Tasty Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

If you’re craving the flavors of a classic cheeseburger but want something cozier for dinner this Tasty Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is the answer Savory tender beef blends with sharp cheddar smoky bacon crispy onions and a tangy glaze so every slice is packed with comfort and nostalgia

It reminds me of backyard cookouts but in this fun oven baked twist and has turned regular weeknights into something a bit more special for my family

Ingredients

• Lean ground beef: This is the hearty base so look for fresh brightly colored meat with at least 85 percent lean for less grease
• Dill pickle relish: The relish adds that signature burger zing To keep the meatloaf from getting soggy be sure to drain it well
• Crispy fried onions: Brings crunch and sweet savoriness If using onion powder or dried flakes choose brands with a strong onion aroma
• Eggs: Bind everything together making the loaf sliceable and moist Use the freshest eggs possible
• Panko breadcrumbs: Helps retain moisture and gives a more tender crumb than regular breadcrumbs
• Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami and rounds out the flavor Look for one with balanced salt and tang
• Smoke flavor: Imbues every bite with backyard grill notes without firing up a smoker Choose a natural liquid smoke if possible
• Sharp cheddar cheese: Diced cheese melts into gooey pockets Select a block of real sharp cheddar and cube it yourself for more flavor
• Uncooked bacon: Both inside and covering the loaf delivers max bacon flavor Use thick cut if possible for great texture
• Ketchup: For a classic bright glaze A squeeze bottle is easiest for measuring and mixing
• Maple syrup or brown sugar: Brings sweetness and balances the tomato tang
• Sriracha: Optional but brings gentle heat and a modern kick

Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set oven to 350 degrees F so it is fully hot when the meatloaf is ready Insert your oven rack in the middle position for even cooking

Prepare the Pickle Relish:

Pour the relish into a mesh strainer and press gently with a spoon to remove as much liquid as possible This step ensures the meatloaf does not get soggy and holds its shape

Mix the Meatloaf Base:

In a large mixing bowl gently combine the ground beef drained relish crispy fried onions eggs panko breadcrumbs Worcestershire sauce and smoke flavor Use clean hands or a fork Do not overmix or your meatloaf will be dense Instead mix lightly until just combined

Add Bacon Pieces:

Take 6 bacon strips and use kitchen scissors or a knife to cut them into small pieces Stir these into your meat mixture Make sure the bacon bits are distributed throughout Every slice should have that smoky bacon flavor

Mix in the Cheese:

Dice your cheddar into small cubes and fold into the beef mixture The cheese will melt into pockets so distribute evenly without breaking up the cubes too much

Form and Pan the Loaf:

Using your hands shape the meat mixture into a loaf about 8 by 4 inches Place on a foil lined baking sheet or in a 9x13 inch pan This gives room for juices to flow and makes cleanup easy

Top with Bacon:

Layer the remaining bacon slices lengthwise across the meatloaf tucking the ends underneath for secure coverage Slightly overlap the bacon in stripes covering the whole loaf for best texture and look

Bake to Perfection:

Slide your pan into the oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes Meatloaf is ready when the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees F measured with a meat thermometer The bacon should be crisp and the cheddar melted

Prepare and Apply the Glaze:

In a small bowl stir together the ketchup maple syrup or brown sugar and sriracha if using Once the meatloaf is baked remove from oven and brush glaze evenly over the top and sides

Final Bake for Caramelization:

Return the glazed meatloaf to the oven and bake another 5 to 10 minutes The glaze should bubble and darken slightly for a sticky finishing touch Rest before slicing

The way sharp cheddar turns oozy inside reminds me of sneaking bits of cheese from my grandma’s Sunday meatloaf prep The smoky bacon on top always brings me back to kitchen laughs shared while laying each piece just right

Storage Tips

You can store cooked meatloaf slices in a sealed container for up to 4 days in the fridge Let the loaf cool completely before slicing for the cleanest cuts For longer storage wrap tightly and freeze for up to three months Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat covered in the oven for best texture

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap ground turkey or a mix of beef and pork for the ground beef if you want a lighter loaf If you do not have crispy onions try fresh grated onion which will add moisture or use extra onion powder Dairy free cheese works in place of cheddar for lactose sensitive eaters

Serving Suggestions

Serve with classic burger sides like potato wedges or a crisp green salad Drizzle a bit more ketchup or your favorite burger sauce on top My family loves this with roasted broccoli or as a sandwich with extra pickles on the side

Cultural Context

Meatloaf is an American classic with roots tracing back to European kitchen traditions The addition of bacon and cheese brings a playful cheeseburger twist that kids and adults can both get excited about It is a great example of comfort food evolution

Seasonal Adaptations

In summer try tossing a handful of fresh chopped garden herbs into the loaf In autumn a sprinkle of smoked paprika gives it an extra cozy kick Winter is perfect for using rich sharp cheddar and hearty thick cut bacon If you love a bit of sweetness swap maple syrup in the glaze for a hint of autumnal flavor

Great for weeknight dinners and family gatherings Easy to customize with different cheeses or meats Makes fantastic sandwiches with leftovers

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of ground beef works best?

Use lean ground beef (around 85% lean) for a balance of moisture and structure. Avoid extra-lean to keep it juicy.

→ Can I prepare it ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the loaf and refrigerate for several hours or overnight. Bake just before serving for best results.

→ How do I know when it's done?

The internal temperature should reach 160°F. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. Let it rest before slicing.

→ Are there cheese alternatives?

Sharp cheddar gives robust flavor, but you can substitute with gouda, monterey jack, or pepper jack if preferred.

→ What sides pair well with this meatloaf?

Mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, coleslaw, or a simple green salad all complement this rich and hearty main.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely. Slice and wrap tightly or store in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot.