Bbq Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe

Sizzling BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe for Family Dinner

Juicy bbq bacon cheeseburger meatloaf promises a mouthwatering twist on classic comfort food that’ll make dinner feel like a celebration.

Crispy bacon and melted cheese create an irresistible combination inside this hearty dish.

Weeknight meals never looked so deliciously indulgent.

Meat lovers will appreciate the rich, smoky flavors packed into every slice.

Simple ingredients come together to craft a meal that feels both nostalgic and exciting.

Weeknight cooking becomes a breeze with this crowd-pleasing recipe that delivers maximum satisfaction.

Dive in and get ready to become the kitchen hero your family craves.

Variations for BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

  • Keto-Friendly Version: Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour, use sugar-free BBQ sauce, and ensure ground beef is high-fat content for a low-carb alternative.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Swap traditional breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed pork rinds, keeping all other ingredients the same.
  • Vegetarian Adaptation: Substitute ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives like Beyond Meat or lentil-based protein, using vegetarian bacon bits and cheese.
  • Turkey Lean Swap: Use ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter protein option, maintaining the same seasonings and cooking method.

Serving Suggestions for BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

  • Comfort Meal Companion: Pair this hearty meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes that soak up the delicious BBQ sauce.
  • Bright Side Salad: Serve alongside a crisp green salad with tangy vinaigrette to balance the rich, meaty flavors of the dish.
  • Weekend Gathering Platter: Slice meatloaf and arrange on a large platter with extra BBQ sauce drizzled on top, perfect for casual family dinners or game night gatherings.
  • Leftover Magic: Transform cold slices into delicious sandwiches using soft hamburger buns, extra cheese, and a smear of mustard for a quick next-day lunch.

Storage Guidelines for BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

  • Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep refrigerated for 3-4 days.
  • Wrap individual slices or whole meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Label with date.
  • Place slice on microwave-safe plate. Cover with damp paper towel. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking temperature to ensure even warming.
  • Preheat oven to 325F. Place meatloaf slice in baking dish. Add splash of beef broth to prevent drying. Cover with foil. Warm for 15-20 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165F.

FAQs

  • Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey works great as a leaner alternative. Just ensure it reaches the same internal temperature for food safety.

  • How do I know the meatloaf is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature hits 160F (71C). This guarantees the meat is safely cooked through.

  • Is it okay to make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture in advance and refrigerate it, covered, for up to 24 hours before baking. This helps blend the flavors.

  • Can I freeze the meatloaf?

Yes, you can freeze the uncooked meatloaf for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe Benefits

  • Savor Innovative Comfort: Transform classic meatloaf into a mouthwatering BBQ bacon cheeseburger twist that elevates family dinner expectations.
  • Master Quick Preparation: Combine ingredients in one bowl, mix, shape, and bake with minimal kitchen effort and maximum flavor impact.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Protein Power: Packed with protein from ground beef, bacon, and cheese, this dish satisfies hearty appetites and delivers delicious nutrition.
  • Customize with Ease: Experiment with different BBQ sauce varieties or cheese types to match personal taste preferences and keep the recipe exciting.

Ingredients for BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Main Protein:
  • Ground Beef: A rich and flavorful base that provides the primary structure and taste of the meatloaf.
  • Bacon: Crispy and smoky meat that adds depth and a savory crunch to the dish.
  • Cheddar Cheese: Sharp and melty cheese that brings a creamy and tangy element to the meatloaf.
Binding and Texture Ingredients:
  • Breadcrumbs, Eggs: Work together to help bind the meatloaf and create a cohesive, tender texture.
Flavor Enhancers:
  • Onion, Garlic: Aromatic vegetables that provide a robust and complex flavor profile to the meatloaf.
  • Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance and balance the overall taste of the dish.
Topping:
  • BBQ Sauce: A sweet and tangy condiment that adds a delicious glaze and extra flavor to the meatloaf's exterior.

Step-by-Step BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Instructions

Step-by-Step BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Instructions

Step 1: Fire Up the Oven

Crank the oven to a toasty 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius), getting ready for some serious meat magic.

Step 2: Mix the Flavor Explosion

Grab a spacious mixing bowl and toss in:
  • Ground beef
  • Crispy crumbled bacon
  • Shredded cheddar cheese
  • Breadcrumbs
  • Eggs
  • Diced onion
  • Minced garlic
  • Salt
  • Pepper

Use your hands to blend everything together until it’s perfectly combined and looking irresistible.

Step 3: Shape the Meaty Masterpiece

Mold the mixture into a gorgeous loaf shape, making sure it’s compact and smooth.

Transfer the loaf into a baking dish, giving it plenty of room to cook evenly.

Step 4: Slather on the Saucy Goodness

Generously coat the top of the meatloaf with tangy BBQ sauce, creating a glossy, mouthwatering glaze that’ll make everyone’s stomach growl.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Slide the baking dish into the preheated oven and let it cook for 55-60 minutes.

Check that the internal temperature hits 160 degrees Fahrenheit (71 degrees Celsius) to ensure it’s fully cooked.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes after removing from the oven.

This helps the juices redistribute, making every slice incredibly moist and delicious.

Slice and serve to hungry friends and family.

Pro Tips for BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe

  • Crisp the bacon before mixing into the meatloaf for maximum flavor and crunch, ensuring each bite delivers a smoky punch.
  • Use a meat thermometer to accurately check the internal temperature, guaranteeing perfectly cooked meatloaf that's juicy and safe to eat.
  • Apply BBQ sauce in two stages – half mixed into the meat and half brushed on top for a deeper, caramelized flavor profile.
  • Prepare the meatloaf mixture a day ahead and refrigerate to allow flavors to meld, enhancing overall taste and texture.
  • Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds for a keto-friendly version without sacrificing the classic meatloaf experience.
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Bbq Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe

Bbq Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe


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4.6 from 13 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Mouthwatering BBQ bacon cheeseburger meatloaf combines classic comfort food with grilled burger flavors. Juicy ground beef, crispy bacon, and melted cheese create a hearty meal that satisfies savory cravings with each delicious slice.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 2 pounds ground beef
  • 8 ounces (1 cup) bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded

Binding and Moisture:

  • 1/2 cup bread crumbs
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup BBQ sauce

Aromatics and Seasoning:

  • 1/2 cup onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Blend ground beef with crispy bacon bits, sharp cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, whisked eggs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a spacious mixing bowl until thoroughly incorporated.
  2. Carefully mold the meat mixture into a compact, uniform loaf shape, ensuring even distribution of ingredients.
  3. Transfer the formed loaf to a sturdy baking dish, positioning it centrally for consistent heat circulation.
  4. Generously slather the top surface with tangy BBQ sauce, creating a glossy and flavorful coating.
  5. Place the prepared meatloaf in a preheated oven at 350F (175C), allowing it to roast for approximately 55-60 minutes.
  6. Verify doneness by checking the internal temperature, which should reach 160F (71C) to ensure thorough cooking.
  7. Remove from oven and let the meatloaf rest undisturbed for 10 minutes, allowing juices to redistribute and enhance overall texture.
  8. Slice into hearty portions and serve immediately, garnishing with additional BBQ sauce if desired.

Notes

  • Customize the BBQ sauce to match your flavor preference by mixing different brands or adding a personal touch like hot sauce or honey.
  • Swap ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter or vegetarian version of the meatloaf.
  • Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed pork rinds to make the recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
  • Enhance moisture by adding grated zucchini or finely chopped mushrooms to the meat mixture, which also boosts nutritional value without compromising the rich flavor profile.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 420 kcal
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 650 mg
  • Fat: 28 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
  • Trans Fat: 1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 10 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Cholesterol: 120 mg
Lucas Bennett

Lucas Bennett

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Developing single-serving recipes with a rustic, seasonal twist.
  • Crafting engaging food insights that connect with readers.
  • Developing content that educates readers on healthy baking alternatives.
  • Integrating local ingredients into accessible home cooking.​

Education

Blue Ridge Community College – Certificate in Culinary Arts
Focused on seasonal cooking, sustainable kitchen practices, and farm-to-table techniques.

Appalachian State University – B.A. in English
Built critical thinking and analysis through diverse texts. Guided by faculty, it prepares graduates for publishing and more.


Growing up in the rolling hills of North Carolina, Lucas learned early that some of life’s best memories start around a kitchen table. After studying English at Appalachian State University and honing his culinary skills at Blue Ridge Community College, he dreamed of blending storytelling with rustic, seasonal cooking, and The Scrumptious Pumpkin was born.
Lucas focuses on easy, single-serving recipes that turn fresh, local ingredients into something special. His style is simple, heartfelt, and rooted in the beauty of the seasons. When he’s not testing a new dish, you’ll probably find him hiking in the Blue Ridge Mountains, browsing farmers’ markets, or scribbling food stories in a notebook.

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