Experience the ultimate comfort food fusion with this Cheeseburger Meatloaf. Combining the hearty satisfaction of traditional meatloaf with the indulgent flavors of a bacon cheeseburger, this dish is a surefire hit for any dinner table.
Juicy ground beef is mixed with savory seasonings, layered with sharp cheddar cheese and crispy bacon, then baked to perfection with a tangy ketchup glaze. Whether you’re serving it up for a family meal or impressing guests, this recipe delivers mouthwatering flavor in every bite.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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2 pounds ground beef
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1 cup breadcrumbs
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¼ cup ketchup, plus more for glazing
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2 tablespoons mustard
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1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
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½ cup finely chopped onion
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2 large eggs, beaten
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Salt and pepper to taste
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
Directions:
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a loaf pan with parchment paper.
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In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, chopped onion, beaten eggs, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
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Press half of the meat mixture into the bottom of the prepared loaf pan, forming an even layer.
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Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon evenly over the meat layer.
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Top with the remaining meat mixture, pressing gently to seal the edges and encase the cheese and bacon filling.
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Brush the top with additional ketchup to glaze.
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Bake for 60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
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Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 60 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Cheeseburger Meatloaf – The Ultimate Comfort Food Fusion
Few dishes capture the heart of American comfort food quite like meatloaf and cheeseburgers. So, what happens when you combine these two iconic meals into one irresistible dish? You get the ultimate hybrid: Cheeseburger Meatloaf. This recipe takes all the savory, cheesy, and nostalgic elements of a classic cheeseburger and folds them into the warm, hearty embrace of a traditional meatloaf. The result is a family-friendly, satisfying meal that delivers the best of both worlds in every slice.
A Delicious Twist on Tradition
Traditional meatloaf has long been a staple on American dinner tables, particularly for weeknight meals and gatherings where comfort is key. It’s affordable, easy to prepare, and typically made with pantry staples. But this cheeseburger version steps up the flavor profile with the addition of cheddar cheese and crispy bacon—two ingredients that instantly elevate any dish. By incorporating mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and ketchup right into the mix, this meatloaf is infused with the tangy, umami-rich flavors reminiscent of a backyard burger, all without the bun.
Why This Cheeseburger Meatloaf Stands Out
This isn’t your average meatloaf. What makes this version truly special is the hidden layer of gooey cheddar cheese and bacon nestled between two layers of seasoned beef. As the loaf bakes, the cheese melts and melds with the savory juices of the meat, creating a rich and indulgent center that surprises you with every bite.
The ketchup glaze on top caramelizes beautifully in the oven, providing a slightly sweet and tangy contrast to the savory interior. This finishing touch adds not only flavor but also a glossy, appetizing appearance that makes this dish as visually appealing as it is delicious.
Another benefit? It slices like a dream and holds its shape well, making it great for meal prepping or next-day sandwiches.
Family-Friendly and Kid-Approved
If you’ve struggled to get picky eaters to enjoy meatloaf, this is the recipe to try. The cheeseburger twist gives it a fun and familiar flavor profile that kids and adults alike love. The cheesiness and slight sweetness from the ketchup glaze often win over even the most skeptical eaters. Pair it with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a side salad for a balanced and comforting meal.
Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor
Despite how impressive it looks and tastes, this recipe uses humble, everyday ingredients. Ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, onion, and spices form the base, while bacon and cheese transform it into something extraordinary. It’s proof that you don’t need expensive cuts of meat or complex techniques to make a meal that feels indulgent and special.
Better yet, it’s highly adaptable. Don’t eat pork? Swap the bacon for turkey bacon or omit it entirely. Want to go low-carb? Use crushed pork rinds or almond flour in place of breadcrumbs. You can even sneak in finely chopped veggies like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for a nutrition boost without compromising flavor.
Perfect for Weeknight Meals or Weekend Entertaining
This dish is versatile enough for a casual Tuesday dinner but impressive enough to serve to guests on the weekend. It comes together with minimal prep and bakes in about an hour, giving you time to prepare sides or simply relax while your kitchen fills with the mouthwatering aroma of baking meat and melting cheese.
Serve it straight from the oven or reheat slices throughout the week—it holds up well in the fridge and freezer, making it a fantastic make-ahead option. The leftovers are particularly delicious in sandwiches or served over toasted buns like a sloppy joe.
Nutritional Benefits and Customization Options
While it may seem indulgent, cheeseburger meatloaf can fit into many balanced diets. It’s packed with protein from the beef and cheese, and you can easily control the fat content by choosing lean ground beef or blending with ground turkey or chicken. Using whole-grain or gluten-free breadcrumbs allows you to tailor the recipe to dietary needs, while the addition of onions and other vegetables provides fiber and vitamins.
You can also customize the level of spice by adding chili flakes or a touch of hot sauce, or make it more savory with caramelized onions and garlic. This recipe invites experimentation and adapts to your preferences—one of the key reasons it’s become a go-to dish for so many home cooks.
A Nostalgic Meal with a Modern Edge
In today’s culinary world, where fusion recipes are celebrated, cheeseburger meatloaf strikes the perfect balance between old-school comfort and creative innovation. It draws on the nostalgic flavors of diner-style cheeseburgers but wraps them in the homey, heartwarming familiarity of meatloaf. That’s why it’s so universally appealing.
Whether you’re making dinner for your family, hosting a weekend gathering, or just looking for a way to switch up your usual rotation, this cheeseburger meatloaf is a surefire winner. It’s comforting, crowd-pleasing, and deeply satisfying—everything a great meal should be.
Conclusion
Cheeseburger meatloaf isn’t just a clever twist on two American classics—it’s a dish that brings people together. It warms your kitchen, delights your taste buds, and fills your table with joy and comfort. With its cheesy core, crispy bacon, savory beef, and that irresistible ketchup glaze, it delivers bold flavor in every bite. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is easy to master and even easier to love.
So the next time you’re craving something hearty, nostalgic, and just a little bit indulgent, skip the fast food and head to your own oven. Your new favorite meatloaf is waiting.