Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe – Juicy, Cheesy, and Irresistible

Prepare your taste buds for a true comfort food masterpiece with our Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf recipe! Growing up in Iowa, many of us remember the warmth of grandma’s kitchen, where the aroma of a hearty meatloaf filled the air. This dish brings that nostalgic feeling straight to your table, combining juicy ground beef, crispy bacon, and gooey cheddar cheese into a single, mouthwatering loaf. Whether you’re cooking for your family, entertaining guests, or just craving a deliciously satisfying dinner, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.

Why This Recipe Works

What makes this Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf so special? It’s all about the balance of textures and flavors. The ground beef provides a tender and juicy base, while bacon adds a smoky crunch. Cheddar cheese melts perfectly into the meat, creating a rich, gooey interior. Seasonings like ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, onion, and garlic enhance every bite, ensuring every forkful is packed with classic cheeseburger flavor. Plus, the sweet and tangy topping caramelizes beautifully during baking, giving your meatloaf a stunning golden finish.

Ingredients – What You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role in creating the perfect Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf:

Ground beef (1 1/2 lbs) – The heart of the meatloaf, providing juiciness and structure. Use a mix with 15-20% fat for the best flavor.
Bacon (8 slices) – Adds smoky flavor and crispy texture that elevates every bite.
Sharp cheddar cheese (1 cup, shredded) – Melts into the meat for a gooey, cheesy center.
Bread crumbs (1/2 cup) – Helps bind the meat together while keeping it tender.
Ketchup (1/4 cup) – Adds a tangy sweetness that balances the savory meat.
Mustard (1/4 cup) – Introduces a subtle sharpness that complements the cheese and bacon.
Worcestershire sauce (2 tbsp) – Deepens the flavor with umami richness.
Onion (1, finely chopped) – Adds natural sweetness and aromatic flavor.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced) – Provides a warm, savory note.
Eggs (2, beaten) – Acts as a binder to keep the meatloaf together while baking.
Salt & Pepper (to taste) – Enhances all the natural flavors in the meatloaf.

Ingredients for the Topping

Ketchup (1/2 cup) – Sweetens and glazes the top for a beautiful finish.
Mustard (1 tbsp) – Adds a tangy kick to the glaze.
Brown sugar (2 tbsp) – Caramelizes during baking for a sweet, glossy crust.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan thoroughly with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking.

2. Cook the Bacon

Fry the bacon until crispy, then transfer to a paper towel-lined plate. Once cooled, crumble it into small pieces. This bacon will be folded into the meatloaf mixture for smoky flavor.

3. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine:

Ground beef
Crumpled bacon
Shredded cheddar cheese
Bread crumbs
Ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce
Chopped onion and minced garlic
Beaten eggs
Salt and pepper

Mix gently using your hands or a spatula until all ingredients are evenly combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.

4. Shape the Meatloaf

Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan, pressing it down lightly to remove air pockets. Smooth the top with a spatula for an even surface.

5. Prepare the Topping

In a small bowl, mix ketchup, mustard, and brown sugar until smooth. Spread evenly over the top of the meatloaf. This topping will caramelize and create a flavorful glaze.

6. Bake the Meatloaf

Bake in the preheated oven for 50–60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Halfway through baking, baste the top with the glaze for extra flavor and shine.

7. Rest Before Slicing

Once baked, let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This ensures the juices redistribute, keeping each slice moist and flavorful.

Pro Tips for Perfect Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Meat Selection: Use ground beef with a moderate fat content for juiciness; lean meat can result in a dry loaf.
Uniform Mixing: Mix ingredients gently to avoid compacting the meat, which can make the loaf dense.
Cheese Distribution: Fold cheese evenly throughout the meat to ensure every bite is cheesy.
Baking Pan Choice: A loaf pan helps hold the shape, but baking free-form on a rimmed sheet gives more crust.
Glaze Perfection: Don’t skip the glaze; it enhances flavor and gives that signature golden finish.
Resting Time: Allowing the meatloaf to rest makes slicing cleaner and preserves moisture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf with classic sides for a complete, hearty meal. Some great options include:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes complement the savory meatloaf perfectly.
Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, green beans, or Brussels sprouts add color and nutrition.
Salad: A crisp garden salad provides a refreshing contrast.
Buttered Rolls: Perfect for mopping up the delicious glaze.

Why This Recipe Is Loved

This Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf resonates with everyone because it combines two all-time favorite flavors: bacon cheeseburgers and classic meatloaf. Families love it because it’s easy to make yet impressive, and it’s versatile enough to adapt to your taste. Whether you’re doubling it for a crowd or making a single loaf for dinner, it always delivers the ultimate comfort food experience.

Conclusion – Simple, Delicious, and Irresistible

In summary, this Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is the perfect marriage of juicy beef, smoky bacon, and melted cheddar cheese, all topped with a sweet and tangy glaze. It’s a dish that evokes nostalgia, satisfies cravings, and makes any dinner feel special. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a restaurant-quality comfort meal in your own kitchen. Bring the flavors of Iowa and grandma’s kitchen to your table and watch your family fall in love with every bite. This meatloaf isn’t just food—it’s a memory, a celebration of flavor, and a guaranteed hit at every meal.

Try this recipe today and experience the ultimate comfort food delight!