Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Here’s a  recipe for a Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf that’s juicy, flavorful, and packed with all the deliciousness of a bacon cheeseburger in meatloaf form.

Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Meatloaf:

• 1 ½ lbs ground beef (80/20 blend is best for flavor and juiciness)

• ½ lb ground pork (optional, adds moisture and flavor)

• 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)

• 1/3 cup milk

• 1 large egg

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tsp mustard (yellow or Dijon)

• 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional for a smoky flavor)

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or American cheese)

For the Bacon:

• 6-8 slices bacon

For the Topping/Glaze:

• ½ cup ketchup

• 2 tbsp brown sugar

• 1 tbsp yellow mustard

• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Prepare the meat mixture:

   • In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork (if using), breadcrumbs, milk, egg, chopped onion, garlic, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and smoked paprika.

   • Mix everything together gently but thoroughly—try not to overwork the meat to keep the meatloaf tender.

3. Add the cheese:
   Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese evenly through the meat mixture.

4. Shape the meatloaf:

   • On a baking sheet or in a loaf pan, shape the meat mixture into a loaf shape. If you want, you can also line a loaf pan with bacon strips first, then fill with meat, and wrap the bacon over the top.

5. Wrap with bacon:
   Lay the bacon strips over the top of the meatloaf. The bacon will crisp up and add amazing flavor.

6. Prepare the glaze:

   • In a small bowl, mix together ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce.

   • Spread half of this glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.

7. Bake:
   Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for about 50-60 minutes.

   • Halfway through baking (around 30 minutes), spread the remaining glaze over the top of the meatloaf.

   • Continue baking until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).

8. Rest:
   Remove from the oven and let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps it set and keeps it juicy.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve slices of meatloaf on their own or with classic cheeseburger sides like fries, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.

• You can also put slices inside buns for a meatloaf sandwich with pickles, lettuce, and tomato.