BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

If you love the smoky, savory taste of a BBQ bacon cheeseburger, this BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is about to become your new favorite comfort food. Imagine all the flavors of a juicy burger—ground beef, crispy bacon, melty cheese, and tangy BBQ sauce—combined into one satisfying dish that’s perfect for dinner. This meatloaf is a creative twist on a classic, bringing together the best of both worlds: the hearty goodness of meatloaf and the mouthwatering flavors of a BBQ bacon cheeseburger. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to please. The bacon not only adds a deliciously crispy texture but also infuses the meatloaf with an irresistible smoky flavor. Meanwhile, the cheese melts into the beef, creating pockets of gooey goodness with every slice. Topped with a sweet and tangy BBQ glaze, this meatloaf delivers a delightful balance of flavors in every bite. Serve it with mashed potatoes or roasted veggies for a meal that’s comforting, flavorful, and satisfying. Plus, it makes for great leftovers, so you can enjoy it the next day, too!

Ingredients

• For the Meatloaf:
  • 1 1/2 lbs ground beef
  • 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (plus extra for glazing)
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
• For the BBQ Glaze:
  • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
  • 2 tbsp ketchup
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tsp mustard

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.
2. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked and crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, milk, chopped onion, minced garlic, beaten egg, 1/4 cup BBQ sauce, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper.
   • Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
3. Shape the Meatloaf:
   • Transfer the meatloaf mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and shape it into a loaf, about 9×5 inches. Alternatively, press the mixture into a loaf pan.
4. Prepare the BBQ Glaze:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup BBQ sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard until smooth.
5. Glaze and Bake:
   • Brush the top of the meatloaf with half of the BBQ glaze, reserving the rest for later.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
6. Finish Baking:
   • After 45 minutes, remove the meatloaf from the oven and brush with the remaining BBQ glaze.
   • Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
7. Rest and Serve:
   • Once fully cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
   • Serve with your favorite side dishes.

How to Prepare

1. Make Ahead: You can prepare the meatloaf mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, simply shape it into a loaf and bake.
2. Cooking Tips: For the best flavor, use a mix of lean ground beef and bacon. Ensure the bacon is fully cooked and crispy before adding it to the mixture.
3. Serving Suggestion: Pair this meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Servings

This recipe serves 6 people.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use a different type of meat?
A1: Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture will vary slightly.

Q2: What type of BBQ sauce is best for this recipe?
A2: Use your favorite BBQ sauce, whether it’s sweet, smoky, or spicy. A well-balanced sauce with a hint of sweetness works best to complement the savory meatloaf.

Q3: Can I add vegetables to the meatloaf?
A3: Yes, finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms can be added to the meatloaf mixture for extra flavor and moisture.

Q4: How do I store leftovers?
A4: Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in the oven or microwave before serving.

Q5: Can I freeze this meatloaf?
A5: Yes, the meatloaf can be frozen before or after baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Conclusion

BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is a delightful twist on a classic dish that’s sure to satisfy your comfort food cravings. The combination of ground beef, crispy bacon, and melted cheddar cheese creates a rich and savory meatloaf that’s perfectly complemented by a tangy BBQ glaze. Whether you’re enjoying it fresh out of the oven or as leftovers the next day, this meatloaf is packed with flavor and sure to become a family favorite. The recipe is straightforward, making it accessible even for beginner cooks, yet the result is a dish that feels special enough for any occasion. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy the warm, comforting flavors that bring a taste of the BBQ right into your kitchen. With its hearty texture and robust taste, this BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is more than just a meal—it’s an experience that brings the best of both burgers and meatloaf into one delicious bite.

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