Bacon Cheeseburger Loaf
A comforting twist on two classics, this savory meatloaf is packed with crispy bacon, melted cheddar, and all the flavors of your favorite cheeseburger – all in one easy-to-slice loaf.
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
· 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
· 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
· 2 large eggs, beaten
· 1 small onion, finely diced
· 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
· 2 teaspoons garlic powder
· 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
· 1 teaspoon salt
· ½ teaspoon black pepper
· 6 slices bacon, cooked until crisp and crumbled
· 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
· ¼ cup chopped dill pickles
For the Glaze:
· ½ cup ketchup
· 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
· 2 tablespoons brown sugar
· 1 tablespoon pickle juice (from the jar)
Optional Toppings:
· Extra shredded cheddar
· Additional cooked bacon crumbles
· Sliced pickles
· Sesame seeds
Instructions
1. Prepare the Oven and Pan
· Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
· Line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on the sides for easy removal, or lightly grease the pan.
2. Mix the Meatloaf
· In a large bowl, combine ground beef, panko, eggs, onion, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands or a fork until just combined—do not overmix.
· Fold in half of the crumbled bacon, ½ cup of the shredded cheddar, and the chopped pickles.
3. Assemble the Loaf
· Place half of the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan and press down evenly.
· Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup shredded cheddar and the rest of the crumbled bacon down the center of the loaf, leaving about a 1-inch border around the edges.
· Top with the remaining meat mixture, pressing down to seal the edges and encase the cheese and bacon filling.
· Smooth the top.
4. Make and Apply the Glaze
· In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, mustard, brown sugar, and pickle juice until smooth.
· Spread about two-thirds of the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
5. Bake
· Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
· Remove from oven and carefully spread the remaining glaze over the top.
· If desired, sprinkle with extra shredded cheddar and return to the oven for 3–5 minutes, until cheese is melted.
· Let the loaf rest in the pan for 10–15 minutes before using the parchment paper to lift it out onto a cutting board.
6. Serve
· Slice into thick pieces.
· Garnish with extra bacon crumbles, sliced pickles, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds if desired.
· Serve with classic burger sides: oven fries, coleslaw, or a simple green salad.
Tips for Success
· Avoid overmixing the meat to keep the loaf tender.
· Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness.
· Let it rest before slicing to keep the juices inside and the loaf from falling apart.
· For a smoky twist, add a few drops of liquid smoke to the meat mixture.
This Bacon Cheeseburger Loaf brings the joy of a cheeseburger into a hearty, family-friendly meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Enjoy!