Quick and Easy Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe for Busy Nights

A Delicious Twist on a Classic Comfort Food

If you’re craving the flavors of a bacon cheeseburger but want something hearty and comforting, this Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is the perfect dish. It combines juicy ground beef, crispy bacon, melted cheese, and a savory glaze to create a meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe requires minimal prep and delivers maximum flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy – Simple ingredients and straightforward preparation make this a great weeknight meal.
• Family-friendly – Kids and adults alike will love the classic cheeseburger flavors.
• Great for leftovers – The meatloaf reheats beautifully, making it an excellent choice for meal prep.
• Customizable – Swap out the cheese, add toppings, or adjust seasonings to suit your taste.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (80/20 recommended)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 6 slices cooked and crumbled bacon
• 1/2 cup diced onions (optional)
• 1/2 cup diced pickles (optional)

For the Glaze:

• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon mustard
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the meat mixture – In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, shredded cheese, breadcrumbs, milk, ketchup, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Incorporate the bacon – Gently fold in the crumbled bacon, diced onions, and pickles if using.
4. Shape the loaf – Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared loaf pan or shape it into a free-form loaf on the baking sheet.
5. Prepare the glaze – In a small bowl, mix ketchup, mustard, and brown sugar. Spread evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
7. Rest and serve – Allow the meatloaf to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a side salad.

Variations and Substitutions

• Cheese options – Swap cheddar for pepper jack, Swiss, or mozzarella.
• Meat blend – Try using a mix of ground beef and ground pork for extra juiciness.
• Low-carb version – Use crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs.
• Spicy kick – Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
• Topping twist – Sprinkle crispy fried onions on top before baking.

Serving Size and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
• Total Time: 55-60 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep my meatloaf from falling apart?

Use enough binding ingredients like breadcrumbs and eggs to hold the meatloaf together.

Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble it ahead and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works well, but consider adding a little extra seasoning and moisture.

What sides go well with this meatloaf?

Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, coleslaw, or a side of mac and cheese are great options.

Can I cook this in an air fryer?

Yes! Shape a smaller loaf and air fry at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes.

How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?

Crushed crackers, oats, or almond flour are good substitutes.

Can I add more toppings inside the meatloaf?

Yes, try layering cheese, cooked mushrooms, or jalapeños inside before shaping the loaf.

How do I prevent my meatloaf from being dry?

Don’t overmix the meat, and be sure to include enough moisture from milk, eggs, and ketchup.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, but you may need to adjust the baking time accordingly.

Conclusion

This Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is a fantastic way to enjoy all the flavors of a cheeseburger in a comforting and hearty dish. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight or meal prepping for the week, this easy recipe is sure to be a hit with the whole family!

Print