Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

This bacon cheeseburger meatloaf transforms two beloved American classics into one deliciously comforting dish. I created this recipe when my family couldn't decide between burgers or meatloaf for dinner, and it's been a requested favorite ever since.

The first time I served this to my teenagers, they actually put their phones down and asked for seconds. Now it makes an appearance at nearly every family gathering, and the leftovers disappear faster than I can save some for lunch the next day.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup dill pickle relish: Drained; adds that classic burger tang that makes this taste authentic
• 2 pounds lean ground beef: Use 85/15 for the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness
• 1/4 cup crispy fried onions: Brings texture and concentrated onion flavor without the tears
• 2 eggs: Provide necessary binding so your loaf holds together
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs: Lighter and airier than regular breadcrumbs for a less dense loaf
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce: Umami flavor enhancer that makes beef taste beefier
• 1 tsp smoke flavor: Gives that backyard grilled burger essence even when baked indoors
• 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese: Diced; large enough chunks create pockets of melty goodness
• 16 slices uncooked bacon: Look for thick cut for best results

Glaze

• 1/2 cup ketchup: The classic burger condiment creates a tangy crust
• 1 tbsp maple syrup: Adds caramelization and balances acidity
• 1 tsp sriracha: Optional but adds a gentle heat that complements the other flavors

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep Your Oven:

Heat your oven to 350°F ensuring it reaches full temperature before baking. This moderate heat allows the meatloaf to cook through while developing flavor without burning the bacon.

Prepare The Relish:

Drain the excess liquid from your dill pickle relish by pressing it gently in a fine mesh strainer. Too much moisture will make your meatloaf soggy. I like to pat it with a paper towel for extra insurance.

Mix The Base:

In a large bowl combine all your meatloaf base ingredients except the cheese and most of the bacon. Use clean hands to mix just until combined. Overmixing will result in a tough dense texture so be gentle and stop once ingredients are evenly distributed.

Add The Bacon Bits:

Take 6 strips of your bacon and use kitchen scissors to cut them into small pieces. Fold these bacon bits gently into your meatloaf mixture distributing them evenly throughout. This ensures bacon flavor in every bite not just on top.

Incorporate The Cheese:

Add your diced cheddar cheese to the mixture folding it in with minimal mixing. Keeping the cheese in larger chunks rather than shredded means you get delicious pockets of melted cheese throughout the finished loaf.

Shape Your Loaf:

Transfer your mixture to a foil lined baking sheet or 9x13 pan and shape it into a loaf about 5 inches wide and 2 inches high. Leaving space around the edges allows the fat to render away from the meatloaf.

Wrap With Bacon:

Arrange your remaining bacon strips over the top working from one end to the other slightly overlapping each slice. Tuck the ends underneath the loaf if possible for a neater presentation.

Initial Bake:

Place your meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. The bacon will begin to crisp and render its fat basting the meatloaf as it cooks. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer looking for 160°F.

Prepare And Apply Glaze:

While the meatloaf bakes whisk together ketchup maple syrup and optional sriracha in a small bowl. When the meatloaf reaches temperature brush this glaze generously over the entire top and sides.

Final Bake:

Return the glazed meatloaf to the oven for 5 to 10 minutes until the glaze becomes sticky and slightly caramelized. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.

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You Must Know

The smoke flavor is my secret weapon in this recipe. I discovered it after trying to recreate that outdoor grilled taste during a particularly harsh winter when grilling was impossible. My husband actually asked if I had somehow grilled the meatloaf in the snow. That little bottle has earned its place in my pantry ever since.

Make Ahead Options

This meatloaf is perfect for meal planning. You can prepare the entire meatloaf up to the baking step wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook simply unwrap add 10 minutes to your baking time to account for the cold temperature. The flavors actually develop beautifully during this rest which makes this a great option for busy weeknights.

Serving Suggestions

Embrace the burger theme by serving this meatloaf with all your favorite burger sides. Crispy oven baked fries coleslaw or a simple green salad all complement it beautifully. For a fun presentation serve slices on brioche buns with extra pickles lettuce and tomato for meatloaf burgers. My kids love when I set up a meatloaf burger bar where everyone can customize their own plate.

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Ingredient Substitutions

This recipe welcomes adaptations based on your preferences. Ground turkey can replace beef for a lighter version though I recommend adding a tablespoon of olive oil to maintain moisture. Lactose intolerant guests can enjoy this with dairy-free cheese alternatives which melt surprisingly well. The pickle relish can be swapped for finely chopped pickles or even sauerkraut for a different flavor profile. Every variation has been a hit at my table.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute sharp cheddar with other cheeses like Swiss, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a spicy twist.

→ How do I prevent my meatloaf from becoming dry?

Ensure you don’t overmix the meatloaf ingredients and use the correct amounts of eggs and breadcrumbs to maintain moisture.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Definitely! Prepare the meatloaf mixture and shape it into a loaf. Wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

→ Can I make this meatloaf without bacon?

Yes, though bacon adds flavor, you can omit it and enhance the taste with additional seasoning or smoked paprika.

→ What sides pair well with this meatloaf?

Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad make excellent sides for this hearty meatloaf.

→ Can I freeze this meatloaf?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked or baked meatloaf. If freezing unbaked, thaw in the refrigerator before baking.