This Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is a fun twist on a classic dish! It’s packed with juicy ground beef, crispy bacon, and cheesy goodness that everyone will love.
Who knew meatloaf could be so exciting? I like to serve it with a side of mashed potatoes—after all, you can’t go wrong with meat and comfort food! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using a blend with some fat, like 80/20, for juiciness. If you prefer something leaner, ground turkey works too, though it might be a bit drier.
Breadcrumbs: Plain or seasoned breadcrumbs both work well. You can substitute with crushed crackers or even oats for a healthier option!
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds great flavor! For a change, you can use pepper jack for a bit of spice or even mozzarella for a milder taste.
Bacon: Cooked bacon brings wonderful flavor! If you want a healthier alternative, turkey bacon is a good choice; just ensure it’s crispy enough.
Ketchup: While ketchup is classic for this dish, you can use BBQ sauce for a smokier touch. You can also mix in some Sriracha for a spicy kick!
How Do I Ensure My Meatloaf Holds Together?
To keep your meatloaf from crumbling, the right mix of ingredients and technique is key. Make sure to incorporate the ingredients gently but thoroughly to avoid overmixing.
- Use breadcrumbs to bind the meat. They absorb moisture and help hold it together.
- The egg is crucial! It acts as a binder, so don’t skip it.
- After mixing, shape the loaf into a snug, even shape in the pan. This helps it cook evenly.
- Let it rest before slicing; this allows the juices to redistribute.
How to Make Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Meatloaf Mixture:
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup cooked bacon, chopped
- ¼ cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon mustard (optional)
For Topping:
- ¼ cup yellow mustard (for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This bacon cheeseburger meatloaf will take around 15 minutes to prepare and about 60-75 minutes to bake. After baking, let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. In total, you’ll be ready to enjoy this dish in about 1 hour and 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, your oven will be ready when it’s time to bake the meatloaf!
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped bacon, ketchup, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and mustard (if using). Using your hands or a spoon, mix everything together until well blended. Make sure all the ingredients are evenly combined for the best flavor!
3. Shape the Meatloaf:
Now it’s time to transfer your mixture to a loaf pan. Shape it into a loaf inside the pan, pressing down gently to ensure it holds together. Don’t worry if it looks a little rustic; it will be delicious!
4. Add the Topping:
Spread a generous amount of additional ketchup on top of the meatloaf. This gives it a lovely glaze and adds even more flavor.
5. Bake the Meatloaf:
Carefully place the loaf pan in your preheated oven. Bake for 60 to 75 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) and is nicely browned on the outside.
6. Rest and Serve:
Once baked, take the meatloaf out of the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This helps it slice better. After resting, slice the meatloaf into pieces. For an extra kick, drizzle some yellow mustard on each slice before serving.
7. Enjoy!
Now, dig in and enjoy your delicious bacon cheeseburger meatloaf with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes or a fresh salad!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Yes! Ground turkey is a leaner option and can be used in place of ground beef. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as ground turkey may require a few extra minutes to reach the safe internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).
How Do I Store Leftover Meatloaf?
Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw and warm in the oven or microwave, and add a little ketchup or mustard to keep it moist!
Can I Add More Cheese or Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to add more cheddar cheese or even try variations like mozzarella or pepper jack for a bit of spice. Just keep in mind that too much cheese may affect the texture, so aim for 3/4 cup to maintain the right consistency.
What Sides Pair Well With Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf?
Classic sides include mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad. You could also serve it with French fries or coleslaw for a true burger vibe!
