I’m always on the hunt for comfort food that breaks the mold, and this Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf does exactly that. It combines everything we love about a juicy burger—seasoned beef, crispy bacon, melty cheese—all wrapped up in a convenient meatloaf package.
No need for buns or condiments, just pure flavor in every slice. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving those classic burger flavors without the fuss. And trust me, the aroma that fills your kitchen while it bakes? Absolutely irresistible.
Why You’ll Love this Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf
If you’re on the hunt for the ultimate comfort food mashup, this Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf will absolutely hit the spot.
I’m talking about all your favorite burger flavors transformed into a juicy, sliceable dinner that doesn’t require any grill.
The combination of crispy bacon, melted cheddar, and seasoned beef creates that classic cheeseburger taste without the buns.
Plus, it’s so versatile—perfect for busy weeknights or Sunday dinner with the family.
My favorite part? You can prep it ahead of time and just pop it in the oven when you’re ready.
Who needs drive-thru when you’ve got this waiting at home?
What Ingredients are in Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf?
This meatloaf combines all the flavors you’d find in your favorite drive-thru burger, but in a hearty, home-cooked form that’s perfect for dinner.
- 1½ pounds ground beef
- 8 bacon strips, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 2 eggs
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 tablespoon mustard
For the best flavor profile, make sure to use medium or high-fat ground beef (80/20 is ideal) rather than super lean varieties, which can make the meatloaf dry rather than juicy and burger-like.
How to Make this Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F while you gather all your ingredients.
This temperature is perfect for meatloaf—hot enough to cook it through while still keeping it juicy.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
Cook all 8 bacon strips until crispy, then crumble them into pieces.
Remember to set aside 2 strips worth of crumbles for the topping later—these will add that perfect crunchy finish.
Step 3: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture
In a large bowl, combine 1½ pounds of ground beef, 6 crumbled bacon strips, ¾ cup of shredded cheddar cheese, ½ cup breadcrumbs, ¼ cup ketchup, 2 eggs, 1 diced onion, and 1 tablespoon mustard.
Mix gently with your hands until just combined—overmixing can make the meatloaf tough.
Step 4: Form Your Meatloaf
Shape the meat mixture into a loaf form and place it in a baking dish.
For easier cleanup, you might want to line the dish with foil first, though it’s not required.
An enameled cast iron Dutch oven works wonderfully for baking meatloaf, providing even heat distribution and a non-stick surface.
Step 5: Initial Bake
Bake your meatloaf in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes.
This is when the magic happens—the flavors meld together while the meat cooks through.
Step 6: Add the Topping
After the initial baking time, take the meatloaf out and sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup of cheddar cheese and reserved bacon crumbles on top.
Who doesn’t love that extra cheesy, bacon-y goodness?
Step 7: Final Bake
Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and bubbly.
The internal temperature should reach 160°F for food safety.
Step 8: Optional Ketchup Glaze
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a ketchup glaze before the final bake.
Simply spread a thin layer of ketchup over the top before adding the cheese and bacon—it adds that classic burger-joint taste we all crave.
What to Serve with Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf
This hearty dinner superstar calls for sides that balance its rich, savory profile. Crispy oven fries or garlic mashed potatoes make perfect starchy companions—they’re practically required for soaking up any delicious meatloaf drippings.
A simple green salad with vinaigrette cuts through the richness beautifully, while steamed broccoli or roasted green beans add a nutritious element without competing for attention.
For something special, serve warm dinner rolls on the side, or whip up a quick burger sauce (mayo, ketchup, relish, and a dash of hot sauce) for dipping.
And to drink? An ice-cold cola or root beer completes the all-American diner experience right at your kitchen table.
Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Substitutions and Variations
• Toppings: Before serving, drizzle with burger sauce (mayo, ketchup, pickle relish) or top with crispy fried onions for extra crunch.
Leftovers and Storage for this Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf
This hearty meatloaf stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days when kept in an airtight container.
For longer storage, slice the cooled meatloaf before freezing individual portions wrapped in plastic and foil (they’ll keep for about 3 months).
When reheating, the microwave works in a pinch, but for that fresh-from-the-oven texture, place slices on a baking sheet and warm at 325°F for 10-15 minutes.
Add a splash of beef broth to prevent drying out, or top with a little extra cheese during reheating.
Want to know a secret? This meatloaf actually tastes even better the next day!
The flavors meld overnight, making leftovers something to look forward to.
Try cold slices between bread for a meatloaf sandwich that’ll make your lunch hour something special.
Final Thoughts
This Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf brilliantly transforms America’s favorite sandwich into a comforting dinner that brings everyone to the table.
The combination of smoky bacon, sharp cheddar, and classic burger seasonings creates something truly special—comfort food that feels both familiar and exciting.
It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknight dinners when you crave the flavors of a restaurant burger but need something that feeds the whole family with minimal fuss.
For those who enjoy ranch flavors, consider trying a chicken bacon ranch casserole that offers similar comfort food appeal with a different flavor profile.
Whether served with mashed potatoes or a simple salad, this meatloaf bridges the gap between special occasion cooking and everyday meals, becoming one of those recipes you’ll find yourself returning to season after season.