Bbq Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe

If you're a fan of juicy cheeseburgers with all the fixings, you're going to love this BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf! Combining the best elements of a bacon cheeseburger—ground beef, crispy bacon, cheddar cheese, and tangy BBQ sauce—this meatloaf takes comfort food to a whole new level. Each slice is packed with smoky bacon, rich cheddar, and a sweet BBQ glaze that makes it a total crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re looking to elevate your weeknight dinner or impress guests with a fun twist on traditional meatloaf, this recipe is guaranteed to hit the spot. Ready to get started? Let’s dive into the details!

this Recipe

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What is BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf?

BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is a creative spin on classic meatloaf that incorporates the flavors of a bacon cheeseburger. It features a mixture of ground beef, crispy bacon, cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, and seasoning, all baked together into a juicy, flavorful loaf. The meatloaf is glazed with BBQ sauce for a sweet and smoky finish, and melted cheese inside gives every slice a gooey cheeseburger surprise. Serve it with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or your favorite sides for a hearty and delicious meal.

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Ingredients List for BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

To make a flavorful BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef (80/20 blend): Provides the perfect balance of flavor and moisture.
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled: Adds a smoky, savory crunch.
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Gives that classic cheeseburger flavor inside the meatloaf.
• 1 small onion, finely diced: Adds sweetness and texture to the meatloaf mixture.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: For a hint of garlic flavor.
• 1 cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatloaf and keeps it tender.
• 2 large eggs: Acts as a binder to hold the meatloaf together.
• ½ cup milk: Adds moisture to the meatloaf mixture.
• ½ cup BBQ sauce (plus extra for topping): Use your favorite BBQ sauce for a sweet, tangy glaze.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Enhances the savory flavor of the meatloaf.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: For added depth of flavor.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Complements the diced onion and rounds out the seasoning.
• 1 teaspoon salt: For seasoning.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a touch of spice.
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional): For garnish.

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Ingredients List for BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf (Optional Toppings and Add-ins)

Want to customize your meatloaf even more? Try these optional add-ins and toppings:

• Pickles: Finely diced pickles in the meatloaf mix add a tangy, burger-like twist.
• Mustard: Add a tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the BBQ sauce for a little extra zing.
• Hot sauce: For those who like it spicy, mix in a bit of hot sauce with the BBQ glaze.
• Extra cheese: Add a layer of cheese on top of the meatloaf during the last 10 minutes of baking for a melty finish.

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Substitutions and Variations

• Ground meat: You can swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken if you want a leaner option. Just be aware that turkey or chicken will cook faster and can be a bit drier, so add an extra tablespoon of milk to keep it moist.
• Bacon alternatives: For a leaner version, use turkey bacon or omit the bacon altogether.
• BBQ sauce: Choose a smoky, sweet BBQ sauce for more depth, or go spicy for extra heat.
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this meatloaf gluten-free.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you’ve gathered all your ingredients, it’s time to start cooking! Follow these simple steps for a delicious BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf.

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How to Cook BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
2. Cook the bacon: Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Transfer the cooked bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain, then crumble it once cooled.
3. Mix the meatloaf: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, diced onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a wooden spoon to mix everything together until well-combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.
4. Shape the meatloaf: Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan and press it down evenly to form a loaf shape. You can also shape the meatloaf by hand and place it on a baking sheet if you prefer a freeform style.
5. Top with BBQ sauce: Spread about ¼ cup of BBQ sauce evenly over the top of the meatloaf, reserving the rest for later. This will create a nice, sticky glaze as it bakes.
6. Bake the meatloaf: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 55-65 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). In the last 10 minutes of baking, brush the remaining BBQ sauce on top for an extra layer of flavor.
7. Let it rest: Once the meatloaf is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute and makes for easier slicing.
8. Serve: Slice the BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf and serve it with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overmixing the meat: Be careful not to overmix the meat mixture, as this can result in a dense, tough meatloaf. Gently mix just until everything is combined.
• Skipping the resting period: Let the meatloaf rest for at least 10 minutes after baking. This helps it firm up and makes it easier to slice.
• Not cooking the bacon enough: Make sure your bacon is crispy before adding it to the meatloaf mixture, as it won't cook much more once inside the meatloaf.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

This BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is already packed with flavor, but you can take it to the next level with the right sides and presentation.

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How to Serve BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

• Classic dinner: Serve slices of meatloaf with mashed potatoes, green beans, or roasted Brussels sprouts for a comforting, hearty meal.
• With burger-style sides: For a fun twist, serve with French fries, sweet potato fries, or onion rings. You can also add pickles, coleslaw, or a side of mac and cheese to channel that classic burger joint vibe.
• Sandwich-style: Slice up the meatloaf and serve it on toasted buns with extra cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomato, and pickles for a meatloaf sandwich that’s a nod to a cheeseburger.

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Presentation Ideas for BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

• Garnish with parsley: Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness.
• Drizzle extra BBQ sauce: Serve the meatloaf with extra BBQ sauce drizzled on top or on the side for dipping.
• Plate with layers: Plate the meatloaf over a bed of mashed potatoes or next to a colorful salad for a more refined presentation.

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BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe Tips

• Make ahead: You can prepare the meatloaf mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator, covered, and bake it when ready to serve.
• Freezing tip: This meatloaf freezes well! After cooking, let it cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. To reheat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake at 350°F until heated through.
• Leftover meatloaf: Leftovers are perfect for sandwiches the next day! Simply reheat a slice and add it to a bun with your favorite burger toppings.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use a different type of meat? Yes! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or a mixture of ground beef and pork for different flavor profiles. Just adjust cooking times as leaner meats may cook faster.
2. Can I make this meatloaf gluten-free? Yes! Simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs in place of regular breadcrumbs.
3. How long can I store leftovers? Leftover meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in the microwave or oven.
4. Can I add veggies to the meatloaf? Yes, finely diced vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms can be added to the meat mixture for extra texture and flavor.
5. What’s the best way to reheat meatloaf? Reheat slices of meatloaf in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or in the microwave until warmed through.

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Conclusion

BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is a fun, flavorful twist on traditional meatloaf, bringing all the smoky, cheesy, and savory flavors of a bacon cheeseburger into a single dish. Perfect for family dinners or weekend gatherings, this meatloaf is sure to impress with its juicy texture and BBQ glaze. Whether you serve it with mashed potatoes or fries, or even turn it into a meatloaf sandwich, each bite is packed with comforting, indulgent flavor. So gather your ingredients, fire up the oven, and enjoy this crowd-pleasing meal tonight!

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