Bbq Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe

Craving a juicy bacon cheeseburger but want to try something a little different? Then, you’re going to love this BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf! This recipe combines all the classic burger flavors you love—beef, cheese, bacon, and barbecue sauce—into a hearty, comfort-food dish that’s sure to be a hit with the whole family. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or just cooking for a cozy night in, this meatloaf is guaranteed to become a regular on your dinner table. Keep reading for the full recipe, cooking tips, and more!

this Recipe

What is BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf?

BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is a creative twist on traditional meatloaf, incorporating the rich flavors of a cheeseburger into one delicious, hearty dish. Instead of making individual patties, you combine ground beef with bacon, cheese, breadcrumbs, and seasonings, and top it off with barbecue sauce. The result is a flavorful, moist meatloaf that tastes just like a cheeseburger straight off the grill, but with the added depth of smoky BBQ flavor baked right in.

Ingredients List for BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Here's what you'll need to make this savory, comforting dish:

• 1 ½ lbs of ground beef (preferably 80/20 for the best flavor and moisture)
• 8 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese blend)
• ½ cup of barbecue sauce (plus extra for glazing)
• 1 cup of breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• 1 large egg
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon of yellow mustard
• 1 tablespoon of ketchup
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika (optional for extra smokiness)

Substitutions and Variations

Customizing your BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf to fit your preferences or dietary needs is easy! Here are some suggestions:

• Meat options: If you prefer a leaner meat, you can use ground turkey or ground chicken instead of beef. Keep in mind that turkey and chicken are drier, so consider adding an extra tablespoon of olive oil or another egg to ensure it stays moist.
• Cheese options: While cheddar is a classic choice for cheeseburgers, you can mix things up by using pepper jack for a little heat, gouda for a smoky touch, or mozzarella for a creamier texture.
• Low-carb alternative: If you're watching your carbs, swap out the breadcrumbs for crushed pork rinds or almond flour.
• BBQ sauce: Use a sugar-free barbecue sauce if you're aiming to cut back on sugar, or opt for a spicy version to add some heat.
• Add-ins: You can add diced pickles, jalapeños, or mushrooms into the meat mixture for added flavor and texture.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is easier than you think. Follow these steps to achieve perfection:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking sheet or loaf pan by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it.
2. Cook the bacon: Fry the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the pan, crumble it, and set it aside.
3. Sauté the onions and garlic: In the same skillet (with some of the bacon grease left over), sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Set aside to cool slightly.
4. Mix the meatloaf base: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, sautéed onion and garlic, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, ketchup, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (if using). Mix everything together gently with your hands or a spatula until just combined. Don’t overmix to avoid a dense meatloaf.
5. Shape the meatloaf: Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking sheet or loaf pan. Shape it into a loaf, pressing down gently to make sure it’s compact.
6. Glaze the top: Brush the top of the meatloaf with barbecue sauce, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
7. Bake the meatloaf: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for about 45-55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Halfway through baking, you can brush on additional barbecue sauce for an extra-glazed finish.
8. Rest and serve: Once done, remove the meatloaf from the oven and allow it to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring a moist meatloaf.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this recipe is simple, there are a few common mistakes you’ll want to avoid:

• Overmixing the meat: Overmixing can make the meatloaf dense and tough. Mix the ingredients just until they come together.
• Skipping the rest time: Cutting into the meatloaf immediately after baking will cause the juices to spill out, resulting in a drier texture. Let it rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing.
• Not using enough seasoning: Meatloaf can be bland if under-seasoned. Be sure to add enough salt, pepper, and any extra seasonings you enjoy.
• Overcooking: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Overcooked meatloaf can turn out dry, so keep an eye on the internal temperature.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Serving your BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is as important as making it taste great. Here are a few tips to make sure it looks just as good as it tastes:

• Garnish with fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or green onions on top can add a nice pop of color and freshness to the dish.
• Serve with classic burger sides: For a true cheeseburger experience, serve the meatloaf with sides like crispy French fries, sweet potato fries, coleslaw, or even a pickle spear.
• Drizzle with extra BBQ sauce: Provide a small dish of warmed barbecue sauce on the side for dipping or drizzling.

How to Serve BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

This meatloaf is incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways:

• Traditional slices: Slice the meatloaf like you would a regular loaf and serve it on a plate with your favorite sides.
• Meatloaf sandwiches: Slice the meatloaf thinly and place it between two slices of toasted bread or in a soft burger bun for an amazing sandwich. Top with additional cheese, pickles, or onions for that classic burger feel.
• Meatloaf bites: For a fun appetizer, cut the meatloaf into bite-sized squares and serve them with toothpicks and a side of BBQ dipping sauce.

Presentation Ideas for BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Presentation can elevate your dish and make it even more appealing. Here are some creative ideas:

• Serve on a wooden board: Place the meatloaf on a rustic wooden cutting board and serve it family-style. This adds a casual, down-home touch that fits the comfort food theme.
• Stacked layers: If you're making meatloaf sandwiches, you can stack them high with layers of lettuce, tomato, pickles, and even onion rings for a gourmet burger look.
• Garnish with crispy bacon strips: Lay a few extra strips of crispy bacon across the top of the meatloaf for an eye-catching garnish.

BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe Tips

To make sure your meatloaf is a hit every time, here are some helpful tips:

• Use fresh breadcrumbs: Fresh breadcrumbs absorb moisture better than store-bought ones, making your meatloaf more tender.
• Cheese stuffing: For an extra cheesy experience, add a layer of cheese in the middle of the meatloaf. Simply divide the meat mixture in half, place one half in the loaf pan, sprinkle the center with extra cheese, and then top with the remaining mixture.
• Make ahead: You can prepare the meatloaf mixture in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I freeze BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf?
Yes! You can freeze the uncooked meatloaf by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and placing it in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to cook, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as directed. You can also freeze cooked meatloaf by slicing it and freezing the slices individually for easy meals.

Can I use pre-cooked bacon?
Absolutely. If you're short on time, pre-cooked bacon will work just fine. Just make sure it’s crispy enough to crumble into the meat mixture.

Can I make this meatloaf in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make this meatloaf in a slow cooker. Shape the meatloaf as usual and cook it on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

Conclusion

BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is the perfect recipe for anyone looking to enjoy the flavors of a cheeseburger in a comforting, hearty form. With the smoky sweetness of barbecue sauce, crispy bacon, and gooey cheese, it’s a dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Try it out at your next family dinner or gathering, and watch it disappear in no time! Enjoy this tasty twist on classic meatloaf, and don’t forget to serve it with your favorite sides for the ultimate meal.

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