Introduction
Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is a hearty, flavor-packed twist on a classic comfort food. Combining all the savory goodness of a cheeseburger with smoky bacon and a tender meatloaf base, this dish is perfect for family dinners or whenever you crave indulgent home cooking without the fuss of making burgers individually.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Meatloaf has roots in European peasant cooking, where ground meats and pantry staples were stretched to feed families. In America, meatloaf became a mid-20th-century staple, often served with mashed potatoes and vegetables. This bacon cheeseburger variation blends traditional American diner flavors—cheese, bacon, and beef—showing how classic comfort foods evolve to suit modern cravings.
Ingredients Quantity
- 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- ½ cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 6 slices bacon
- ½ cup ketchup (for topping)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Optional Additions
- ½ cup diced pickles or relish in the meat mixture
- ½ teaspoon mustard for a tangy bite
- Sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for added flavor
- Sprinkle of shredded mozzarella along with cheddar for extra cheesiness
Tips for Success
- Use a mix of breadcrumbs and milk to keep the meatloaf tender.
- Don’t overmix the meat to avoid a dense texture.
- Lay the bacon in a lattice pattern for even cooking and presentation.
- Let the meatloaf rest 10 minutes before slicing to retain juices.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking dish with parchment or foil.
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix gently until just combined.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place in the prepared dish.
- Lay the cheddar slices over the top of the loaf.
- Arrange bacon slices in a lattice pattern over the cheese.
- Spread ketchup over the bacon if desired for a glaze.
- Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Let rest for 10 minutes, then slice and serve.
Description
This Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is tender, juicy, and bursting with savory flavor. The bacon adds smokiness, the cheese brings creamy richness, and the beef base is perfectly seasoned. It’s a meal that combines the best parts of burgers and meatloaf into one comforting dish.
Nutritional Information (Approx. Per Serving, 8 Servings)
- Calories: 420
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 32g
Conclusion
Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf elevates traditional meatloaf to a new level of indulgence while remaining approachable for home cooks. It’s a surefire way to impress family or guests without complicated techniques.
Recommendation
Serve with classic sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad. Leftovers can be sliced for sandwiches or reheated for another delicious meal.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
While rich and hearty, this dish delivers protein and satisfying flavors that nourish both body and soul. Enjoy it mindfully, savoring the balance of smoky bacon, melty cheese, and seasoned beef, making indulgence a joyful, guilt-free experience.