Hey y’all! If you’re craving a scrumptious, hearty dish that’s a delightful twist on classic comfort food, look no further than this Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf. Packed with gooey cheese, crispy bacon, and a hint of all your favorite burger toppings, it’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any time you need a satisfying meal. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This
- Combines the beloved flavors of a bacon cheeseburger into a comforting meatloaf.
- Easy to prepare and a sure crowd-pleaser for any gathering.
- Customizable with your favorite toppings and seasonings.
- Makes excellent leftovers that taste even better the next day.
- Perfect for both meatloaf lovers and burger enthusiasts.
Ingredients List
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1/2 cup diced pickles
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 6 slices of bacon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
Prepare the Mixture
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, cheese, onions, pickles, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
Form the Meatloaf
Place the mixture into a loaf pan or shape it by hand on a lined baking sheet. Lay the bacon strips over the top, tucking the ends underneath.
Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the meatloaf for 50-60 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Notes
- For a more pronounced flavor, consider using smoked bacon. Check out this guide on making smoked bacon.
- If you prefer a sweeter note, add a tablespoon of brown sugar to the mixture.
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños and pepper jack cheese for heat lovers.
- Italian Style: Incorporate Italian seasoning and mozzarella cheese.
- BBQ Twist: Substitute Worcestershire sauce with your favorite BBQ sauce.
Required Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Loaf pan or baking sheet
- Oven
Storage Instructions
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Suggested Pairings
Serve this Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf with mashed potatoes, a fresh garden salad, or classic coleslaw. For a refreshing beverage, try a cold glass of iced tea or a light beer.
Pro Tips
- Let the meatloaf rest before slicing to retain its juices. Learn more about resting meat.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure it cooks perfectly, without drying out.
- Chop ingredients evenly to ensure consistent cooking and flavor distribution.
FAQ
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef? Yes, ground turkey is a leaner option that works well, but the cooking time may vary slightly.
How do I make it gluten-free? Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
Can I prepare this ahead of time? Absolutely, you can assemble the meatloaf a day in advance, refrigerate it, and bake it the next day.