Meatloaf Reinvented: Dive Into the Cheddar Cheeseburger Meatloaf!

Photo bythe handing dog

When it comes to classic comfort food, meatloaf is often at the top of the list. But what if you could take that beloved dish and make it even better? Introducing the Cheddar Cheeseburger Meatloaf – a savory, cheesy twist that brings all the flavors of your favorite burger into a warm, hearty loaf. Imagine biting into a tender slice of meatloaf, only to discover the gooey, rich goodness of cheddar cheese in every bite. This dish is not just an upgrade; it's a flavor-packed revolution for your weeknight dinner.

The Cheddar Cheeseburger Meatloaf combines the best of two worlds: the simplicity and nostalgia of traditional meatloaf with the irresistible taste of a juicy cheeseburger. With the addition of sharp cheddar cheese, both inside and melted on top, this meatloaf is sure to be a hit for the entire family. It's not just about adding cheese though—the use of Worcestershire sauce and smoked paprika gives the dish that classic burger flavor, while the tangy ketchup-based glaze brings the perfect balance of sweetness and acidity.

This dish is easy to prepare and perfect for those nights when you want to serve something comforting yet exciting. Whether it's for a casual family dinner or a get-together with friends, the Cheddar Cheeseburger Meatloaf promises to be a conversation starter and a crowd-pleaser.

Recipe: Cheddar Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• Cheddar cheese slices for topping
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Make sure the mixture is well blended for an even distribution of flavors.
3. Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, ensuring it is evenly spread throughout the meat mixture.
4. Shape the meat mixture into a loaf form and place it on a greased baking sheet or in a loaf pan.
5. In a small bowl, mix the ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar to create a tangy glaze.
6. Spread the glaze generously over the top of the meatloaf.
7. Bake the meatloaf in the oven for 45 minutes. Then, add slices of cheddar cheese on top of the loaf and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
8. Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
9. Let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Cheesy Perfection in Every Bite

This Cheddar Cheeseburger Meatloaf is the definition of comfort food at its finest. The rich, savory flavor of the ground beef is enhanced by the sharp cheddar, while the tangy ketchup glaze adds a delicious sweet-and-sour contrast. Whether served with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or even a side salad, this meatloaf is sure to become a family favorite.

The best part? It's just as good the next day. Leftovers make for fantastic sandwiches, reheating beautifully while retaining all of that cheeseburger-inspired flavor. So next time you're craving something hearty and satisfying, why not ditch the traditional meatloaf and give this cheesy, flavorful version a try? Your taste buds will thank you.

To make a fantastic Cheddar Cheeseburger Meatloaf, a few tips can help elevate your dish. You want to aim for a balance of flavor and texture by using ground beef with an 85/15 fat ratio, which gives you juicy meat without it becoming too greasy​(Insanely Good Recipes). Mixing in shredded cheddar throughout the loaf ensures gooey, cheesy bites in every slice, while the ketchup-based glaze adds a delightful tang​(Budget Bytes)​(Dinner at the Zoo).

For a bit of variation, you can even try adding extra burger toppings, such as chopped pickles, to the meat mixture for that true cheeseburger taste​(Budget Bytes). Baking on a sheet tray instead of a loaf pan can also provide better even cooking and allow grease to drain more effectively​(Insanely Good Recipes). Remember to let the meatloaf rest after cooking to keep it moist and allow the flavors to meld.