paprika)

Each ingredient plays a key role in making the perfectly moist, flavorful, and cheesy meatloaf.

Choosing the Right Meat

The choice of meat is crucial for a juicy and flavorful meatloaf. Here are some tips:

• 80/20 ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat) is ideal—it’s juicy but not overly greasy.
• If you prefer leaner meat, mix in some ground pork or turkey for moisture.
• Avoid extra-lean beef (90/10) unless you add extra fat sources, like cheese or an egg.

The Role of Bacon in Meatloaf

Bacon not only adds a smoky, salty kick, but it also helps keep the meatloaf moist. Here’s how to use it:

• Mixed in: Chopped, crispy bacon pieces inside the meatloaf add texture and bursts of flavor.
• Wrapped around: A bacon weave on the outside creates a crisp, flavorful crust.
• Topping: You can also crumble cooked bacon on top before baking for an extra crunchy layer.

Best Cheeses for a Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

The cheese you use will impact the flavor and texture of the dish. Some top choices include:

• Sharp cheddar – Classic choice that melts beautifully.
• Swiss – Adds a mild, nutty flavor.
• Mozzarella – Great for extra gooey, stretchy cheese.
• Pepper jack – Perfect if you like a spicy kick.

For a stuffed version, use shredded cheese inside the meat mixture, or create a cheese pocket in the center.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s walk through the process.

Preparing the Ingredients

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the bacon (if mixing it in) until crispy, then chop into small pieces.
3. Grate or slice the cheese for stuffing or mixing.
4. Finely dice onions and garlic for better flavor distribution.

Mixing and Seasoning the Meatloaf

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, eggs, milk, breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, mustard, salt, and pepper.
2. Gently mix everything together—don’t overwork the meat, or it will become tough.
3. Fold in the cooked bacon and shredded cheese for extra flavor.

Assembling the Meatloaf with Cheese and Bacon

1. Shape the meatloaf mixture into a loaf on a lined baking sheet.
2. If stuffing with cheese, create a small well in the center, add cheese, and seal it with more meat mixture.
3. Lay bacon strips over the meatloaf, slightly overlapping them for full coverage.

Baking for the Perfect Meatloaf

1. Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes.
2. Check the internal temperature—it should reach 160°F (71°C) for beef.
3. If the bacon isn’t crispy enough, broil for 3-5 minutes at the end.

Resting and Slicing

• Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps retain moisture and prevents crumbling.
• Use a sharp knife to cut clean slices without the cheese oozing out too quickly.

The Best Sides to Serve with Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

A rich and flavorful dish like Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf deserves the perfect side dishes to complete the meal. Here are some great side options that pair beautifully with the dish:

Classic Comfort Sides

• Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes balance the smoky, cheesy richness of the meatloaf.
• Mac and Cheese – Double down on the cheeseburger theme with a side of ultra-creamy macaroni and cheese.
• Sweet Potato Fries – Adds a touch of sweetness and crunch to complement the savory meatloaf.
• Coleslaw – A fresh and tangy contrast to the heavy dish.

Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly Sides

• Cauliflower Mash – A lighter, low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes.
• Grilled or Roasted Vegetables – Brussels sprouts, zucchini, or asparagus are excellent choices.
• Keto Onion Rings – Made with almond flour or crushed pork rinds for a crispy, low-carb alternative.

Other Unique Pairings

• Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up extra juices from the meatloaf.
• Side Salad – A crisp, fresh salad with a light vinaigrette helps balance the dish.
• Pickles and Caramelized Onions – Adds a burger-like finishing touch to the meal.

Looking for the perfect sides to complement this dish? Try:

• A light, refreshing salad, like this Carrot Raisin Salad for a slightly sweet contrast.
• Classic cheeseburger sides, such as homemade fries or mashed potatoes.
• A rice-based side, like the one in this Benihana rice guide, to balance the richness.

Variations and Customizations

One of the best things about Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is how versatile it is. Whether you’re looking for a healthier version or want to spice things up, here are some delicious variations:

Keto and Low-Carb Options

For those following a low-carb or keto diet, make these simple swaps:

• Use almond flour or crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs.
• Choose sugar-free ketchup or make a homemade version.
• Skip the onions or use onion powder to reduce carbs.

Spicy Version for Heat Lovers

If you enjoy a spicy kick, try these modifications:

• Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the meat mixture.
• Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar.
• Sprinkle red pepper flakes into the seasoning mix.

Stuffed Meatloaf Variations

Instead of just mixing the cheese into the meat, try stuffing the meatloaf with different fillings:

• Caramelized onions and mushrooms for a rich umami flavor.
• BBQ sauce and cheddar for a smoky BBQ cheeseburger twist.
• Pickles and mustard for a true cheeseburger taste.

Tips and Tricks for the Best Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Making the perfect meatloaf is easy if you follow these expert tips:

✅ Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overmixing the meat – This makes the meatloaf tough. Mix just until combined.
Skipping the rest time – Let it sit for at least 10 minutes before slicing to retain moisture.
Using lean meat – Go for 80/20 beef for the best texture and juiciness.
Not crisping the bacon – If the bacon isn’t crispy enough, finish with a quick broil for 3-5 minutes.

Extra Flavor Boosters

Add a dash of Worcestershire sauce for a deeper, umami flavor.
Mix in finely diced pickles for extra cheeseburger vibes.
Use smoked paprika for a subtle smoky flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How do I store and reheat leftover meatloaf?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes or use a microwave at 50% power to avoid drying it out.

2. Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture a day in advance and keep it in the fridge until ready to bake. You can also freeze an uncooked meatloaf (wrapped tightly in plastic wrap) for up to 3 months.

3. What’s the best way to keep the meatloaf moist?

To prevent dryness:

• Use enough fat (80/20 beef and bacon help).
• Don’t overbake—check the internal temp and remove at 160°F (71°C).
• Let it rest before slicing to keep juices locked in.

4. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, but it will be leaner and less juicy. If using turkey or chicken, add extra fat (olive oil or cheese) to prevent dryness.

5. What’s the best cheese to use?

Cheddar is the most classic choice, but you can also try Swiss, mozzarella, or pepper jack for different flavors.

Conclusion

Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is the ultimate comfort food that combines the best of both worlds—a juicy cheeseburger and a hearty meatloaf. With its crispy bacon exterior, gooey cheese center, and rich, beefy flavor, this dish is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

Whether you keep it classic, go low-carb, or spice it up, this recipe is highly versatile and easy to customize. Try it for your next family dinner and enjoy the delicious, cheesy, and smoky flavors in every bite!