If you’ve ever wished your favorite bacon cheeseburger could be turned into a warm, comforting dinner, this Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is exactly that dream come true.
It’s juicy, cheesy, smoky, and packed with all the flavors you love in a classic burger — but baked into a hearty, sliceable loaf that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend comfort feasts.
Imagine tender ground beef, crispy bacon, gooey cheddar cheese, and a tangy burger-style sauce baked together until golden and bubbly. It’s nostalgia, comfort, and flavor overload all in one bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- 🥓 Loaded with bacon: Crispy bits inside and on top — because more bacon = more flavor.
- 🧀 Cheesy goodness: Melted cheddar oozes through every slice.
- 🍔 Burger vibes: All your favorite cheeseburger flavors, baked into one dish.
- 👩🍳 Easy to make: Simple ingredients, big payoff.
- 🍽️ Family favorite: Comfort food perfection that even picky eaters devour.
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf
- 2 lbs (900 g) ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup cooked bacon, chopped
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Topping
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 3–4 slices cooked bacon, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a loaf pan or baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
Lightly spray with cooking spray for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, onion, cheddar cheese, chopped bacon, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Mix gently using your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined — don’t overmix or your loaf can get dense.
Step 3: Shape and Bake
Transfer the meat mixture to your prepared pan and shape into a loaf about 2 inches thick.
Bake uncovered for 35 minutes.
Step 4: Add the Burger Topping
While it bakes, mix together the topping sauce — ketchup, mustard, and brown sugar.
After 35 minutes, remove the loaf and spread this sauce evenly over the top.
Sprinkle with extra cheddar cheese and bacon bits, then return to the oven for another 15–20 minutes, until the top is golden, bubbly, and caramelized.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps each slice tender and juicy.
Serve with a drizzle of extra sauce (ketchup + mayo + a hint of pickle juice makes a perfect “burger sauce”) and enjoy that rich, smoky, cheesy flavor combo.
Tips for Success
- Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined — overworking can make the loaf tough.
- Rest before slicing: It’ll stay juicy and hold its shape better.
- Use 80/20 beef: A little fat keeps the meatloaf moist and flavorful.
- Add a little BBQ sauce for a smoky-sweet twist.
- Want it spicier? Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
Variations & Add-Ons
🍔 Stuffed Meatloaf: Add a layer of cheddar in the center before baking for extra cheesiness.
🥓 Double Bacon Version: Wrap the loaf in bacon strips before baking for crispy edges.
🧅 Caramelized Onion Burger: Stir in cooked onions for sweetness and depth.
🍞 Low-carb: Swap breadcrumbs for crushed pork rinds or almond flour.
🍅 BBQ Bacon Twist: Replace ketchup with BBQ sauce in both the mix and topping.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf with:
- Creamy mashed potatoes 🥔
- Crispy french fries or tater tots 🍟
- Green beans, corn on the cob, or a crisp garden salad 🥗
And of course — don’t forget a drizzle of your favorite burger sauce or ranch dressing for the ultimate finish.
Storage & Reheating
- Fridge: Store leftovers covered for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Warm slices in the oven at 350°F for 10–12 minutes or in the microwave for 1–2 minutes.
- Freeze: Wrap slices tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Why This Recipe Works
This Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf takes the classic comfort of traditional meatloaf and infuses it with the irresistible flavors of a bacon cheeseburger.
The bacon adds smokiness and crunch, the cheddar melts right into the beef for rich texture, and the ketchup-mustard glaze brings that nostalgic burger flavor home.
It’s hearty, juicy, and loaded with flavor — a true family-pleaser that feels both comforting and indulgent.
One bite, and you’ll understand why this recipe has earned its place as a modern classic among comfort food lovers.
