Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Remix

What happens when you take all the bold, savory flavors of a bacon cheeseburger and transform them into a tender, juicy meatloaf? You get this Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Remix—a mouthwatering dish packed with crispy bacon, melted cheddar cheese, and a smoky, tangy glaze that takes it over the top.

This is not your average meatloaf—it’s juicy, cheesy, and packed with smoky goodness, giving you all the satisfaction of a classic cheeseburger in a comforting, sliceable form. Whether you’re serving it for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or a crowd-pleasing Sunday supper, this meatloaf will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Juicy & Flavorful – Bacon and cheddar add extra moisture and richness.
• Easy to Make – Simple ingredients, big flavors, and minimal prep time.
• Family Favorite – A fun twist on meatloaf that even picky eaters will love.
• Perfect for Leftovers – Tastes even better the next day, making it great for meal prep.

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 1½ lbs ground beef (80/20 for best juiciness)
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers)
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 egg, beaten
• ¼ cup mayonnaise (for extra juiciness)
• 2 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tbsp yellow mustard
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp smoked paprika

For the Glaze:

• ¼ cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp barbecue sauce
• 1 tbsp yellow mustard
• 1 tbsp brown sugar

Optional Add-Ins & Toppings:

• ¼ cup chopped pickles (for a real cheeseburger flavor!)
• 1 tsp hot sauce (for a spicy kick)
• ½ tsp liquid smoke (for extra smoky flavor)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prepare

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

1. Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy.
2. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain, then crumble into small pieces.

Step 3: Mix the Meatloaf

1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, crumbled bacon, cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and paprika.
2. Mix gently with your hands until everything is evenly combined—be careful not to overmix!

Step 4: Shape & Bake

1. Shape the mixture into a loaf shape and place it on the prepared baking sheet or in a loaf pan.
2. Bake for 40 minutes uncovered.

Step 5: Add the Glaze & Finish Baking

1. In a small bowl, mix ketchup, barbecue sauce, mustard, and brown sugar.
2. Remove the meatloaf from the oven and brush the glaze generously over the top.
3. Return to the oven and bake for another 15–20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

Step 6: Rest & Serve

1. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing—this helps keep it juicy.
2. Serve warm with your favorite sides and enjoy!

Notes

• Don’t overmix the meat! Overworking the mixture can make the meatloaf dense and tough.
• Let it rest before slicing. This keeps the juices inside, preventing a dry meatloaf.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temp reaches 160°F (71°C) for food safety.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 55 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: High-Protein
• Keywords: cheeseburger meatloaf, bacon meatloaf, cheesy meatloaf, comfort food

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Loaf pan or baking sheet
• Skillet (for cooking bacon)
• Small bowl (for glaze)
• Basting brush (for glazing)
• Meat thermometer

Helpful Tips for the Best Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Remix

Want to make sure your Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf turns out juicy, flavorful, and perfectly cheesy? Follow these expert tips to avoid common meatloaf mistakes and take it to the next level!

1. Use the Right Ground Beef for the Best Texture

• 80/20 ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat) is ideal—it keeps the meatloaf juicy and flavorful without being greasy.
• If using leaner meat (90/10 or turkey), add extra fat like mayo, cheese, or a splash of milk to prevent dryness.

2. Don’t Overmix the Meat

• Overmixing compacts the meat and leads to a tough, dense texture.
• Gently mix the ingredients just until combined—it’s okay if it looks a little loose!

3. Precook the Bacon for Maximum Flavor

• Cooking the bacon before adding it to the meat mixture ensures it’s crispy and evenly distributed.
• If you want an even smokier flavor, use thick-cut bacon or peppered bacon.

4. Let the Meatloaf Rest Before Slicing

• After baking, let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before cutting into it. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping it moist and tender.

5. Use a Meat Thermometer for Perfect Doneness

• The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) for beef or 165°F (74°C) for turkey.
• This prevents undercooking or overcooking, keeping your meatloaf perfectly juicy.

6. Bake on a Sheet Pan for Crispy Edges

• Instead of using a loaf pan, shape the meatloaf free-form on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
• This allows the fat to drain away and creates delicious crispy edges all around.

7. Glaze in Two Steps for a Caramelized Finish

• Apply the first layer of glaze halfway through baking so it soaks in.
• Add the second layer in the last 10 minutes for a glossy, caramelized topping.

8. Broil for Extra Crispiness

• If you love a crispy, caramelized glaze, broil the meatloaf for 2–3 minutes at the end.
• Keep a close eye to prevent burning!

9. Customize the Cheese for Different Flavors

• Cheddar is classic, but try:
  • Pepper Jack (spicy kick)
  • Smoked Gouda (rich, smoky flavor)
  • Swiss (mild and melty)
• Mix some cheese inside the meat and sprinkle extra on top!

10. Serve It Like a Real Cheeseburger!

• Slice and serve on toasted brioche buns with pickles, lettuce, and burger sauce.
• Pair with fries, onion rings, or a simple salad for the full cheeseburger experience.

Conservation and Storage

Proper storage ensures your Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Remix stays juicy, flavorful, and ready to enjoy later. Whether you’re refrigerating leftovers, freezing for meal prep, or reheating for a quick meal, follow these tips for the best results.

1. Storing Leftovers in the Refrigerator

• Allow the meatloaf to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap tightly in foil, plastic wrap, or place in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Tip: Keep extra glaze in a small container to brush on before reheating for fresh flavor.

2. Freezing for Longer Storage

You can freeze the meatloaf either before or after cooking for easy meal prep.

Freezing Uncooked Meatloaf

• Shape the meatloaf and wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil or store in a freezer-safe bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• When ready to cook, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

Freezing Cooked Meatloaf

• Slice into individual portions and wrap each slice in plastic wrap before placing in a freezer bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• For best results, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

3. Best Ways to Reheat Meatloaf

Oven (Best for Keeping it Moist)

• Preheat to 300°F (150°C).
• Place meatloaf slices in a baking dish and cover with foil.
• Heat for 10–15 minutes, or until warmed through.
• For extra crispiness, remove foil for the last 5 minutes or broil for 2 minutes.

Stovetop (Quick and Easy)

• Heat a nonstick pan over medium-low heat with a little butter or oil.
• Sauté slices for 2–3 minutes per side, covering the pan to trap moisture.

Microwave (Fastest, But Less Ideal)

• Place a meatloaf slice on a microwave-safe plate.
• Cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying.
• Heat in 30-second intervals, checking for doneness.

4. Avoid Freezing Feta Cheese

If possible, add fresh feta after reheating instead of freezing it with the meatloaf. Freezing can cause feta to become crumbly and lose its creamy texture.

Substitutions and Variations

This Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Remix is super customizable, so you can tweak it to fit your taste, dietary needs, or ingredient availability. Whether you want to make it lighter, spicier, or even vegetarian, here are some creative ways to switch it up while keeping all the delicious, juicy flavors!

1. Protein Swaps

• Ground Turkey or Chicken – For a leaner version, swap beef for ground turkey or chicken. Since they have less fat, add an extra tablespoon of mayo or a splash of milk to keep it moist.
• Ground Pork or Sausage – Mix in ½ lb of ground pork or sausage for extra richness and juiciness.
• Plant-Based Alternative – Use Beyond Meat, Impossible Beef, or lentils and mushrooms for a vegetarian take. Replace bacon with smoked tempeh or coconut bacon for that smoky bite.

2. Cheese Variations

• Spicy Kick: Swap cheddar for Pepper Jack or habanero cheese.
• Extra Creamy: Use American cheese or Velveeta for a classic cheeseburger melt.
• Gourmet Flavor: Try Smoked Gouda, Swiss, or Gruyère for a deeper, nuttier taste.
• Dairy-Free: Use a vegan cheddar-style cheese or skip the cheese altogether.

3. Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly Adjustments

• Breadcrumb Swap: Use crushed pork rinds, almond flour, or flax meal instead of breadcrumbs.
• Sugar-Free Glaze: Replace ketchup and BBQ sauce with sugar-free versions, or use a mix of tomato paste, apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of erythritol.

4. Gluten-Free Modifications

• Swap breadcrumbs for gluten-free panko or crushed gluten-free crackers.
• Double-check that your BBQ sauce, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce are gluten-free.

5. Spice It Up!

• Add ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper or chili flakes for extra heat.
• Mix in 1 diced jalapeño for a fresh, spicy bite.
• Use chipotle powder or smoked paprika for a deep, smoky heat.

6. Fun Add-Ins for More Cheeseburger Flavor

• Chopped Pickles or Relish – Adds a tangy cheeseburger taste.
• Diced Tomatoes – For a juicy, fresh element.
• Fried Onions or Caramelized Onions – Adds a sweet, crispy contrast.
• Mushrooms – Finely chopped mushrooms add moisture and an umami depth.

7. Meatloaf Muffins or Sliders

• Mini Meatloaf Muffins: Shape the mixture into muffin tins and bake for 20–25 minutes.
• Slider-Style: Shape the meat into small patties and serve them on Hawaiian rolls for bite-sized cheeseburger meatloaf sliders.

8. Alternative Cooking Methods

• Slow Cooker: Shape the meatloaf and place it in a slow cooker on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours. Add the glaze in the last hour.
• Air Fryer: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 30–35 minutes, checking the internal temperature.
• Grilled Meatloaf Patties: Shape into burger patties and grill for 4–5 minutes per side for a smoky, flame-grilled version.

9. Serving Ideas for the Full Cheeseburger Experience

• Meatloaf Burger: Slice and serve on brioche buns with lettuce, tomato, and burger sauce.
• Loaded Fries: Crumble leftovers over crispy fries with extra melted cheese and pickles.
• Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb meal, serve meatloaf slices wrapped in butter lettuce with extra bacon and sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make This in Advance?

Yes! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Bake when ready.

What’s the Best Way to Keep Meatloaf Moist?

Adding mayonnaise and cheese helps retain moisture. Also, avoid overcooking and let it rest before slicing.

What Sides Go Well with This Meatloaf?

• Crispy French fries or onion rings
• Mashed potatoes and gravy
• Steamed broccoli or green beans
• Coleslaw or a simple side salad

Conclusion

This Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Remix is juicy, cheesy, smoky, and packed with all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger—but in meatloaf form! It’s a fun and delicious upgrade to traditional meatloaf that’s perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or even a cookout-inspired meal any time of year.

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