There's nothing quite like the comforting taste of a classic bacon cheeseburger – but what if you could enjoy all those flavors in a hearty, family-friendly meatloaf? This Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf combines the smoky goodness of crispy bacon, the savory richness of beef, and gooey melted cheese into one irresistible dish.

I first whipped up this recipe on a whim when I had leftover ground beef and a few strips of bacon in the fridge. It quickly became a hit in our household, and now it's my go-to recipe when we’re craving something indulgent yet easy to prepare. Let’s dive into why this dish deserves a spot on your dinner table.

Why You'll Love This Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Get ready to meet your new favorite comfort food. This Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is packed with flavor, easy to make, and perfect for feeding a crowd.

First off, it’s a total time-saver. With minimal prep work, you can have this meatloaf in the oven in no time, leaving you free to take care of other things while it cooks. Perfect for busy weeknights!

The combination of ground beef, crispy bacon, and melty cheese creates a flavor explosion that feels like biting into the ultimate cheeseburger – but with a satisfying, hearty twist. It’s comfort food at its best.

Another reason to love this recipe? It’s completely customizable. Swap the cheese, experiment with different seasonings, or even sneak in some veggies – the possibilities are endless.

Lastly, leftovers are just as good, if not better. You can slice up the meatloaf and make the most epic sandwiches or simply reheat it for a quick meal the next day.

Ingredients Notes

This recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients to create a dish that's anything but ordinary. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ground beef: The foundation of this recipe. I recommend using an 80/20 blend for the perfect balance of flavor and moisture. Leaner beef can work, but you may want to add a splash of milk or an extra egg to prevent dryness.
Bacon: The smoky, savory star of the show. Chop it finely and cook until crispy before mixing it into the meatloaf.
Cheese: Shredded cheddar is a classic choice, but feel free to use your favorite variety. Gouda or pepper jack would add an extra layer of flavor.
Breadcrumbs: These help bind the meatloaf together. Panko breadcrumbs work wonderfully, but regular breadcrumbs or even crushed crackers can be substituted.
Eggs: Essential for holding everything together. Make sure to lightly beat them before adding to the mixture.
Ketchup and mustard: These condiments give the meatloaf its signature cheeseburger flavor. A touch of Worcestershire sauce elevates it even further.
Onions and garlic: Minced onions and garlic add depth and aromatic richness to the meatloaf. Sauté them for a milder, sweeter flavor.

If you have a loaf pan, it helps shape the meatloaf perfectly, but a freeform loaf on a baking sheet works just as well.

How To Make This Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Making this Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is easier than you might think. Follow these simple steps to create a dish that’s sure to impress.

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. While the oven heats, cook your chopped bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside, reserving a tablespoon of the bacon grease for extra flavor.

In a large mixing bowl, combine your ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, ketchup, mustard, and a splash of Worcestershire sauce. Add the crispy bacon, shredded cheese, and sautéed onions and garlic. Mix everything gently with your hands or a spatula until just combined – overmixing can make the meatloaf tough.

Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spread a thin layer of ketchup on top for that classic meatloaf glaze. If you like a little sweetness, mix in a teaspoon of brown sugar with the ketchup before spreading.

Bake the meatloaf for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing to ensure it stays juicy and holds its shape.

Storage Options

Leftovers? No problem! This meatloaf stores beautifully and tastes just as good the next day.

For short-term storage, wrap the meatloaf tightly in aluminum foil or place slices in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

For longer storage, wrap the entire loaf or individual slices in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Microwave reheating works too but can dry out the meat. To prevent this, cover the meatloaf slice with a damp paper towel while microwaving.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is how versatile it is. Here are a few ideas to switch things up:

Cheese swaps: Try mozzarella, provolone, or Monterey Jack for a different cheesy twist. For a bold flavor, add a few crumbles of blue cheese.
Add some spice: Mix in diced jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or a splash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Healthier options: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. Turkey bacon is a great substitute too.
Veggie boost: Finely chop mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini and mix them into the meatloaf for extra nutrients and moisture.
Gluten-free option: Replace the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.

Experimenting is half the fun, so don’t be afraid to get creative and make this dish your own!

This Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is the ultimate comfort food mashup that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving it for a casual dinner o