Are you craving a dish that combines the rich, savory flavors of a classic cheeseburger with the cozy comfort of a meatloaf? Look no further than BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf! This recipe is an absolute winner, packed with tender ground beef, crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and a homemade BBQ glaze. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or any occasion where you want a hearty, satisfying meal. With just the right balance of savory, cheesy, and smoky flavors, this meatloaf will become your new favorite comfort food.

Let’s dive right into the details of this incredible recipe, from ingredients to directions, and even a few tips and tricks for the perfect meatloaf.

Ingredients for BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Before we start cooking, it’s important to gather all the ingredients for this flavorful dish. Fortunately, you likely already have most of these ingredients in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need to make BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf:

1 ½ lbs ground beef – This is the main protein base of the dish. Ground beef is the best choice for meatloaf because of its rich flavor and juicy texture. Feel free to use lean beef for a lighter version, but a bit of fat will help keep the meatloaf moist and tender.
8 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled – Bacon adds a delicious smoky flavor and crunchy texture to this meatloaf. You can adjust the amount depending on how much bacon flavor you like.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – The cheddar cheese melts into the meatloaf, adding creaminess and a sharp, tangy flavor that complements the richness of the beef and bacon.
1 small onion, finely chopped – Onions provide a mild sweetness and depth of flavor to the meatloaf. They also enhance the savory elements of the dish.
1/4 cup milk – Milk helps to moisten the meatloaf mixture and keeps it from becoming dry during baking.
1 large egg – The egg binds the ingredients together and helps the meatloaf hold its shape.
1/2 cup breadcrumbs – Breadcrumbs act as a binder and absorb the moisture in the meatloaf, keeping it from being too dense.
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – This sauce adds a rich umami flavor that elevates the savory profile of the meatloaf.
1 teaspoon garlic powder – Garlic powder gives the meatloaf a boost of flavor without the need for fresh garlic.
1 teaspoon onion powder – Onion powder complements the flavor of the fresh onions and enhances the overall seasoning of the meatloaf.
Salt and pepper, to taste – Essential seasonings to balance the flavors and bring everything together.

For the BBQ Sauce:

1/2 cup barbecue sauce – Use your favorite BBQ sauce for the glaze. Choose one with a flavor you enjoy, whether it’s sweet, smoky, or tangy.
2 tablespoons ketchup – Ketchup adds a touch of sweetness and tang to the BBQ sauce, making it perfect for glazing the meatloaf.
1 tablespoon brown sugar – Brown sugar enhances the sweetness of the BBQ sauce and gives it a slightly caramelized flavor when baked.

Now that we have everything ready, let’s jump into the cooking process!

How to Make BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Making this BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is surprisingly easy, and the results are absolutely delicious. Follow these simple steps to create a mouthwatering meatloaf that will have everyone asking for seconds.

1. Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your meatloaf will cook evenly and come out perfectly browned on the outside while remaining juicy on the inside. It’s also a good idea to line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

2. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the main ingredients for the meatloaf. Start by adding the ground beef to the bowl. Then, add the crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped onion. These ingredients will form the base of your meatloaf and give it a rich, savory flavor.

Next, pour in the milk and add the egg, which will help bind the ingredients together. Sprinkle in the breadcrumbs, which will absorb moisture and keep the meatloaf from becoming too dense. Add the Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder to the bowl. These seasonings will give your meatloaf a complex, umami-packed flavor. Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste. Be sure to mix everything together until it’s just combined over-mixing can lead to a tough meatloaf, so keep it gentle.

3. Form the Meatloaf

Once the meat mixture is ready, transfer it to your prepared baking sheet or loaf pan. Use your hands to shape the meat into a loaf, pressing it gently to ensure it holds together. If you’re using a loaf pan, be sure to shape the meatloaf to fit snugly. This will help it cook evenly and keep its shape.

4. Make the BBQ Sauce

In a small bowl, combine the barbecue sauce, ketchup, and brown sugar. Stir everything together until the sauce is smooth and well combined. This BBQ sauce will be used to glaze the meatloaf, adding a sweet, tangy, and smoky layer of flavor that enhances the meat’s natural richness.

5. Glaze the Meatloaf

Once your meatloaf is shaped, pour the BBQ sauce mixture over the top, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Be sure to coat the entire surface of the meatloaf for a nice, flavorful glaze. This step is key to giving the meatloaf its signature BBQ flavor and slightly caramelized exterior.

6. Bake the Meatloaf

Place your meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). The meatloaf should be cooked through, with a golden brown, slightly sticky BBQ glaze on top. If you prefer a crispy, caramelized top, you can broil the meatloaf for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking just keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.

7. Serve and Enjoy

Once the meatloaf is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meatloaf, ensuring it stays juicy and tender when you cut into it. Serve your BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf with extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping.

This dish is perfect for pairing with a variety of sides, from roasted vegetables to mashed potatoes or even a simple salad. It’s the kind of comfort food that will have everyone coming back for more!

Nutritional Information

For those keeping an eye on the nutritional value, here’s the breakdown for each serving of BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf:

Calories: 450 kcal per serving
Servings: 6 servings

This hearty dish provides a good balance of protein, fats, and flavors, making it a satisfying meal for any time of the week.

Serving Suggestions

Looking for the perfect sides to go with your BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf? Here are some great options:

Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, potatoes, and green beans make a delicious and colorful accompaniment.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are always a hit and pair wonderfully with the savory meatloaf.
Coleslaw: A tangy, crunchy coleslaw will add a refreshing contrast to the rich meatloaf.
Mac and Cheese: If you’re craving comfort food, mac and cheese is the ultimate pairing with this meatloaf.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet, buttery corn adds a nice touch of flavor to balance the savory elements of the meatloaf.

For beverages, an iced tea, lemonade, or sparkling water will complement the dish perfectly.

Variations and Customizations

This recipe is highly customizable to suit your tastes. Here are a few ideas for switching things up:

Cheese Options: While cheddar cheese is classic, feel free to swap it for other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Swiss, or Pepper Jack for added flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add some jalapeños or hot sauce to the BBQ glaze for an extra spicy kick.
Add Veggies: Mix in some finely chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the meat mixture for extra veggies and flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf turns out perfectly, here are a few tips to avoid common mistakes:

Overmixing the meat mixture: Be careful not to overmix the ingredients, as this can make the meatloaf tough. Mix until just combined.
Not checking the internal temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf reaches 160°F (71°C) for food safety.
Skipping the resting time: Let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes after baking to keep it juicy and tender.

FAQs

Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture the night before and store it in the fridge. Just bake it the next day as directed.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! Leftover meatloaf can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Simply wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap before freezing.

Can I use a different type of meat?

If you prefer, you can substitute ground turkey or ground chicken for the beef. Just keep in mind that the texture and flavor may differ slightly.

Conclusion

This BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. With its juicy beef, crispy bacon, melty cheese, and sweet BBQ glaze, it’s a meal that hits all the right notes. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting a gathering, this meatloaf is sure to be a hit. Try it today and enjoy the delicious flavors of a classic cheeseburger in a whole new way!

For more fantastic recipes like this one, be sure to check out:

Enjoy this hearty, satisfying dish with your loved ones, and let the flavors take center stage!

BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf – A Comfort Food Favorite

Author: Amelia Sullivan
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Description

This BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is a delicious twist on the classic comfort food. Packed with savory ground beef, crispy bacon, melty cheddar cheese, and a tangy BBQ glaze, it’s the perfect meal for any occasion. This juicy meatloaf is sure to be a crowd-pleaser, offering smoky, cheesy goodness in every bite!

Ingredients

Scale

1 ½ lbs ground beef
8 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 small onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup milk
1 large egg
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the BBQ Sauce:

1/2 cup barbecue sauce
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon brown sugar

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.
Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped onion, milk, egg, breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
Form the Meatloaf: Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared loaf pan and shape it into a loaf.
Make the BBQ Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the barbecue sauce, ketchup, and brown sugar. Mix well.
Glaze the Meatloaf: Pour the BBQ sauce mixture over the meatloaf, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Serve: Slice and serve your BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf with extra BBQ sauce on the side. Enjoy!

Notes

For an extra smoky flavor, use a smoky barbecue sauce in the glaze.
You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey for a lighter version of this recipe.
If you prefer a firmer texture, add a bit more breadcrumbs to the meat mixture.
For a delicious twist, top the meatloaf with extra cheese during the last 5 minutes of baking.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 450 kcal
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 950mg
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 120mg

Keywords: BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf, bacon meatloaf, cheeseburger meatloaf, comfort food meatloaf, cheesy bacon meatloaf