Combining a cheeseburger and meatloaf into one dish brings together the best of both worlds, resulting in a flavorful and satisfying meal. This fusion of two classic comfort foods offers versatility, allowing for endless customization based on personal tastes. The appeal lies in its hearty nature, perfect for family dinners or gatherings. The trend of hybrid comfort foods like this is growing as people seek creative and delicious ways to enjoy their favorite dishes in new forms.

What is Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf?

Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is a creative and hearty dish that combines the savory elements of a classic cheeseburger with the comforting texture of meatloaf. The dish typically includes ground beef, crispy bacon, melted cheese, and a variety of seasonings, all baked into a loaf. This fusion results in a rich, juicy flavor profile with the smokiness of bacon and the gooeyness of cheese, setting it apart from traditional meatloaf, which lacks the burger elements. Variations include adding different cheeses, using alternative meats, or incorporating unique toppings like pickles or barbecue sauce for extra flavor.

Why You Should Try It

Combining two beloved dishes like a cheeseburger and meatloaf into one creates a meal that’s both comforting and indulgent. The rich flavors of bacon, cheese, and seasoned ground beef make it irresistible for those who enjoy hearty, flavorful dishes. Nutritionally, it’s packed with protein from the beef, bacon, and cheese, making it a satisfying option for a main course. Its popularity stems from its ability to please a crowd, making it a favorite at family dinners and gatherings. The dish’s versatility also allows for easy customization to suit different tastes and dietary preferences.

Ingredients Breakdown

Key Ingredients:

• Ground Beef: The foundation of the meatloaf, providing a rich, savory flavor. Opt for 80/20 beef for the best balance of flavor and moisture.
• Bacon: Adds smokiness and a crisp texture. Use thick-cut bacon for a robust flavor.
• Cheese: Typically cheddar, which melts beautifully and adds a creamy, tangy contrast to the meat.

Ingredient Substitutions:

• Turkey Bacon: A leaner alternative to traditional bacon, for those seeking to reduce fat content.
• Plant-Based Ground Meat: Ideal for vegetarians, offering similar texture and flavor.
• Low-Fat Cheese: For a lighter option without compromising on taste.

Tips for Selecting Quality Ingredients:

• Ground Beef: Choose freshly ground beef with a bright red color and no gray spots.
• Bacon: Look for bacon with a good meat-to-fat ratio, and avoid those with excessive nitrates.
• Cheese: Opt for a high-quality cheddar that is sharp and well-aged for the best flavor impact.

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Prepping the Ingredients:

• Chopping and Measuring: Dice onions, shred cheese, and measure out breadcrumbs, seasonings, and sauces. Lay out bacon strips.

2. Mixing and Forming the Meatloaf:

• Mixing: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, onions, breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings. Gently mix until ingredients are well-incorporated.
• Forming: Shape the mixture into a loaf on a lined baking sheet or in a loaf pan.

3. Wrapping with Bacon and Adding Cheese:

• Bacon Wrapping: Lay bacon strips over the loaf, slightly overlapping them. Tuck ends under the loaf.
• Cheese Layering: Insert cheese slices or chunks into the center of the loaf or top with shredded cheese before baking.

4. Making the Perfect Glaze:

• Glaze Preparation: Mix ketchup, mustard, and brown sugar for a classic glaze, or try a BBQ glaze for a smoky flavor.
• Application: Brush the glaze evenly over the bacon-wrapped loaf during the last 15 minutes of baking for a glossy, flavorful finish.

Cooking Instructions

1. Baking Times and Temperatures:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Bake the bacon-wrapped meatloaf for 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on loaf size.

2. Ensuring Even Cooking:

• Place the meatloaf on the middle rack to ensure even heat distribution.
• If using a loaf pan, make sure it’s not overcrowded to allow air circulation.

3. Checking Internal Temperature for Doneness:

• Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should reach 160°F (71°C) for ground beef.
• Insert the thermometer into the center of the loaf, avoiding contact with cheese or bacon to get an accurate reading.

Serving Suggestions

1. Classic Side Dishes:

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes complement the rich flavors of the meatloaf.
• Green Beans: Lightly steamed or sautéed green beans add a fresh, crisp contrast.
• Corn on the Cob: Adds sweetness and texture.

2. Creative Serving Ideas:

• Leftover Sandwiches: Slice the meatloaf and serve on a bun with lettuce, tomato, and extra cheese.
• Meatloaf Sliders: Perfect for parties, using small buns and adding pickles or a special sauce.

3. Beverage Pairings:

• Beer: A cold lager or amber ale complements the smoky, savory flavors.
• Red Wine: A robust red like a Zinfandel or Cabernet Sauvignon enhances the meat’s richness.
• Iced Tea or Lemonade: Refreshing and balances the dish’s richness.

Expert Cooking Tips

1. Keeping the Meatloaf Moist:

• Mix Gently: Over-mixing can make the meatloaf dense. Combine ingredients just until they hold together.
• Add Moisture: Incorporate ingredients like grated onion, milk-soaked breadcrumbs, or a mix of sauces to keep the meatloaf juicy.

2. Getting Crispy Bacon Without Burning the Cheese:

• Par-Cook Bacon: Partially cook the bacon before wrapping the meatloaf to ensure it crisps up without burning.
• Shield the Cheese: Add cheese during the last 10 minutes of baking or cover it with foil to prevent burning.

3. Customizing the Recipe:

• Spice It Up: Add jalapeños, hot sauce, or pepper jack cheese for a kick.
• Sweet and Savory: Experiment with a maple glaze or brown sugar-bacon wrap for a sweet contrast to the savory meatloaf.

Common Questions

1. How to Store and Reheat Leftovers:

• Storage: Wrap leftover meatloaf tightly in foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or in a microwave on medium power to avoid drying out.

2. Can This Recipe Be Made Ahead of Time?

• Yes, you can assemble the meatloaf a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator, then bake it just before serving.

3. What Are Some Alternative Toppings or Glazes?

• Toppings: Sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, or pickles.
• Glazes: BBQ sauce, teriyaki glaze, or a mix of honey and Dijon mustard for a sweet-savory twist.

Final Thoughts

Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is a delicious fusion that brings together the best elements of two classic comfort foods. It offers a satisfying blend of flavors and textures, perfect for family meals or gatherings. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different ingredients, toppings, and glazes to make the recipe your own. Whether you stick to the traditional method or try new variations, this dish is sure to impress. Give it a try and share your results, inspiring others to enjoy this creative and hearty meal!

Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

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• Author: Christine

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Description

This Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is a delicious fusion of two classic comfort foods. Juicy ground beef is combined with smoky bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and a blend of savory seasonings to create a mouthwatering dish. Wrapped in crispy bacon and topped with a flavorful glaze, this meatloaf delivers the best of both worlds in every bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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

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Instructions

• Preheat Oven:

  Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

• 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.

• Form Loaf:

  Shape the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in a baking dish or loaf pan.

• Wrap with Bacon:

  Lay the bacon slices over the top of the meatloaf, tucking the ends underneath.

• Add Cheese:

  Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the bacon.

• Make Glaze:

  In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Spread the glaze over the top of the meatloaf.

• 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.

• 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

Feel free to customize the recipe to suit your taste! Try different cheeses, add spicy elements like jalapeños, or experiment with various glazes to create your perfect version of this hearty meal. Enjoy!