Discover the Ultimate Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe You’ll Love!

Cheeseburger meatloaf is the ultimate comfort food mashup, combining the savory flavors of a classic cheeseburger with the hearty, satisfying texture of homemade meatloaf. This irresistible dish takes the best of both worlds and transforms it into a family-friendly meal that’s sure to become a new household favorite. With a blend of juicy ground beef, melted cheddar, and crispy bacon, each bite of cheeseburger meatloaf delivers a burst of flavor that’s hard to resist.

Table of Contents

Indredients for Cheeseburger Meatloaf

• 1.5 lb ground beef
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup cooked bacon, chopped
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tbsp yellow mustard
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

The combination of ground beef, cheddar cheese, and bacon creates the quintessential cheeseburger flavor profile in this meatloaf recipe. The eggs and breadcrumbs help to bind the mixture together, while the onion, ketchup, mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper add depth of flavor. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in transforming this dish into a satisfying, family-pleasing meal.

How to Make Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Preheat Oven: To 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or grease a loaf pan.

Mix Meatloaf Base: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, onion, eggs, breadcrumbs, 1 cup cheddar, ketchup, mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix just until combined, being careful not to overmix.

Shape Loaf: Form the meatloaf mixture into a loaf shape on the prepared baking sheet or press it into a loaf pan.

Bake: Bake the cheeseburger meatloaf uncovered for 45 minutes.

Add Toppings: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and top it with the remaining cheddar slices and chopped bacon.

Finish Baking: Return the meatloaf to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Rest and Serve: Let the cheeseburger meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips for Perfect Cheeseburger Meatloaf

To ensure your cheeseburger meatloaf turns out perfectly, be sure to mix the ingredients just until they’re combined, without overworking the meat. This will help prevent the meatloaf from becoming dense or tough. Additionally, letting the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing is crucial, as it allows the flavors to meld and the loaf to firm up for easy slicing.

For the best accompaniment, serve the cheeseburger meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad. The rich, savory flavors of the meatloaf pair beautifully with these classic side dishes. If you have any leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or frozen for longer-term storage.

Variations and Customizations

While the classic cheeseburger meatloaf is hard to beat, you can easily customize the recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs. For a lighter version, try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. Vegetarians can swap in plant-based ground meat for a delicious meatless option.

To add a spicy kick, stir in some diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce. Experiment with different cheese varieties, such as pepper jack or Swiss, for a unique twist. You can also get creative with the toppings, incorporating ingredients like sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, or pickled relish.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Cheeseburger meatloaf pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Creamy mashed potatoes or roasted garlic potatoes make a perfect complement to the rich, savory flavors of the meatloaf. A fresh, crisp salad or steamed vegetables can also help balance out the meal.

For a delightful beverage pairing, consider a robust red wine or a cold, refreshing beer. The bold flavors of the cheeseburger meatloaf can stand up to the bold, complex notes of a Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot. Alternatively, a light, hoppy pale ale or an IPA can provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty dish.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Cheesy Beef and Bacon Burgers
• Bacon Cheeseburger Stuffed Peppers
• Loaded Cheeseburger Casserole

FAQs About Cheeseburger Meatloaf

How can I adjust the recipe for a smaller or larger serving?

To adjust the cheeseburger meatloaf recipe for smaller or larger servings, you can scale the ingredients proportionally. For a smaller loaf, reduce each ingredient by half or make mini meatloaves using a muffin tin. For a larger loaf, simply double the amounts. Keep in mind that baking time may vary; smaller loaves will cook faster while larger ones may need additional time. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C) for safety.

What’s the best way to reheat leftover cheeseburger meatloaf?

The best way to reheat leftover cheeseburger meatloaf is in the oven to preserve its texture. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the meatloaf in a baking dish, and cover it with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat individual slices in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, but be cautious not to overheat, as this can make the meatloaf tough.

Can I add vegetables to the cheeseburger meatloaf for extra nutrition?

Yes, you can add vegetables to your cheeseburger meatloaf for added nutrition and flavor. Finely chopped vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots can be mixed into the meatloaf base. Sautéing the vegetables beforehand can enhance their flavor and help reduce moisture in the meatloaf. Just be mindful of the overall moisture content, as too many veggies may affect the texture. Aim for about a cup of mixed vegetables for a well-balanced addition.

What are some creative serving ideas for cheeseburger meatloaf?

There are many creative ways to serve cheeseburger meatloaf! You can slice it and serve it on toasted hamburger buns with your favorite toppings like lettuce, tomato, and pickles for a meatloaf sandwich. Alternatively, cut it into cubes and skewer them with veggies for a fun appetizer. Serve the meatloaf over a bed of mashed potatoes topped with gravy, or alongside sweet potato fries for a comforting meal. Another idea is to crumble the meatloaf and use it as a topping for baked potatoes or as a filling for stuffed peppers.

Conclusion

Cheeseburger meatloaf is the ultimate comfort food mashup that’s sure to become a new family favorite. With its savory, cheesy, and bacon-y flavors, this dish delivers a satisfying and delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve it as the main course or get creative with the leftovers, cheeseburger meatloaf is a versatile and crowd-pleasing recipe that’s sure to delight your taste buds. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to indulge in the irresistible combination of a classic cheeseburger and homemade meatloaf!

Looking for more visual inspiration? Follow me on Pinterest, where I share new recipes, dinner tips, and behind-the-scenes kitchen moments every week. Buon appetito!

Print