Prepare to elevate your comfort food game with “Indulgent Twist: Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf,” a mouthwatering creation that infuses the beloved flavors of a classic cheeseburger into the homey, satisfying form of meatloaf. This dish combines juicy ground beef, savory bacon, and melty cheese, along with the traditional fixings of a burger, all baked to perfection. It’s a hearty, flavorful meal that promises to be a hit, whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for a show-stopping main dish at your next gathering.
Why You’ll Love Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf:
- Familiar Yet Innovative: Merges the comforting taste of meatloaf with the irresistible flavors of a bacon cheeseburger.
- Hearty and Satisfying: A filling dish that’s sure to please meat lovers and comfort food aficionados alike.
- Versatile: Easy to adapt with different fillings and toppings to suit your taste buds.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for a cozy family dinner, a casual get-together, or a special weekday feast.
Ingredients Notes For Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf:
- Ground Beef: The base of the meatloaf, providing rich, meaty flavors.
- Bacon: Adds a smoky, savory element that’s synonymous with the best cheeseburgers.
- Cheese: Use a good melting cheese like cheddar or American for that classic cheeseburger experience.
- Breadcrumbs and Egg: Help bind the mixture together for the perfect texture.
- Seasonings: Incorporate classic burger seasonings like onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Toppings: Ketchup, mustard, and pickles mimic the classic cheeseburger condiments, adding layers of flavor.
Recipe Steps:
- Prep the Ingredients: Cook the bacon until crispy, then chop into small pieces. Preheat your oven and prepare a loaf pan.
- Mix the Meatloaf: Combine ground beef, cooked bacon, shredded cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, and seasonings in a large bowl. Mix until well combined but not overworked.
- Form the Loaf: Press the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan, shaping it evenly.
- Add Toppings: Spread ketchup over the top and sprinkle with additional bacon pieces or cheese if desired.
- Bake: Cook in the preheated oven until the meatloaf is fully cooked through and the top is caramelized.
- Serve: Let the meatloaf rest before slicing. Serve with classic sides like mashed potatoes or a fresh salad.
Storage Options:
- Refrigerate: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Wrap the cooked meatloaf well and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup onion finely chopped
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded
- 4-5 slices of bacon
- Additional toppings: sliced pickles ketchup, and mustard for serving
Instructions
Preheat Oven and Prepare Loaf Pan:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easier removal.
Mix the Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, milk, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined but do not overmix to prevent the meatloaf from becoming tough.
Add Cheese:
- Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, distributing it evenly throughout the mixture.
Form the Meatloaf:
- Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared loaf pan, shaping it into a loaf.
Add Bacon:
- Lay the slices of bacon across the top of the meatloaf, covering it entirely. Tuck the ends of the bacon slices underneath the meatloaf to prevent curling during cooking.
Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the bacon on top is crispy. An internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) indicates that the meatloaf is fully cooked.
Rest and Serve:
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes after removing it from the oven before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute.
- Serve with your favorite burger toppings like sliced pickles, ketchup, and mustard on the side.
