Description
Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is a delightful fusion of two comfort food classics: the traditional meatloaf and the all-American bacon cheeseburger. This recipe combines ground beef with the flavors of a cheeseburger, including cheddar cheese, tangy pickles, and a savory glaze, all wrapped in crispy bacon. The result is a juicy, flavorful meatloaf that’s perfect for family dinners or special gatherings. Whether you’re looking for a dish that pleases a crowd or simply craving something indulgent, this meatloaf delivers on all fronts.
Ingredients
- 1 lb 450g ground beef
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup milk
- ¼ cup ketchup
- ¼ cup finely chopped onion
- ¼ cup finely chopped dill pickles
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 4 slices bacon
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
Glaze:
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon mustard
Instructions
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Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Mix Meatloaf Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, ketchup, onion, pickles, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
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Form Loaf:
Shape the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in a baking dish or loaf pan.
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Wrap with Bacon:
Lay the bacon slices over the top of the meatloaf, tucking the ends underneath.
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Add Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the bacon.
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Make Glaze:
In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Spread the glaze over the top of the meatloaf.
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Bake:
Transfer the meatloaf to the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C) and the bacon is crispy.
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Rest and Serve:
Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve slices of meatloaf with your favorite sides.
Notes
- Meat Selection: Ground beef is the classic choice for this recipe, but you can easily substitute ground turkey, chicken, or pork depending on your preferences. If using a leaner meat like turkey, consider adding extra moisture (such as an extra splash of milk or some sautéed vegetables) to prevent dryness.
- Cheese Choices: Cheddar cheese provides a sharp, tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the beef and bacon. However, feel free to experiment with other types of cheese like Swiss, pepper jack, or mozzarella, depending on your taste preferences.
- Bacon Options: While regular bacon adds a rich, smoky flavor and crispy texture, you can also use turkey bacon or a lower-fat version if desired. Keep in mind that turkey bacon may not crisp up as much as pork bacon, so you might need to broil it for a minute or two at the end.
- Gluten-Free Adjustments: To make this recipe gluten-free, replace the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs, rolled oats, or almond flour. Ensure all other ingredients, such as Worcestershire sauce and ketchup, are certified gluten-free.
- Spice it Up: For a spicy twist, add diced jalapeños to the meat mixture or a few drops of hot sauce to the glaze. This will give the meatloaf a nice kick that complements the other flavors.
- Make-Ahead Tip: This meatloaf can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking, making it an excellent option for meal prep. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
- Serving Suggestions: This meatloaf pairs wonderfully with classic sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad. For an extra touch, serve with a side of ketchup, barbecue sauce, or mustard to mimic the flavors of a traditional cheeseburger.