If you love juicy cheeseburgers and crave hearty meatloaf, this Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is the perfect dish for you. It combines the smoky goodness of crispy bacon, the melty richness of sharp cheddar cheese, and the bold flavors of a classic burger, all packed into one moist, tender meatloaf. Topped with a sweet and tangy glaze, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite for weeknight dinners and special gatherings alike.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Burger-Inspired Flavor: Every bite bursts with the taste of a classic bacon cheeseburger, with ingredients like mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and cheddar cheese.
Juicy & Moist Texture: The combination of eggs, breadcrumbs, and ketchup ensures a tender, never-dry meatloaf.
Irresistible Topping: A sweet and tangy glaze made with ketchup, mustard, and brown sugar creates the perfect finishing touch.
Easy & Foolproof: Simple steps and common pantry ingredients make this a no-fuss meal for any night of the week.
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Ingredients & Their Roles
For the Meatloaf:
1 ½ lbs. Ground Beef – Use 80/20 ground beef for the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness.
8 slices Bacon, cooked and crumbled – Adds a smoky, savory crunch to the meatloaf.
1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese, shredded – Melts beautifully into the meat, adding a rich, cheesy bite.
½ cup Breadcrumbs – Helps bind the ingredients and keep the meatloaf moist.
¼ cup Ketchup – Provides sweetness and tang while keeping the meatloaf tender.
¼ cup Mustard – Enhances the burger-like flavor with its tangy kick.
2 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce – Deepens the umami richness of the meat.
1 Onion, finely chopped – Adds natural sweetness and moisture.
2 cloves Garlic, minced – Infuses the dish with bold, aromatic flavor.
2 Eggs, beaten – Acts as a binder to hold everything together.
Salt and Pepper, to taste – Enhances all the flavors in the dish.
For the Glaze:
½ cup Ketchup – The base of the glaze, providing a sweet and tangy layer.
1 tbsp Mustard – Adds a classic burger-like zing.
2 tbsp Brown Sugar – Balances the tartness with a subtle caramelized sweetness.
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Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a loaf pan to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
Ground beef
Cooked, crumbled bacon
Shredded cheddar cheese
Breadcrumbs
Ketchup and mustard
Worcestershire sauce
Finely chopped onion and minced garlic
Beaten eggs
Salt and pepper
Using clean hands or a wooden spoon, mix until everything is evenly incorporated. Be careful not to overwork the meat, as this can lead to a dense, tough texture.
3. Shape and Transfer to Loaf Pan
Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in the greased loaf pan (or shape it freeform on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper).
4. Prepare the Topping
In a small bowl, mix:
Ketchup
Mustard
Brown sugar
Stir until smooth, then spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
5. Bake to Perfection
Place in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
6. Let It Rest Before Slicing
Once done, remove from the oven and let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring every bite is moist and flavorful.
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Pro Tips for the Best Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf
Use fresh breadcrumbs instead of dry for a softer texture.
Grate the onion finely to prevent large chunks and distribute flavor evenly.
Mix gently! Overmixing makes meatloaf tough.
Bake on a wire rack over a baking sheet if you want extra caramelization on the sides.
Double the glaze if you love a sticky, saucy top.
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What to Serve with Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf
Make it a complete meal with these delicious pairings:
Creamy Mashed Potatoes – Classic comfort food to soak up the sauce.
Garlic Butter Green Beans – A light and fresh contrast to the richness.
Crispy Onion Rings – Sticking to the burger theme for extra crunch.
Coleslaw – A refreshing, tangy side that balances the dish.
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Final Thoughts – Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
This Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is the ultimate mashup of two beloved comfort foods. It’s juicy, flavorful, and packed with cheesy, smoky goodness, making it an instant hit at the dinner table. Whether you're cooking for family, meal prepping, or serving guests, this dish is a guaranteed
crowd-pleaser.
Make it tonight and watch it disappear! Don’t forget to leave a comment below and let us know how it turned out for you. Happy cooking!
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