If you love cheeseburgers, crave crispy bacon, and grew up on homestyle meatloaf, this recipe is about to become your new favorite dinner. Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf combines everything we adore about a loaded burger—juicy beef, smoky bacon, sharp cheddar, and tangy ketchup—baked into one rich, satisfying loaf that slices beautifully and pleases every crowd.
This isn’t just meatloaf.
This is comfort food taken to the next level.
Why Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Is So Popular
Bacon cheeseburger meatloaf works because it blends familiar flavors with irresistible textures:
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🥩 Juicy, well-seasoned ground beef
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🥓 Crispy bacon in every bite
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🧀 Melted sharp cheddar throughout
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🍅 A glossy, tangy ketchup glaze on top
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🔥 Baked to perfection, not greasy or dry
It’s a family dinner winner, a potluck favorite, and a make-ahead lifesaver for busy weeks.
What Makes This Meatloaf Different?
Unlike traditional meatloaf, this version borrows from the classic American cheeseburger:
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Breadcrumbs replace buns
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Bacon replaces bland fillers
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Cheddar replaces plain seasoning
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Ketchup glaze replaces gravy
The result is bold, savory, and incredibly comforting.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Meatloaf Base
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1½ lbs ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
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8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
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1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
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1 cup breadcrumbs
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1 medium onion, finely chopped
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2 large eggs
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½ cup milk
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1 teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
Cheeseburger Glaze
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½ cup ketchup
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2 tablespoons brown sugar
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1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
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1 teaspoon yellow mustard (optional but recommended)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
Cook bacon until crispy. Drain well and crumble once cooled. Set aside.