Description
Hearty bacon cheeseburger meatloaf combines classic comfort with bold flavors, delivering a mouthwatering twist on traditional dinner fare. Meat lovers will savor this satisfying blend of ground beef, crispy bacon, and melted cheese that promises to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
Scale
Proteins:
- 1.5 pounds (680 grams) ground beef (80/20 for juiciness)
- 0.5 pounds (227 grams) ground pork (optional, adds tenderness)
- 8–10 slices bacon
Binders and Flavor Enhancers:
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 0.5 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 teaspoon mustard (yellow or Dijon)
- 1.5 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
Seasonings and Glaze:
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon paprika
- 0.25 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for tang)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and non-stick surface.
- Create a moisture-enhancing mixture by combining breadcrumbs and milk in a small bowl, allowing the breadcrumbs to absorb the liquid for 5 minutes to ensure a tender meatloaf texture.
- In a spacious mixing bowl, blend ground beef, ground pork, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, mustard, salt, ground black pepper, and paprika to develop a rich, complex flavor profile.
- Incorporate the softened breadcrumbs into the meat mixture, gently folding in shredded cheese to distribute evenly and create pockets of melty goodness throughout the meatloaf.
- Transfer the seasoned meat mixture to the prepared baking sheet, shaping it into a uniform loaf with slightly rounded edges to promote even cooking.
- Layer crispy bacon strips across the top of the meatloaf, allowing the fat to render and infuse the meat with additional smoky flavor during baking.
- Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the bacon turns golden and crisp.
- Remove from the oven and let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes, allowing the juices to redistribute and ensure a moist, cohesive texture when sliced.
- Carefully transfer the meatloaf to a serving platter, garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and slice into hearty portions for a satisfying meal.
Notes
- Boost moisture by using a blend of ground meats, which adds rich flavor and prevents dryness.
- Enhance texture by soaking breadcrumbs in milk, creating a more tender and juicy meatloaf.
- Prevent crumbly results by gently mixing ingredients and avoiding over-handling the meat mixture.
- Customize for dietary needs by substituting ground turkey or plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter version.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Dinner, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 482
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 827 mg
- Fat: 32 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 24 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 105 mg