Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf takes the classic flavors of a juicy cheeseburger and transforms them into a hearty and satisfying meatloaf. With savory ground beef, crispy bacon, melted cheddar cheese, and a tangy topping, this recipe is a delicious twist on a beloved favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting a casual gathering, this meatloaf is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the culinary journey of creating this irresistible comfort food!
Ingredients:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 1/2 lbs ground beef
- 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup mustard
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 eggs, beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp mustard
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked and crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, bread crumbs, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, chopped onion, minced garlic, beaten eggs, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Form the Meatloaf:
- Transfer the meatloaf mixture into the prepared loaf pan, pressing it down gently and shaping it into a loaf shape.
4. Make the Topping:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, mustard, and brown sugar to make the topping glaze.
5. Add the Topping:
- Spread the topping glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
6. Bake:
- Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 60-75 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the top is golden brown.
7. Rest and Serve:
- Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Bacon Tips: For extra crispy bacon, cook it until it’s just shy of being fully crispy before crumbling it into the meatloaf mixture.
- Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheese varieties such as pepper jack, Swiss, or blue cheese for a unique flavor twist.
- Breadcrumbs Substitute: You can use crushed crackers or oats as a substitute for bread crumbs if desired.
- Customize Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasonings according to your taste preferences. Add a dash of hot sauce for extra heat or herbs like parsley or oregano for added flavor.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto:
- Bread Crumbs Substitute: Replace the bread crumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds to make it keto-friendly.
- Sweetener Substitute: Use a keto-friendly sweetener like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener in place of brown sugar in the topping glaze.
- Condiment Choices: Opt for sugar-free ketchup and mustard to reduce the carb content of the meatloaf.
Low-Carb:
- Portion Control: Enjoy smaller portions of the meatloaf to keep the carb count low while still savoring the delicious flavors.
- Vegetable Additions: Incorporate low-carb vegetables like diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach into the meatloaf mixture for added nutrition and texture.
- Glaze Modification: Reduce the amount of brown sugar or omit it altogether from the topping glaze for a lower-carb option.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef? A: Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef. Just be sure to adjust the seasonings to taste.
Q: Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time? A: Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture and topping glaze in advance and refrigerate them separately. When ready to bake, assemble the meatloaf and proceed with baking as directed.
Q: How do I know when the meatloaf is done cooking? A: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches 160°F (71°C) before removing it from the oven.
Q: Can I freeze leftover meatloaf? A: Yes, leftover meatloaf can be wrapped tightly and frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Q: What side dishes pair well with bacon cheeseburger meatloaf? A: Classic side dishes like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad make excellent accompaniments to this hearty meatloaf.
Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf offers all the comforting flavors of a classic cheeseburger in a convenient and satisfying meatloaf form. With its savory blend of ground beef, crispy bacon, melted cheese, and tangy topping, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re following a keto, low-carb, or traditional diet, this versatile recipe can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. So why not treat yourself and your loved ones to a hearty and delicious meal with this bacon cheeseburger meatloaf recipe?
