BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

If you’re a fan of cheeseburgers and meatloaf, then this BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is about to become your new favorite comfort food. This recipe takes the best elements of a classic cheeseburger—savory ground beef, crispy bacon, melted cheddar cheese, and tangy BBQ sauce—and transforms them into a mouthwatering meatloaf that’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. The result is a dish that’s hearty, flavorful, and guaranteed to please even the pickiest eaters. What makes this recipe truly special is the combination of textures and flavors: the juicy meatloaf, the gooey cheese, and the smoky sweetness of the BBQ sauce. Plus, it’s easy to make, requires minimal prep time, and bakes to perfection in your oven. Whether you’re serving it with mashed potatoes, a side salad, or even between two slices of bread, this BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is a surefire way to elevate your dinner game. Let’s dive into how you can bring this delicious dish to life in your kitchen.

---

Ingredients

• 1 ½ lbs ground beef
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup BBQ sauce (plus extra for topping)
• 2 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp mustard powder

---

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easier removal.
2. Cook Bacon: Cook the bacon in a skillet until crispy. Drain on paper towels and crumble when cool.
3. Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, shredded cheddar, crumbled bacon, chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, eggs, BBQ sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, mustard powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
4. Shape Meatloaf: Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared loaf pan, pressing it down evenly to form a loaf.
5. Add Topping: Spread an additional layer of BBQ sauce on top of the meatloaf.
6. Bake: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the meatloaf is fully cooked through and a meat thermometer reads 160°F (71°C) at the center.
7. Rest: Remove from the oven and let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps to retain the juices.
8. Serve: Slice and serve the meatloaf with your favorite sides.

---

How to Prepare

Start by cooking the bacon until it’s crispy, then crumble it into small pieces. This adds a delightful crunch to your meatloaf. Next, finely chop the onion and mince the garlic—these ingredients will add depth of flavor. Combine all the ingredients in a large bowl, mixing them thoroughly to ensure the cheese, bacon, and seasonings are evenly distributed. Press the mixture into a loaf pan, making sure it’s compact to prevent it from falling apart. Spread a generous layer of BBQ sauce on top, which will caramelize during baking, adding a sweet and smoky finish. After baking, let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute before slicing.

---

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45-55 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

---

Servings

• Yield: 6 servings

---

FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
   • Yes, ground turkey is a leaner option, but it may alter the flavor slightly. You might need to adjust cooking times as well.
2. What type of BBQ sauce works best?
   • A smoky or tangy BBQ sauce complements the flavors well, but feel free to use your favorite variety.
3. Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
   • Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture ahead of time, refrigerate it, and bake it when ready to serve.
4. How do I store leftovers?
   • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in the microwave or oven.
5. Can I freeze the meatloaf?
   • Yes, you can freeze the cooked meatloaf. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months.

---

Conclusion

BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is a delightful fusion of two beloved comfort foods, bringing together the best of both worlds. This dish is perfect for those nights when you crave something hearty, flavorful, and easy to prepare. The combination of smoky bacon, tangy BBQ sauce, and gooey cheddar cheese with the savory beef creates a meatloaf that’s not only delicious but also a hit with family and friends. Whether you’re looking to impress at a dinner party or just want to enjoy a satisfying meal at home, this recipe has you covered. Don’t forget to experiment with different BBQ sauces or add your own twist with spices and seasonings. Serve it with classic sides like mashed potatoes or a crisp green salad for a complete meal that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy the comforting flavors of this BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf and make it a regular feature in your dinner rotation.

Print