There's nothing quite like the comfort of a hearty Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf. Imagine the juicy, savory flavors of your favorite cheeseburger, paired with the cozy nostalgia of a homemade meatloaf. Topped with crispy bacon and oozing with melted cheese, this recipe is sure to be a family favorite.

I first whipped up this dish as a creative twist on classic meatloaf, trying to capture the flavors of a backyard barbecue during a chilly winter evening. The result? A crowd-pleaser that hits all the right notes: smoky, cheesy, and utterly delicious.

Let’s dive into what makes this dish so special and how you can make it your new go-to dinner recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Get ready to meet your new favorite dinner recipe. Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf combines the best of two classics into one irresistible dish.

First, this meatloaf is packed with flavor. With a combination of ground beef, cheddar cheese, and a secret blend of seasonings, every bite is bursting with cheeseburger goodness. And let’s not forget the crispy bacon on top—it’s the perfect finishing touch.

Second, it’s a breeze to make. Even though it looks and tastes impressive, this recipe comes together quickly and easily, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Best of all, it’s family-friendly and endlessly customizable. Whether you add your favorite burger toppings or keep it classic, there’s something for everyone to love. Plus, it’s just as delicious the next day—if there are any leftovers!

Ready to get started? Let’s take a look at what you’ll need.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf lies in its simple, flavorful ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need and why each one is important:

Ground beef: The heart of the recipe. Use 80/20 ground beef for the perfect balance of flavor and moisture. If you prefer, you can mix in some ground pork for added richness.
Cheddar cheese: Adds that classic cheeseburger flavor. Shred it fresh for the best melt, but pre-shredded cheese works too.
Bacon: The smoky, salty highlight of the dish. Lay it on top for a crispy crust, or chop it and mix it in for extra bacon flavor throughout.
Breadcrumbs: Acts as the binder, keeping your meatloaf moist and tender. Panko breadcrumbs or regular will work well.
Ketchup and mustard: A nod to classic burger toppings, these condiments infuse the meatloaf with tangy, slightly sweet flavor.
Pickles: Optional but highly recommended. Dice a few dill pickles for a surprising burst of flavor in every bite.
Onion and garlic: These aromatic staples add depth and round out the dish. Sauté them before mixing to bring out their sweetness.

Special equipment: A loaf pan or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper will help the meatloaf cook evenly and keep cleanup easy.

How To Make This Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Creating this delicious dish is simpler than you think. Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a show-stopping meal ready in no time.

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Start by dicing your onion and mincing the garlic. If you’re using pickles, dice them into small pieces. Shred your cheese and set it aside.

Step 2: Make the Meatloaf Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, ketchup, mustard, egg, cheddar cheese, onion, garlic, and pickles. Season with salt and pepper, and mix gently with your hands until everything is evenly incorporated. Be careful not to overmix—this can make the meatloaf tough.

Step 3: Shape and Top

Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it on a lined baking sheet or in a loaf pan. Lay the strips of bacon across the top, slightly overlapping them for full coverage. Tuck the ends underneath the loaf.

Step 4: Bake and Add Cheese

Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). During the last 10 minutes, sprinkle a little more shredded cheddar on top and return it to the oven to melt.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Once cooked, let the meatloaf rest for 5-10 minutes to make slicing easier. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve with a side of ketchup or your favorite burger sauce.

Total time: Just over an hour, including prep and cooking. It’s well worth the wait!

Storage Options

Leftovers of this Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf are almost as exciting as the first bite. Here’s how to store it for maximum freshness:

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Warm leftovers in the oven at 325°F (165°C) until heated through, or microwave slices for a quick option.

Variations and Substitutions

The versatility of this recipe is one of its biggest strengths. Here are some fun ways to switch it up:

Make it spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the mixture for a kick.
Low-carb option: Swap breadcrumbs for almond flour or crushed pork rinds.
Turkey or chicken: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter alternative.
Stuff it: Add a layer of cheese in the center of the loaf for a gooey surprise.
Burger toppings: Serve slices with lettuce, tomato, and even a dollop of mayo for the full burger experience.

No matter how you make it, this meatloaf is destined to be a hit!

Take your dinner game to the next level with this Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf. It’s easy to prepare, loaded with flavor, and perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing guests. Give it a try tonight—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!