Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe

There's nothing quite like the comforting flavors of a bacon cheeseburger, but what if you could enjoy all that goodness in a sliceable, juicy meatloaf? This Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is packed with rich, beefy flavor, gooey melted cheese, and crispy bacon, making it an instant family favorite.

this Recipe

I first made this recipe on a whim when I had extra ground beef but didn’t feel like making burgers. The result? A mouthwatering meatloaf that’s become a regular request in our house! If you’re looking for a fun twist on classic meatloaf, this recipe is a must-try.

Why You'll Love This Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Get ready to fall in love with this juicy, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying dinner. Whether you're feeding a hungry family or just craving some serious comfort food, this recipe delivers in every bite.

First, it’s incredibly flavor-packed. With crispy bacon, melted cheddar, and a tangy burger-inspired sauce, every slice tastes just like your favorite cheeseburger—without the bun!

It’s also super easy to make. You don’t have to worry about forming patties or standing over a grill. Just mix, shape, and bake!

Another huge plus? Leftovers are amazing. This meatloaf tastes just as delicious the next day, making it perfect for meal prep. It even works great in sandwiches for a next-level lunch option.

And let’s not forget—it’s a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re making dinner for picky eaters or hosting a casual get-together, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf comes from its simple, yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each one plays an important role in creating the perfect combination of flavors.

Ground beef is the foundation of this recipe. I recommend using 80/20 ground beef, which has just the right balance of fat to keep the meatloaf juicy without being greasy.

Cheddar cheese is the perfect cheesy addition. Sharp cheddar adds bold flavor, but mild or medium cheddar works great, too. Be sure to use freshly shredded cheese for the best melt!

Bacon brings that smoky, crispy goodness that makes a cheeseburger so irresistible. Cook it until it’s just crispy before crumbling it into the meat mixture.

Breadcrumbs and eggs help bind everything together. I prefer panko breadcrumbs for a lighter texture, but regular breadcrumbs work fine, too.

Ketchup and mustard create that classic burger-like tang. You’ll mix some into the meatloaf and use extra for a flavorful glaze on top.

If you have one, a meat thermometer is helpful to ensure your meatloaf reaches the perfect internal temperature without overcooking.

How To Make This Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Making this Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is simple, and the results are absolutely delicious. Here’s how to do it step by step.

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. You can also use a loaf pan, but baking it free-form gives you a crispier crust.

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, eggs, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to gently mix everything together—be careful not to overwork the meat, or the meatloaf could turn out dense.

Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it on the prepared baking sheet. If you prefer, you can place it in a loaf pan for a more traditional shape.

In a small bowl, mix extra ketchup, mustard, and a bit of brown sugar to create a sweet and tangy glaze. Spread it evenly over the top of the meatloaf before baking.

Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F. Let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing—this helps keep it juicy and prevents it from falling apart.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (which is rare in my house!), this Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf stores beautifully.

To refrigerate, place slices in an airtight container and store for up to 4 days.

To freeze, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

For reheating, warm slices in the oven at 325°F for about 10-15 minutes or microwave them in 30-second intervals until heated through. Adding a little extra cheese on top makes it even better!

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how customizable it is! Here are some fun ways to switch it up.

Want an extra cheesy center? Stuff the meatloaf with cheese cubes before baking for a gooey surprise inside.

Prefer a leaner option? Use a mix of ground turkey and beef for a lighter version that still has great flavor.

Love a little heat? Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture for a spicy kick.

For a BBQ twist, swap the ketchup glaze for your favorite barbecue sauce. It adds a smoky-sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with the bacon.

And if you’re looking for a low-carb version, replace the breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour to keep it keto-friendly.

No matter how you customize it, this Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is a guaranteed winner. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised when your family asks for it again and again!

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