Cheesy Bacon Meatloaf: A Delicious Twist on a Classic

Welcome to a mouthwatering twist on a classic comfort food favorite – Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Loaf! This recipe perfectly combines all the elements of a juicy bacon cheeseburger into a savory meatloaf that will have your taste buds dancing with delight.

Imagine sinking your teeth into a slice of tender ground beef studded with gooey cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and the tangy crunch of diced pickles, all wrapped in a blanket of smoky bacon strips. Each bite is a flavorful journey reminiscent of your favorite drive-thru indulgence, but lovingly homemade in your own kitchen.

Whether you’re preparing a cozy family dinner or feeding a crowd at a gathering, this Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Loaf is sure to steal the show. The sweet and tangy glaze adds the perfect finishing touch, making this dish a true crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create a memorable meal that will have your loved ones asking for more.

Quick Benefits

• Juicy ground beef, melty cheese, smoky bacon, and a sweet tangy glaze create a comforting, flavor-packed meal reminiscent of a drive-thru burger.
• Versatile recipe perfect for feeding a crowd, making ahead for busy weeknights, or serving as a nostalgic family dinner favorite.
• Customizable options like swapping ground turkey or beef-pork blend, trying different cheeses, and incorporating gluten-free breadcrumbs cater to various dietary preferences.
• Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to four days or can be frozen for longer storage, offering convenience and a delicious meal prep option.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Bacon Meatloaf: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Recipe

• Nostalgic Drive-Thru Flavors: This recipe captures the essence of a bacon cheeseburger in a comforting meatloaf form, perfect for those craving classic flavors.
• Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Ideal for feeding a group or meal prepping for busy weeknights, this meatloaf disappears fast and is a hit with guests.
• Kid-Friendly Recipe: Children love helping wrap the meatloaf in bacon, making it a fun and interactive cooking experience for the whole family.
• Unique Flavor Combinations: The blend of cheddar cheese, pickles, and bacon creates a taste sensation reminiscent of a cheeseburger, adding a delicious twist to a traditional meatloaf.
• Versatile Options: Easily customizable with different meat blends, cheese varieties, and glaze alternatives, allowing for a range of flavor experiences.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Can be prepared ahead of time, stored in the fridge for several days, or frozen for longer storage, making it a convenient option for busy schedules.
• Meal Pairing Suggestions: Serve with classic sides like mashed potatoes and green beans or get creative by turning leftovers into sandwiches or pairing with coleslaw or salad for a well-rounded meal.
• Seasonal Variations: Easily adaptable to different seasons by swapping out glaze flavors or adding seasonal ingredients, providing a fresh twist to the dish throughout the year.
• Historical Significance: A modern take on the classic meatloaf, this recipe pays homage to the dish’s origins as an affordable and comforting meal while adding a decadent touch with the bacon and cheeseburger twist.
• Texture and Flavor Tips: Follow the recommended ground beef ratio, avoid overmixing, and allow the meatloaf to rest before slicing to retain moisture and juiciness, ensuring a delicious outcome every time.

Ingredients for Cheesy Bacon Meatloaf: A Delicious Twist on a Classic

Meatloaf Mixture

• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 2 large eggs
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 cup plain or seasoned breadcrumbs
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons ketchup

Filling

• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella
• 1/2 cup cooked, crumbled bacon (approximately 4 to 5 slices)
• 1/2 cup diced dill pickles (optional)

Bacon Wrap

• 10 to 12 slices thick-cut bacon

Glaze

• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar

Pro Tips for Cheesy Bacon Meatloaf: A Delicious Twist on a Classic

For the best results when making this Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Loaf, be sure to use 80/20 ground beef for a juicy and flavorful outcome. Avoid overmixing the meat mixture to prevent a dense loaf—gentle mixing is key. Letting the meatloaf rest before slicing will help retain its juices and keep it moist, so patience is rewarded with a delicious meal.

Feel free to experiment with different cheese blends like mozzarella or Monterey Jack to add a unique twist to the filling. When wrapping the meatloaf with bacon, tuck the bacon ends under the loaf and slightly overlap the slices for better grip and texture. Pair this hearty dish with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, a crisp salad, or even french fries for a well-rounded and satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy.

Consider assembling the meatloaf up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerating it until ready to bake. This make-ahead option not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld for an even tastier dish. If you prefer, you can swap breadcrumbs for crushed crackers, oats, or panko for a different texture in the meat mixture.

How to Make Cheesy Bacon Meatloaf: A Delicious Twist on a Classic

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan

Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet or roasting pan with foil and place a wire rack on top for even cooking and drainage. Alternatively, place the loaf directly on the pan and drain excess grease halfway through baking if not using a rack.

Step 2: Combine Meatloaf Ingredients

Combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika in a large bowl. Mix gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

Combine shredded cheese, crumbled bacon, and diced dill pickles in a bowl. Set aside for assembling the loaf.

Step 4: Shape and Fill the Loaf

Place parchment paper or plastic wrap on a clean surface. Shape the meat into a 10×12-inch rectangle, 3/4-inch thick. Spread the filling evenly, leaving a 1-inch border. Roll the meat tightly with the paper, pinching seams closed. Transfer rolled meat, seam side down, to a rack.

Step 5: Arrange Bacon Wrap

Layer thick-cut bacon slices over the meatloaf, slightly overlapping to cover it completely. Fold the ends under the loaf or weave for a decorative touch.

Step 6: Prepare and Apply the Glaze

Combine ketchup, brown sugar, yellow mustard, and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl. Brush half of the glaze over the top and sides of the bacon-wrapped item.

Step 7: Bake the Meatloaf

Bake in the preheated oven for 60 to 70 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F. Halfway through baking, brush on the remaining glaze. If the bacon is not crispy, broil for 2 to 3 more minutes until golden.

Step 8: Rest and Serve

Take the meatloaf out of the oven and let it rest for 10 to 15 minutes. Slice thick pieces and serve with sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or salad. Add extra glaze or ketchup for garnish, if preferred.

Storage Tips

Once you have made the delicious bacon cheeseburger meatloaf, ensure it is cooled completely before storing. To keep leftovers fresh, tightly wrap the meatloaf in foil and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The meatloaf can be kept this way for up to four days. If you wish to store it for longer, freeze the whole loaf or individual slices for up to two months. When reheating, gently warm the meatloaf in the oven to preserve its flavors and textures.

For variations on this recipe, consider using ground turkey or a beef-pork blend for a lighter or richer option. Different cheeses like Swiss or Monterey Jack can provide a unique twist to the filling. Additionally, using gluten-free breadcrumbs can make the dish allergy-friendly. To serve this bacon cheeseburger meatloaf, pair it with classic sides like mashed potatoes and green beans, or get creative by making a meatloaf sandwich with lettuce and tomato. The versatility of this dish allows for various serving options to suit different preferences and occasions.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a lighter or richer option, consider swapping the ground beef with ground turkey or a beef-pork blend. This can cater to different dietary preferences and add a unique flavor profile to the dish. Additionally, if you want to experiment with different types of cheese, try using Swiss or Monterey Jack cheese instead of cheddar for a different melty experience in the meatloaf filling.

If you have dietary restrictions or preferences, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs as a substitute in the recipe. This adjustment can make the dish gluten-free and cater to individuals with gluten sensitivities or allergies. Similarly, if you prefer a different texture or taste in the filling, crushed crackers, oats, or panko can be used instead of breadcrumbs for binding the meat mixture. These substitutions offer flexibility in customizing the dish to suit your needs or preferences.

Serving Suggestions

This Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Loaf is a delicious twist on a classic comfort food! For a creative serving suggestion, try slicing the meatloaf into thick slices and pan-frying them to create crispy edges. Serve the pan-fried slices on a toasted brioche bun with your favorite burger toppings for a unique and flavorful meatloaf burger experience. The combination of juicy meatloaf, melted cheese, smoky bacon, and tangy glaze will make this a meal to remember!

For a fun appetizer or party snack idea, cut the Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Loaf into bite-sized cubes and skewer them with toothpicks. Serve these mini meatloaf skewers with a side of ketchup or mustard dipping sauce for a crowd-pleasing and convenient finger food option. The individual portions make it easy for guests to enjoy all the delicious flavors of a bacon cheeseburger in a convenient and shareable format.

FAQs for Cheesy Bacon Meatloaf: A Delicious Twist on a Classic

Can I use a different type of ground meat in this recipe?

Yes, you can swap the ground beef for ground turkey or a beef-pork blend to suit your preferences.

Can I prepare this meatloaf ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the meatloaf and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking it for the best texture and flavor.

What sides go well with this bacon cheeseburger meatloaf?

Classic sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, crisp salad, or even french fries pair perfectly with this dish.

Can I use a different type of cheese for the filling?

Yes, cheese blends like mozzarella or Monterey Jack work well and give a unique flavor to the filling, so feel free to experiment with different cheeses.

Conclusion

I hope you enjoy making and savoring this delicious Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Loaf as much as I do. The blend of juicy ground beef, melty cheese, smoky bacon, and that sweet tangy glaze is truly a winning combination that brings the flavors of a classic cheeseburger right to your dinner table.

Remember to have fun experimenting with different cheese blends, toppings, and sides to make this recipe your own. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a cozy family meal, this Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Loaf is sure to be a hit. So go ahead, wrap it in bacon, bake it to perfection, and savor every bite of this comforting and flavorful dish.

Thank you for joining me on this culinary journey. Happy cooking, and may your kitchen be filled with the delicious aroma of Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Loaf!