There's nothing like a hearty Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf to bring comfort and joy to the dinner table. This dish combines all the flavors of a classic bacon cheeseburger – smoky bacon, melty cheese, and savory beef – into one irresistible loaf. It's the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners or potluck gatherings.

I first made this recipe on a whim, inspired by my kids' love for cheeseburgers and my craving for a cozy meal. To my surprise, it became an instant favorite, earning a spot on our regular dinner rotation. Let's dive in and see what makes this dish so special!

Why You'll Love This Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Get ready to fall in love with a new twist on meatloaf. This Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf takes everything you love about a juicy burger and turns it into a comforting baked masterpiece.

First, it’s packed with flavor. Ground beef is seasoned with a blend of spices, mixed with cheddar cheese, and wrapped in crispy bacon for a smoky, savory finish. Each bite is a flavor explosion that satisfies like nothing else.

Second, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can create a show-stopping dish that looks and tastes like it took hours to prepare.

It’s also a great make-ahead option. You can prep the meatloaf the night before and bake it fresh when ready, making it perfect for busy weeknights or hosting guests.

Finally, it’s versatile. Pair it with mashed potatoes, a crisp green salad, or even macaroni and cheese for a meal that’s customizable to your cravings.

Once you try it, you’ll see why this recipe is destined to become a family favorite.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf lies in its well-chosen ingredients. Each one contributes to the bold, comforting flavors that make this dish a standout.

Ground Beef: Choose 80/20 ground beef for the perfect balance of flavor and moisture. Leaner beef may result in a dryer meatloaf, so avoid anything below 85/15 if possible.

Cheddar Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar is my go-to, as it adds a rich, tangy flavor that complements the beef and bacon perfectly. You can also experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gouda for a different twist.

Bacon: Use thin-cut bacon for easy wrapping and optimal crispiness. The bacon not only enhances the flavor but also keeps the meatloaf moist as it cooks.

Breadcrumbs and Eggs: These essential binding ingredients give the meatloaf its structure. Panko breadcrumbs work well, but regular breadcrumbs are just as effective.

Ketchup and Mustard: These classic burger toppings are mixed into the loaf for a subtle tangy-sweet flavor that ties everything together.

Special Equipment: While not necessary, a loaf pan can help shape your meatloaf perfectly. Alternatively, you can free-form the loaf on a baking sheet for a more rustic presentation.

How To Make This Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Crafting this dish is as straightforward as making a classic burger – but with a delicious twist. Let’s break it down step by step:

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats, prepare your meat mixture. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, shredded cheddar, breadcrumbs, ketchup, mustard, a beaten egg, and your preferred seasonings (like garlic powder, onion powder, and salt). Mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.

On a parchment-lined baking sheet, shape the meat mixture into a loaf. If you’re using a loaf pan, press the mixture into the pan evenly.

Next, lay strips of bacon over the top of the loaf, tucking the ends underneath. The bacon should completely cover the loaf, overlapping slightly to ensure full coverage.

Bake the meatloaf for about 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). To ensure the bacon gets crispy, you can broil the meatloaf for the last 5 minutes of cooking.

Once done, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This step is crucial for maintaining its juicy texture and preventing it from falling apart.

Storage Options

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, this Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf stores beautifully. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

For refrigeration, place the slices in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 4 days. Be sure to let the meatloaf cool completely before refrigerating to prevent condensation.

To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating is simple. For the best results, warm the slices in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through. You can also microwave them on medium power, but be cautious not to overcook, as it can dry out the meatloaf.

Variations and Substitutions

The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:

Turkey Twist: Swap out ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Adjust the seasonings to enhance the milder flavor.
Cheese Swap: Try pepper jack for a spicy kick or Swiss for a nutty twist.
BBQ Flavor: Replace ketchup with BBQ sauce in the meat mixture and drizzle more on top for a smoky, tangy finish.
Stuffed Option: Add a layer of sliced pickles or caramelized onions inside the meatloaf for a fun surprise.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to make this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

Don’t be afraid to experiment and create your own signature version of this Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf. Once you master the basics, the possibilities are endless.