There's something undeniably comforting about the classic flavors of a bacon cheeseburger—juicy beef, smoky bacon, and melty cheese. Now imagine those flavors wrapped into a hearty meatloaf that brings the best of the burger world to your dinner table.

I discovered this recipe during a family barbecue when we had leftover burger toppings but no buns. After a bit of experimenting, this Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf was born, quickly earning a spot as a family favorite. Let's dive into what makes this dish so special.

Why You'll Love This Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Get ready to elevate your dinner game with this incredible twist on meatloaf. It combines the best of two comfort-food worlds: the satisfying richness of meatloaf and the classic taste of a bacon cheeseburger.

Quick to Prepare: While it looks and tastes impressive, this meatloaf comes together in just 20 minutes of prep, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavors: Smoky bacon, gooey cheese, and savory beef ensure even the pickiest eaters will ask for seconds.
Meal Prep Friendly: Leftovers reheat beautifully, making it a great option for lunches or quick dinners later in the week.
Customizable: Whether you want to add extra toppings or switch up the cheese, this recipe adapts to your tastes.

This bacon cheeseburger meatloaf is sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation, so let's look at what you’ll need to get started.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this recipe lies in its straightforward yet flavorful ingredients. Each one works together to recreate the essence of a bacon cheeseburger.

Ground Beef: The foundation of the meatloaf. I recommend 80/20 ground beef for a perfect balance of juiciness and structure. If you prefer leaner beef, you can mix in ground pork for added moisture.
Bacon: Crispy, smoky bacon strips are layered and crumbled throughout the meatloaf. This ingredient is non-negotiable—it’s what gives this recipe its irresistible flavor.
Cheese: Use shredded cheddar cheese for its sharp, tangy flavor that melts beautifully into the meatloaf. Feel free to experiment with other cheese varieties, like Swiss or pepper jack, for a fun twist.
Breadcrumbs and Milk: These create the perfect moist, tender texture, preventing the meatloaf from becoming too dense.
Burger Toppings: Think of ketchup, mustard, and diced pickles mixed into the meatloaf for that signature cheeseburger taste. You’ll also brush more ketchup on top for a tangy glaze.

You’ll also need a loaf pan, parchment paper, and a mixing bowl for easy preparation.

How To Make This Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Creating this flavor-packed meatloaf is simpler than you might think. Here’s how to do it, step by step.

Prepare the Bacon: Begin by frying or baking your bacon strips until crispy. Drain them on paper towels and chop them into small pieces. Reserve some whole strips for a decorative topping if you like.
Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, shredded cheddar, chopped bacon, ketchup, mustard, and diced pickles. Use your hands or a large spoon to mix everything until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
Shape and Assemble: Line a loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. Transfer the meat mixture into the pan, pressing it gently to form a loaf shape. Brush the top with a layer of ketchup for a glossy finish.
Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the meatloaf for 50-60 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). During the last 10 minutes, layer the reserved bacon strips on top and sprinkle with extra cheese.
Rest and Serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This step allows the juices to redistribute, making every bite moist and flavorful.

The total cooking time is just over an hour, but the results are well worth the wait!

Storage Options

One of the best things about this Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is how well it stores. Whether you have leftovers or want to prepare it ahead, here’s how to keep it fresh:

Refrigeration: Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Wrap the entire meatloaf (or individual slices) in aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Warm slices in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. For best results, add a sprinkle of cheese on top before reheating.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly versatile, so feel free to make it your own:

Add Veggies: Finely chopped onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms can be mixed into the meatloaf for added flavor and nutrition.
Switch Up the Protein: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Just be mindful that these proteins may require additional seasoning for robust flavor.
Cheese Lovers’ Dream: Double up on the cheese by adding a layer of cheese slices in the middle of the meatloaf before baking.
Spicy Twist: Mix in diced jalapeños or use pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick.
Low-Carb Option: Substitute almond flour or crushed pork rinds for breadcrumbs to make this recipe keto-friendly.

Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your favorite combination!

The Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is everything you love about a cheeseburger in a comforting, sliceable form. It’s the ultimate family-friendly dish that’s sure to bring smiles to your dinner table. Give it a try, and let me know how you make it your own!