Oh my goodness, let me tell you about the magic of bacon cheeseburger meatloaf! This dish is like a cozy hug on a plate, combining the savory goodness of ground beef, crispy bacon, and melty cheddar cheese into a deliciously rich meatloaf. I remember the first time I made it for a family gathering; everyone was raving about it! It’s such a crowd-pleaser, perfect for those chilly nights when you want something hearty and comforting. Trust me, the blend of flavors in this meatloaf is simply irresistible. You’ll want to have a big slice topped with extra ketchup, maybe alongside some creamy mashed potatoes or a fresh side salad. It’s the ultimate family dinner that feels like a special occasion every time!

bacon cheeseburger meatloaf - detail 1

Ingredients List

2 pounds ground beef (use a mix of lean and fatty for the best flavor)
1 cup cooked bacon, chopped (I love using thick-cut bacon for extra crunch!)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar adds a nice kick)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (these help bind everything together)
1/2 cup onion, finely chopped (adds sweetness and depth)
2 cloves garlic, minced (because garlic makes everything better!)
1/4 cup ketchup (for that classic burger flavor)
2 large eggs (these hold it all together)
1 teaspoon salt (don’t skimp on seasoning!)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper (to taste, of course)

How to Prepare Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Alright, let’s get cooking! First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, it’s nice and hot when your meatloaf is ready to go in. Now, grab a large mixing bowl—trust me, you’ll need it for all that deliciousness!

Step-by-Step Instructions

In the mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped bacon, and shredded cheddar cheese. I like to use my hands for this part; it’s the best way to really mix everything together and feel that excitement building!
Add in the breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, ketchup, eggs, salt, and black pepper. Mix until everything is well combined. Don’t be shy—get in there and really blend those flavors!
Once it’s all mixed, transfer your meaty masterpiece into a loaf pan. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to shape it into a nice loaf. It doesn’t have to be perfect, but a good shape helps it cook evenly.
Pop that loaf in the oven and bake for about 1 hour. You’ll know it’s done when the internal temperature hits 160°F (70°C). Grab a meat thermometer if you have one—it’s a handy tool!
After baking, let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This is crucial! It helps the juices redistribute, so you get that perfect, juicy bite every time.

And there you have it! A beautiful bacon cheeseburger meatloaf ready to be devoured. I can already smell it wafting through the kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It’s a hearty, comforting dish that combines all your favorite burger flavors in one delicious meatloaf.
Super easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
Each slice is packed with savory bacon and melty cheese, guaranteeing smiles all around the dinner table.
Leftovers (if there are any!) make for amazing sandwiches the next day.
This recipe is gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy a slice of the goodness!

Tips for Success

To make sure your bacon cheeseburger meatloaf turns out perfectly every time, here are my go-to tips! First, don’t skip the breadcrumbs—they’re essential for holding everything together without making it too dense. If you want to spice things up, feel free to add your favorite seasonings or even some diced jalapeños for a kick! Also, make sure to use a mix of ground beef; a little fat adds flavor and moisture. And remember, let it rest after baking—this step is key for juicy slices! Trust me, these little tweaks will elevate your meatloaf game!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to bacon cheeseburger meatloaf, you can enjoy a hearty slice without too much guilt! Each serving typically contains about 400 calories, with 28 grams of fat and a satisfying 30 grams of protein. You’ll also find around 10 grams of carbohydrates and 3 grams of sugar per slice. Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary depending on the specific ingredients you use. But hey, it’s comfort food at its best!

FAQ Section

Common Questions About Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Got questions? I’ve got answers! One common query is, “Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?” Absolutely! Just remember that turkey tends to be a bit drier, so you might want to add a splash of broth or an extra egg for moisture. Another frequent question is, “What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?” You can substitute with crushed crackers or even oats if you’re in a pinch. And for storage, this meatloaf is a dream! Just wrap it tightly and it’ll last in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, a quick reheating in the oven or microwave will do the trick. Lastly, if you want to freeze it, go ahead! Just slice it first, and you’ll have ready-to-go meals for busy nights. Enjoy experimenting with this delicious recipe!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your bacon cheeseburger meatloaf is super simple! Just wrap any leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and pop them in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic, which is perfect for quick meals later on!

When it’s time to reheat, you can either use the microwave for a quick fix or pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. Just make sure to cover it with foil to prevent it from drying out. Enjoy those cozy, comforting bites all over again!

Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf: 5 Irresistibly Tasty Tips

Author: Julia marin
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

A delicious meatloaf made with ground beef, bacon, and cheese.

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, bacon, cheese, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, ketchup, eggs, salt, and pepper.
Mix until well combined.
Transfer the mixture into a loaf pan.
Bake for 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.