Cheeseburger Meatloaf: Comfort Food with a Tasty Twist

Hi I'm Stacy

Everyday Culinary Delights👩‍🍳

Posted on 8 February 2026

As I set my sights on dinner, a light bulb moment struck—why choose between a cheeseburger and meatloaf when I can have both? Enter my Cheeseburger Meatloaf with Bacon and Ketchup Glaze, a delightful creation that combines the best of two comfort-food worlds. With juicy ground beef, sharp cheddar, and crunchy bacon all melded into one hearty dish, this recipe checks off the boxes for both flavor and nostalgia. Plus, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or special family gatherings, making it a versatile hero for your dinner table. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal or an impressive centerpiece, this fusion will surely tantalize your taste buds. Are you ready to transform your dinner routine? Let’s dive into this delicious adventure!

Why is This Meatloaf a Must-Try?

Delicious Fusion: Combining the classic flavors of a cheeseburger and meatloaf, this recipe provides an exciting twist that will please everyone at your table.

Simple Ingredients: With familiar pantry staples like ground beef, cheddar, and bacon, you can bring this dish to life without a fuss.

Weeknight Winner: Perfectly suited for busy evenings, this meatloaf can be prepped quickly and baked while you unwind.

Crowd Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish offers comfort and satisfaction that everyone will appreciate. For even more hearty options, try Onion Soup Meatloaf as another favorite choice!

Versatile Pairings: Serve with classic sides like mashed potatoes or a fresh salad for a balanced meal that feels indulgent yet wholesome.

Cheeseburger Meatloaf Ingredients

For the Meatloaf

Ground Beef – the primary protein source that gives richness; opt for lean to reduce grease.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese – delivers a robust and creamy flavor; mozzarella can be a milder substitute if desired.
Bacon – adds a savory crunch and depth; turkey bacon is a great lighter alternative.
Breadcrumbs – aids in binding the meatloaf; try gluten-free options if necessary.
Egg – acts as a moisture-binding agent, ensuring a tender loaf; a flax egg works well for a vegan touch.
Onion – enhances the flavor profile; sauté until sweet for best results.
Garlic – adds aromatic depth; fresh chopped garlic can elevate the taste.

For the Glaze

Ketchup – creates a sweet and tangy topping; you can swap it for BBQ sauce for a smokier finish.
Additional Seasonings – customize with favorites like black pepper or Worcestershire sauce for added zest.

Remarkably, when you bring these ingredients together, you’ll create a mouthwatering Cheeseburger Meatloaf that deserves a spot on your dinner table!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your Cheeseburger Meatloaf bakes evenly from the moment it goes in. While the oven is heating up, you can gather all your ingredients and prepare your baking dish by lightly greasing it to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, sharp cheddar cheese, chopped bacon, sautéed onion, minced garlic, egg, and your chosen seasonings. Use your hands or a spatula to mix everything until just combined, being careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough. The mixture should be moist but hold together.

Step 3: Shape the Meatloaf
Transfer the meat mixture into your greased baking dish, shaping it into a loaf. Aim for a uniform shape that’s about 2-3 inches high for even cooking. Once shaped, make sure to leave space around the sides of the meatloaf for proper heat circulation, which helps it cook thoroughly and evenly.

Step 4: Prepare the Glaze
In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup with any additional seasonings you like for the glaze, such as black pepper or Worcestershire sauce. Once combined, spread this mixture evenly over the top of the meatloaf using a spatula. This glaze not only adds flavor but also creates a beautiful, caramelized layer as it bakes.

Step 5: Bake the Meatloaf
Place the Cheeseburger Meatloaf in your preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour. You’ll know it’s done when the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C) on a meat thermometer. During baking, the edges should begin to brown, and the glaze will become shiny and appetizing.

Step 6: Rest Before Slicing
Once cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, making for a more flavorful and juicy Cheeseburger Meatloaf. While it rests, you can prepare any sides you wish to serve.

Step 7: Slice and Serve
After resting, gently slice the meatloaf into thick pieces and serve warm. You can accompany it with classic sides like mashed potatoes or a fresh salad. Enjoy the cozy flavors of your Cheeseburger Meatloaf, knowing it’s a satisfying meal that will surely please everyone at the table!

How to Store and Freeze Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Fridge: Store leftover cheeseburger meatloaf in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps the meatloaf fresh while preventing it from drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the cooled meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. This helps to preserve the flavors and textures.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until heated through. This method ensures your meatloaf remains juicy and delicious.

Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare the meatloaf mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking. This makes dinner on busy nights a breeze!

Make Ahead Options

These Cheeseburger Meatloaf delights are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the meat mixture and shape your meatloaf up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Additionally, if you have leftovers, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for later enjoyment. To maintain quality, it’s key to let the meatloaf rest at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking if it’s been refrigerated, which helps it cook evenly. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, bake the meatloaf directly from the fridge or thawed from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed. You’ll have a warm, hearty dish that’s just as delicious, saving you time on busy weeknights!

What to Serve with Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Elevate your dinner experience by pairing this hearty meatloaf with perfect side dishes that complement its rich flavors.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery texture balances the robust meatloaf, creating a comforting plate that’s hard to resist.
Fresh Green Salad: A light, crisp salad with a zesty vinaigrette refreshes your palate and adds a vibrant contrast to the hearty meatloaf.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned carrots, Brussels sprouts, or zucchini add a wonderful caramelized flavor and a textural crunch, enhancing the meal.
Baked Mac and Cheese: Creamy, cheesy pasta always brings joy to the table and makes for a delightful, indulgent pairing with the meatloaf.
Garlic Bread: This classic favorite provides a crunchy, buttery bite that complements the moisture of the meatloaf beautifully.
Coleslaw: A tangy, crunchy coleslaw brings a fresh element that cuts through the richness, making each bite a balanced delight.
Pickles: Adding a pickle or two brings a tart crunch that mirrors the cheeseburger inspiration and brightens the flavors.
Homemade Biscuits: Soft, flaky biscuits can soak up any juices left on the plate, adding a comforting touch to this classic dish.
Iced Tea or Lemonade: Quench your thirst with a refreshing beverage like iced tea or lemonade, perfectly complementing the comforting tones of your meal.

Cheeseburger Meatloaf: Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with this delicious recipe and make it your own!

Turkey Alternative: Swap ground beef for turkey or chicken for a leaner, yet still flavorful, meatloaf.
Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy kick or mozzarella for a milder flavor.
Bacon Substitutes: Use turkey bacon for a lighter option, or try diced ham for a different meaty experience.
Add Some Heat: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the meat mixture for a spicy surprise on your plate.
Veggie Boost: Fold in finely chopped bell peppers or grated zucchini for added nutrition and moisture, turning your meatloaf into a hearty veggie-boosted dish.
Glaze Variations: For a different flavor profile, replace ketchup with BBQ sauce or a homemade honey mustard glaze.
Pickle Perk: Mix in diced pickles or relish for that tangy, classic cheeseburger zing! This small addition brings nostalgia straight to the table.

For more comforting flavors, you might also enjoy our Onion Soup Meatloaf, which offers a delightful twist with its savory profile. Enjoy making your Cheeseburger Meatloaf a truly personalized creation!

Expert Tips for Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Use Lean Beef: Opt for lean ground beef to reduce excess grease, which helps in achieving a moist but not overly fatty cheeseburger meatloaf.
Don’t Overmix: Mix the ingredients just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense meatloaf; you want it tender and juicy!
Resting Time: Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes after baking. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring every slice is flavorful and moist.
Glaze Variations: Feel free to customize the ketchup glaze. Adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce can enhance flavor without overpowering the dish.
Use a Thermometer: Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer, aiming for 160°F (70°C). This ensures your cheeseburger meatloaf is safely cooked while remaining juicy.
Batch Cooking: Consider making two meatloaves at once, as this dish freezes exceptionally well. You’ll have an effortless meal ready for another day, saving you time and effort!

Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right ground beef?
Absolutely! For this Cheeseburger Meatloaf, I recommend using lean ground beef (around 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio) to strike a balance between flavor and moisture without being overly greasy. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can also use lean turkey or chicken.

What’s the best way to store leftover meatloaf?
You can store any leftover Cheeseburger Meatloaf in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Making sure it’s well-sealed will help keep the meatloaf moist and prevent it from drying out.

Can I freeze Cheeseburger Meatloaf and how?
Very! To freeze, let the meatloaf cool completely after baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes until warmed throughout.

What if my meatloaf doesn’t hold its shape?
If your Cheeseburger Meatloaf is falling apart, it might be due to too much moisture or not enough binder (like breadcrumbs or eggs). Ensure your ingredients are well-measured and mixed just until combined to maintain that perfect loaf structure. If it still seems too loose, try adding a bit more breadcrumbs.

Can I make a modification for dietary allergies?
Absolutely! For gluten-free options, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure your ketchup is free of gluten. You can also use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water) to replace the egg for a vegan version, which works great as a binder!

How long do I need to let the meatloaf rest before slicing?
Letting the Cheeseburger Meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes post-baking is key! This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring that each slice is tender and juicy. It helps avoid the loaf falling apart when you cut into it!