Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is the ultimate comfort food, combining the classic flavors of a cheeseburger with the hearty texture of a meatloaf. This mouthwatering dish is packed with savory ground beef and pork, tangy mustard, ketchup, and pickles, all topped with melted cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon. It’s like getting the best of both worlds in one easy-to-make meal. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this meatloaf is sure to become a family favorite.

This recipe takes all the flavors of a delicious bacon cheeseburger and turns them into a tender, flavorful meatloaf. The combination of ground beef and pork gives it a rich, juicy texture, while the bacon and cheese provide that irresistible savory goodness. It’s a simple, no-fuss recipe that’s perfect for satisfying even the pickiest eaters. Plus, it can easily be made ahead of time, making it a great option for busy families.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Cheeseburger Flavors

The classic combination of beef, bacon, and cheese brings all the deliciousness of a cheeseburger into a tender meatloaf.

2. Quick and Easy

With just 15 minutes of prep time, this meatloaf is an easy, no-fuss meal that can be served any night of the week.

3. Perfect for Meal Prep

This meatloaf keeps well in the fridge for leftovers or can be made ahead for a quick, reheatable meal.

4. Savory and Filling

The combination of ground beef, pork, and cheese makes this meatloaf hearty and satisfying for any appetite.

5. Kid-Friendly

With familiar ingredients like bacon and cheese, this recipe is a hit with kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

• Ground beef
• Ground pork
• Breadcrumbs
• Ketchup
• Mustard
• Pickles, chopped
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Bacon, cooked and crumbled
• Eggs
• Salt and pepper

Variations

• Turkey or Chicken Meatloaf: Swap the beef and pork with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
• Vegetarian Version: Use a plant-based meat substitute for the ground beef and pork, and load up on extra veggies and cheese for added flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture for a spicy twist.
• Bacon Lovers: Add extra crumbled bacon inside the meatloaf or on top for even more flavor.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

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

Step 2: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture

2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, ketchup, mustard, chopped pickles, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, eggs, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Mix Ingredients

3. Mix everything together until well combined. Make sure the ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the meat.

Step 4: Shape the Meatloaf

4. Press the meat mixture into a loaf pan, shaping it into a uniform loaf.

Step 5: Bake the Meatloaf

5. Bake for 1 hour or until the meatloaf is cooked through. You can check the internal temperature; it should reach 160°F (71°C) for it to be fully cooked.

Step 6: Rest and Slice

6. Allow the meatloaf to rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, making the meatloaf even more flavorful.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

7. Slice and serve hot with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use Lean Meat: If you prefer a leaner meatloaf, choose lean ground beef or substitute some of the ground pork with turkey.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix just until everything is combined. Overmixing can lead to a denser texture.
• Bacon Crispiness: Make sure your bacon is crispy before crumbling it into the meat mixture to avoid a soggy texture.
• Resting Time: Let the meatloaf rest after baking to allow the juices to settle for a juicier, more flavorful result.

How to Serve

Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides. Try it with mashed potatoes, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. You could also serve it with a side salad or coleslaw to balance out the richness of the meatloaf. For an extra indulgence, serve it with extra ketchup or a drizzle of barbecue sauce on the side.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Freezing

You can freeze leftover meatloaf for up to 3 months. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-30 minutes, or until heated through.

Reheating

To reheat slices of meatloaf, cover them with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until hot. Alternatively, you can microwave individual slices for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use all beef instead of beef and pork?

Yes, you can use all ground beef if you prefer, but the addition of pork adds moisture and flavor.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.

3. Can I use a different cheese?

Yes, feel free to swap out the cheddar cheese for another type of cheese, like mozzarella or gouda, for a different flavor.

4. How can I make the meatloaf spicier?

You can add chopped jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to the meat mixture for a spicy kick.

5. How do I know when the meatloaf is cooked through?

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

6. Can I freeze the meatloaf before baking?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled meatloaf before baking. Just bake it directly from the freezer, adding extra cooking time.

7. Can I use turkey or chicken instead of pork and beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a substitute for the pork and beef mixture in this recipe.

8. What should I serve with this meatloaf?

Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf pairs well with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.

9. Can I make mini meatloafs instead of one large one?

Yes, you can shape the meat mixture into mini loaves and reduce the cooking time to about 30-40 minutes.

10. How long will leftovers last?

Leftover meatloaf can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is a flavorful twist on the classic meatloaf, bringing together all the familiar tastes of a cheeseburger in a comforting, hearty dish. The combination of beef, pork, cheese, bacon, and tangy condiments makes this a meal the whole family will enjoy. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or prepping it for leftovers, this recipe is sure to satisfy all your cravings.

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