There's nothing quite like the comfort of a classic meatloaf – unless you elevate it with the smoky, savory flavors of a bacon cheeseburger. Imagine juicy ground beef, crispy bacon, melty cheese, and a tangy glaze baked into one irresistible dish.

I first discovered this recipe while trying to combine my love for burgers and hearty meatloaf, and let me tell you – it's been a hit at every family gathering since. Ready to create your new favorite comfort food? Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Prepare to fall head over heels for this dish. It's like your favorite burger, but with all the comforting qualities of a traditional meatloaf.

Incredibly Flavorful: This meatloaf is packed with all the best burger ingredients, from crispy bacon to a gooey cheese center.
Family-Friendly: Even the pickiest eaters can’t resist the familiar, comforting taste of a bacon cheeseburger.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for meal prep, this meatloaf can be assembled in advance and baked when you’re ready to eat.
Easy to Customize: Love mushrooms or want to add a spicy kick? This recipe welcomes all your favorite burger toppings.

Whether you're hosting a casual dinner or meal prepping for the week, this bacon cheeseburger meatloaf delivers on every level.

Ingredients Notes

This recipe uses a handful of simple, familiar ingredients to create its standout flavor. Each component works together to bring the bacon cheeseburger magic to life.

Ground Beef: The foundation of the meatloaf. Opt for an 80/20 blend for a balance of flavor and juiciness.
Bacon: Adds smoky, crispy bites throughout the loaf. Cook it partially before incorporating for the best texture.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar melts beautifully into the meatloaf, giving you that classic cheeseburger taste.
Breadcrumbs: These hold the meatloaf together. Use plain or seasoned breadcrumbs, depending on your flavor preference.
Eggs: Essential for binding the ingredients together.
Ketchup and Mustard: Combined, they give the meatloaf its signature tangy glaze reminiscent of a classic burger topping.
Onions: Dice them finely to avoid large chunks and ensure even distribution throughout the meatloaf.
Pickles (optional): For an extra burger-inspired twist, add chopped dill pickles to the mix or as a garnish.

Special Equipment

You’ll need a loaf pan or a rimmed baking sheet to shape and bake your meatloaf. A meat thermometer is also handy to ensure perfect doneness.

How To Make Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Creating this flavorful masterpiece is easier than you might think. Here’s how to make it step by step:

Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a loaf pan with non-stick spray or parchment paper for easy removal.
Cook the Bacon: Partially cook 6-8 slices of bacon until just crispy. Drain on paper towels and chop into small pieces. Set aside.
Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large bowl, combine 2 pounds of ground beef, 1 cup of breadcrumbs, 2 large eggs, ½ cup diced onion, and the chopped bacon. Add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, 2 tablespoons ketchup, and 1 tablespoon mustard. Mix until evenly combined.
Shape and Fill: Press half the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan. Create a small trench in the center and fill with additional cheddar cheese (about ½ cup). Cover with the remaining meat mixture and smooth the top.
Add the Glaze: Mix ¼ cup ketchup and 1 tablespoon mustard in a small bowl. Spread this glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
Bake: Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).

Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps it hold its shape and locks in the juices.

Storage Options

Bacon cheeseburger meatloaf stores beautifully, making it ideal for leftovers or meal prep.

Refrigerator: Store slices in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave in 30-second intervals or in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes.

Pro Tip: To maintain moisture, cover the slices with foil or add a splash of water when reheating.

Variations and Substitutions

This meatloaf is a blank canvas for creativity. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:

Swap the Cheese: Try pepper jack for a spicy twist or mozzarella for extra gooeyness.
Go Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
Add Veggies: Sneak in grated zucchini or carrots for extra nutrients without compromising flavor.
Spice It Up: Mix in diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for some heat.
Low Carb Option: Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds.

Experimenting with different ingredients makes this meatloaf as versatile as your favorite burger joint menu.