BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Imagine combining the best elements of a cheeseburger into one hearty, comforting dish. That’s exactly what BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf offers. This recipe brings together the smoky sweetness of BBQ sauce, the savory goodness of bacon, and the melt-in-your-mouth richness of cheese, all packed into a juicy meatloaf. It’s a modern twist on the traditional meatloaf, designed to delight both meatloaf lovers and cheeseburger enthusiasts alike. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, offering familiar flavors in an exciting new form. The combination of ground beef, crispy bacon, and gooey cheese, all wrapped in a tangy BBQ glaze, makes every bite a flavor explosion. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and can be served with classic sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad. Whether you’re looking for comfort food or a crowd-pleasing meal, this BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 1 1/2 lbs ground beef (80% lean)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (plus more for topping)
• 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, chopped onion, shredded cheddar cheese, BBQ sauce, crumbled bacon, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until all ingredients are thoroughly combined, but do not overmix.
3. Shape the Meatloaf: Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan. Press it down to shape it into a loaf.
4. Bake the Meatloaf: Spread a thin layer of BBQ sauce on top of the meatloaf. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
5. Add Extra BBQ Sauce: In the last 10 minutes of baking, brush another layer of BBQ sauce over the top for extra flavor.
6. Let it Rest: Once baked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

How to Prepare

Start by preparing the meatloaf mixture with ground beef, breadcrumbs, and a mix of flavorful ingredients like BBQ sauce, cheese, and bacon. Be sure to mix everything gently to keep the meatloaf tender. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a prepared pan. The key to a moist meatloaf is not overcooking it, so keep an eye on the internal temperature, aiming for 160°F. During the last few minutes of baking, add an extra layer of BBQ sauce for a delicious, sticky glaze. Allow the meatloaf to rest before slicing to ensure it holds its shape and juices.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Servings

This recipe yields 6 servings.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
A1: Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner option. Adjust cooking time as turkey may cook faster.

Q2: What type of cheese works best?
A2: Cheddar is a great choice, but you can use any melty cheese like mozzarella or Monterey Jack.

Q3: Can I prepare this meatloaf in advance?
A3: Yes, you can assemble the meatloaf up to a day in advance. Keep it refrigerated until ready to bake.

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

Q5: Can I freeze this meatloaf?
A5: Yes, you can freeze the cooked meatloaf. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is the perfect dish for those who love the classic flavors of a cheeseburger but crave something a bit more comforting and hearty. The combination of smoky bacon, tangy BBQ sauce, and gooey cheese brings out the best in a traditional meatloaf, making it a dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. The preparation is straightforward, and the results are consistently delicious, whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week. With easy-to-find ingredients and a simple cooking process, this meatloaf is a winner every time. Try it once, and it will likely become a regular feature in your meal rotation. Pair it with your favorite sides, and you’ve got a satisfying meal that hits all the right notes.

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