BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is a bold, flavorful twist on a classic comfort food. Loaded with cheddar cheese, smoky bacon, and a tangy BBQ glaze, this meatloaf delivers all the satisfaction of a cheeseburger in a hearty, oven-baked loaf. It’s easy to prepare, crowd-pleasing, and perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This meatloaf brings together all the indulgent elements of a cheeseburger—beef, cheese, bacon, and BBQ sauce—into one comforting dish. The blend of beef and pork creates a juicy texture, while cheddar cheese and bacon add richness and depth. It’s simple to make, holds together beautifully, and pairs well with a variety of sides, from mashed potatoes to grilled vegetables.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1/2 lb ground pork

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce

• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 1/4 cup chopped cooked bacon

• 1 egg

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   Line a baking dish or loaf pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it for easy cleanup.

2. Mix the Meatloaf:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, BBQ sauce, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped cooked bacon, egg, salt, and pepper.
   Mix thoroughly using your hands or a large spoon until all ingredients are fully incorporated.

3. Shape and Bake:
   Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared baking dish.
   Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).

4. Serve:
   Remove the meatloaf from the oven and allow it to rest for about 5 minutes before slicing.
   Serve with additional BBQ sauce on the side, if desired.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 6

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 45–50 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture for a kick.

• Cheese Options: Swap cheddar for pepper jack, Monterey Jack, or smoked gouda for a different flavor profile.

• Topping Twist: Spread extra BBQ sauce or a thin layer of ketchup over the top before baking for a sticky glaze.

• Stuffed Meatloaf: Create a cheese-stuffed center for an extra surprise.

• Breadcrumb Substitutes: Use crushed crackers or oats in place of breadcrumbs if preferred.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

• Reheating: Reheat individual slices in the microwave or warm the whole loaf in a 300°F (150°C) oven until heated through.

• Freezing: Freeze cooked and cooled meatloaf slices in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use only ground beef?

Yes, you can use only ground beef, but the mix of beef and pork provides a juicier texture and richer flavor.

What kind of BBQ sauce works best?

Any variety works, but a smoky or sweet BBQ sauce pairs particularly well with the bacon and cheese.

Can I make this meatloaf in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture ahead and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

How do I prevent the meatloaf from falling apart?

Make sure to mix thoroughly and allow it to rest before slicing, which helps it hold its shape.

Is it necessary to use breadcrumbs?

Breadcrumbs help bind the mixture and give the meatloaf structure. You can substitute with oats or crushed crackers if needed.

Can I cook this meatloaf on a baking sheet instead of in a loaf pan?

Yes, baking it free-form on a sheet pan works well and allows more surface area to develop a crust.

What sides go well with this dish?

Mashed potatoes, coleslaw, roasted vegetables, or baked beans all pair wonderfully with this meatloaf.

How do I know when the meatloaf is done?

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the center reaches 160°F (70°C).

Can I freeze the meatloaf before baking?

Yes, assemble the meatloaf, wrap it tightly, and freeze it raw. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

How can I make it healthier?

Use lean meat, reduce the cheese and bacon, or swap BBQ sauce for a lower-sugar version.

Conclusion

BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is the ultimate comfort food mash-up—juicy, cheesy, and loaded with smoky flavor. It’s a hearty, satisfying meal that’s easy to make and guaranteed to please a crowd. Whether served on a weeknight or as part of a weekend feast, this meatloaf turns a classic into something truly unforgettable.

BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

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• Author: Olivia
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45–50 minutes
• Total Time: 0 hours
• Yield: 6 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf combines everything you love about a classic bacon cheeseburger—juicy ground beef and pork, smoky bacon, melty cheddar, and tangy BBQ sauce—all baked into a hearty, flavor-packed meatloaf. It’s the perfect comfort food twist on a family dinner staple!

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Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1/2 lb ground pork

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (plus more for serving)

• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 1/4 cup chopped cooked bacon

• 1 egg

• Salt and pepper, to taste

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Instructions

• Preheat Oven:
  Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

• Mix the Meatloaf:
  In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, BBQ sauce, cheddar cheese, bacon, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined—don’t overwork the meat.

• Shape and Bake:
  Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place in the prepared baking dish. Bake for 45–50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).

• Rest and Serve:
  Let the meatloaf rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Serve with extra BBQ sauce for a delicious finishing touch.

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Notes

• Use smoked cheddar for a deeper BBQ flavor.

• Add chopped pickles or a drizzle of mustard to give it that full cheeseburger vibe.

• Leftovers make amazing sandwiches the next day!