Mouthwatering Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe: A Comforting Twist on a Classic Favorite

If you're a fan of juicy bacon cheeseburgers and crave that same mouthwatering experience without the hassle of grilling, you're in for a treat! This Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe takes all the classic flavors you love—crispy bacon, melted cheddar, tangy pickles—and transforms them into a hearty, comforting meatloaf that is perfect for family dinners or even a casual weekend meal.

Photo byRecipes By Lisa

I stumbled upon this recipe while browsing the Recipes by Lisa Facebook page, and I just had to share it with you. It's one of those dishes that instantly became a family favorite, combining the richness of a traditional meatloaf with the flavors of a diner-style cheeseburger. Every bite is bursting with cheesy, savory goodness, and the addition of crispy bacon on top is pure magic!

A Little Backstory

This dish came into my life when I was searching for a creative way to enjoy the flavors of a cheeseburger during the colder months when grilling just wasn’t an option. Imagine biting into a slice of tender meatloaf, oozing with melted cheese and topped with crunchy, smoky bacon. It’s not only easy to make, but it's also a fun twist on two classic comfort foods: cheeseburgers and meatloaf.

I can confidently say this is now a go-to recipe for satisfying burger cravings, especially when I want something hearty and filling. Plus, it’s so versatile! You can serve it with mashed potatoes, a green salad, or even french fries to really drive home the burger experience.

Fun Facts & Cultural Origins

Did you know meatloaf has been a beloved dish in American households since the late 19th century? Its origins can be traced back to European settlers who brought minced meat recipes with them. Over the years, American families adapted it, making it their own with regional variations. Combining this beloved American dish with the flavors of a classic cheeseburger feels like the ultimate fusion of two icons of comfort food!

Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 lbs ground beef
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1/2 cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)
• 1 tbsp mustard
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 6-8 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
• 1/4 cup chopped pickles (optional)

Directions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan or baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Meatloaf: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, beaten egg, ketchup, mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until everything is just combined, being careful not to overwork the mixture.
3. Layer with Cheese and Bacon: Press half of the meat mixture into the prepared pan. Then, evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon over the top. Finish by pressing the remaining meat mixture over the cheese and bacon layer, making sure to seal the edges.
4. Top and Bake: Spread a thin layer of ketchup on top of the meatloaf for added flavor and a nice glaze. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
5. Optional Extra Bacon: If you're a bacon lover, feel free to top the meatloaf with more crumbled bacon during the last 10 minutes of baking for that extra crunch!
6. Rest and Serve: Let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve it with pickles on the side for that authentic cheeseburger vibe.

Tips for the Perfect Meatloaf

• Don't Overmix the Meat: Overmixing can lead to a dense, tough meatloaf. Just gently combine the ingredients until they hold together.
• Customize It: Want a little spice? Add a dash of hot sauce or sprinkle some jalapeños into the meat mixture. For a gluten-free option, swap the breadcrumbs for gluten-free crumbs.
• Pairing Suggestions: Serve this meatloaf with a side of garlic mashed potatoes or roasted veggies for a comforting and satisfying meal. A crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette would also complement the rich flavors.

Did You Enjoy This Recipe?

I hope this Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe brings as much comfort and joy to your table as it has to mine! If you liked it, let me know in the comments below. Don’t forget to share it with friends and hit that follow button for more delicious recipes! 🍽️